So I tell myself every time i do something stupid like this, "next time I will disconnect the battery".

I was replacing the alternator and bridged the terminals with my wrench.
Plume of smoke rises and I swear.
I replaced the fusible link although I am not sure the gauge is correct.
I now have a fluctuation of power when the car runs.
The headlights and dash lights flicker and the brake light comes on randomly.

Any idea where to start?

Keith

Hi Keith,

I just walked in the door from replacing my alternator.

Your next step is to test the alternator output with a Voltmeter. If it reads 13.5 - 14.5 volts it is OK. If the battery is low it might read 13-13.5. That is all OK.
If it is below 13V, it's not working correctly.

Lights flickering and coming on randomly sounds like a ground wire is burnt or loose.

I swapped out the battery to chassis wire with a 1 gauge and the positive from the battery to the starter also.
The "E" terminal on the alternator was stripped so I switched it to another bolt on the back of the alternator.

Still flickering.

The stock alternator in the car (78 b210) seems to be internally regulated, unlike my 76.
The terminals are labeled B and E and then the T shaped connector.

Of to put on the meter...

Correction: Output if over 12.5 Volts or better @1100 RPM is OK.
Normal (fully charged) voltage is 13.5-15.0.

Mine is putting out 12.8 volts (OK, the battery is low), but the CHARGE light is not going out. Hmmm.