If its not the alternator, what could it be?

Question

My car has died on me a total of 5 times, towed twice and has been to a mechanic 3 times, all in one month. Please help!
After it had been towed the car started up fine again. The machanic couldn't find anything wrong with it. He preformed all the regular tests, the battery, alternator, everything check out okay. I got the same response from others. I had the alternator replaced just today after taking it in to Autozone. Initally I took it in and the tech put it in a machine to test and it passed. He then suggested to put it back into the car and bring the car in to be tested by a computer. It wasn't at optimal reformance, so that is when I bought a new alternator. Though he said it was still good but not good enougn. It died again tonight after replacing the alternator. The thing is- it'll start up again after it sits for awhile. I've noticed that it happens while my lights are on in the evening and early mornings. What could this mean? Could this be an electrical problem?

It's a 1999 Ford Escort...never had any problems until this. The battery checked out okay, componants are clean.

I've done some research about the voltage regulator, but I thought it was actually inside the alternator, figuring it would be a new part without a problem, maybe it's not inside...not so sure at this point.
It turns over, no start. The only thing I can think of is that my e-brake light comes on and off. I had my brake switch replaced 3 weeks ago, my actual brakes done two weeks ago (regular maintenance). This all in between my car dieing. My car initally died before any repair ever happened.

Thanks! I really appreciate the help!!!

Answer 1

Not to be funny,but what kind of car is it(make, year).If it is certain older Chrysler's and some Japanese makes have an external voltage regulator,it could be a lose wire, etc. What does it do/not do? Does it turn over but not start? The problem with the lights could also mean it is the battery is weak,making it seem like the alternator.

Answer 2

I was going to say you got taken advantage of by those mechanics. However, you could replace the Consant Control Relay Module. I am curious did you shut off you lights when you are done using your car? May be you forgot to shut off your lights? or the relay may be responsible for turning on your lights and draining your battery? Good Luck. P.S. I suggest you go to a book store or places like Canadian Tire where they sell mechanic books like cliton or something like that on specific cars which are less than 20 dollars and is very informational and learn about your car. The more you know about your car the better you know what might be causing what ever the problem is causing problems to your car and know what to expect what needs to be worked on when you take your car to a mechanic.

Answer 3

Sounds like a lose connection from the battery to the voltage regulator and on. It could be as simple as a bad battery cable clamp, . Look for simple things, Splices, connections, clamps, etc. Amazing how a simple connection that appears connected but is not.

Answer 4

You may have a bad ground .the 99 alt has an external voltage regulator and u said u replaced the alt, it should have came with a new volt regulator. Have your fuel pressure checked.

Answer 5

i and my husband have had alot of troubles like yours. and as simple s it sounds, you might need a new battery. if your battery is good, check the cables. sometimes they come loose or corroded with acid from the battery.take sand paper and wrap it around the terminal and twist just watch not to let any of it fly up into your eyes.

Answer 6

maybe your voltage regulator is draining power.