I'd look for another charred spot where it may have grounded to the frame.
Bill
-----Original Message-----
From: gbasey <gbasey@LINK2000.NET>
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Date: Sunday, April 02, 2000 1:26 PM
Subject: melted alternator wire

>I was driving down the highway when my van ('80 vanagon) lost power and
>died.  The battery didn't have enough power to start the van.  I charged
the
>battery and drove home.  I inspected the alternator wiring and belts and
>found that the alternator wire going the the starter had melted.  Three
>questions:
>
>What could have caused it?
>
>Also what gauge wire is it so I can replace it?
>
>Finally is the supressor condensor necessary?  My alternator doesn't have
>one?
>
>Thanks,
>
>Gary
>