I bought an 86 se a week ago. Yesterday it wouldnt hold a charge so today I put in a new alternator because I figured that would solve the problem. Of course it didnt. I tried starting it but it would not start. I gave it a jump start from another car and it started but it goes off after about 30 seconds. I have no idea what else could be the problem. Input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

 

Ehh how did you know that the battery isn't holding charge? Have you had the battery tested? Did you have the altnator tested? ALso check your AFM for loose connection and any loose hose. Hope this helps

 

trace the small lead that goes into the back of the alternator and make sure it's not broken anywhere.

 

Also check the grounds.

 

if you don't have a the tools to test your battery/alternator, you should just take them out and run them to autozone or somewhere that will test them for free....then you can be positive as to what the problem is and go from there.

good luck!