Why is van not getting power to the battery?

Question

My boyfriend has a '85 Ford Econoline van...(I believe that's what it is...) and he got a new alternator put it in but the van still won't start up without getting jumped. What other reasons can there be for the battery not getting power? We were told it could be the voltage regulator...but when looking for the voltage regulator there is an issue...we can't FIND it! The van was running fine until the alternator went (after trying to install a sound system) and then now this problem....any suggestions?

Answer 1

From Autozone.com:



Under hood, passenger side, front side of shock tower, mounted on fenderwell



Is where your voltage regulator probably is.



You could have a bad ground on the engine or the frame, especially if you live someplace humid.

Answer 2

You don't get power TO the battery, you get it FROM the battery.



With the vehicle off, use a voltmeter to see how many volts the battery has. Chances are you need to replace the battery...but not so fast honey... you need to have someone who KNOWS what they are doing install or re-install your sound system components, unless you feel like replacing another alternator and battery. And alot of fords have the voltage regulator on the passenger side fender well, if its not there, its internal in the alternator.

Answer 3

You need the manual for the Ford. Go to your Auto Parts store and ask for the one for the 85 Ford Econoline Van. They will need to know if it is standard shift or automatic, they need to know the year, if it has air conditioning and also 4 or 6 or 8 cylinder engine. That will be the best 20 dollars you spend if you plan on keeping the Van.

Answer 4

sounds like duff battery regulater might be inside alternator get alternator checked might be faulty disconnect sound system then try thats if you havent damaged new alternator

Answer 5

check to see that you put the belts back in. and check and clean the battery connections.