Another alternator question

I replaced the generator with a Delco alternator. I have a wire from the starter to the battery terminal on the alt. I have another wire from the
#2 terminal on the alt to the battery terminal on the alt. From what I've read here this is correct. With the engine running if I disconnect the battery the engine dies. I thought doing this was a test of whether the alternator is charging properly. Which is correct?

 

I am not to familiar with the Delco alternater but a word of advice never check the the charging system by removeing the battery terminals if you have any electronic equipment in your Jeep you will have a good chance of burning it out. Check it with a volt meter you should be between 13.5 and 14.5 volts

 

Two wires coming out the connector on the top? If so you need to hook the smaller one up too ( voltage sensing wire) Do a search here, there's a complete discussion somewhere here on how to wire it properly.

 

you want a quick way to test the alt., if it's charging. Take an old butter knife or a thin bladed screwdriver and carefully place it on the back bearing cap of the alt(engine running), if the alt is charging, there is a magnetic field that will draw the blade to the alt cover. This of course will not tell you how much the alt is charging, that will require a multimeter. You should have nearly 14.6 volts at charge or an amp reading of the positive cable should be consistant with the alt. output. ie 80 amp etc. This also depends on the condition of the battery and what it will take. dave