Classic Mustang - mechanical help

Really enjoying the site so far, reading the posts and checking out the pics and links. I've already learned quite a bit, though I'll be asking for all sorts of mechanical help as I go along. Carpenter by trade, I have good problem solving skills but my mechanical skills and knowledge leave a bit to be desired. I'm chomping at the bit to get started and have my new baby driveable this summer!

All right, so I put a fresh battery in the '70 convertible that I picked up the other day and it fires right up, though not driveable because of brake issues. After a couple of days of turning the engine over, poof, nothing. Not a whir, click or clatter. She starts right up with a jump and all the electrical also works. Is this a case of a non-functioning alternator not re-charging the battery as it runs? If it needs replacing, what else should be replaced? wiring harness? voltage regulator? Also, looking for links to parts in the NE region if anyone has any to share.

I appreciate the help, bear with me! fair winds and tides.....steve

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Re: mechanical help It could certainly be the alternator, take it into a good shop and have it tested (Pep Boys, Autozone, place like that usually test for free). I suppose it...	Dan O'Reilly danoreilly
Re: mechanical help I think you have something that is running the battery down.... if all you have done is start the car a few times over the last few days, the battery would not...	Walt Boeninger
Re: mechanical help My gut feeling is something is draining the battery when the engine is off. If it was just a case of the alternator not charging, the battery would most likely...	Flick01@... flick12003
Re: mechanical help Hello people , I believe Steve said he had an Alternator on Car with a dead Battery ?? If I remember it , an alternator does not require a Regulator , NOR...	Phillipp Steffon fill3steff
Re: mechanical help Phillipp, All alternators need a regulator. Some are internal but the older ones are external. An alternator needs to be running at a high idle to recharge the...	Paul Stephens pauls1950
Re: mechanical help Thank you all so much for the info and advice! I am on the case with a buddy, a voltage meter and a large measure of patience. I'll keep you posted on the...	fairtidez
Re: mechanical help Hello Paul; Say what you wish The Poster was speaking of a FORD with a Alternator of year that I believe used an INTERNAL Regulator !!!!!!, Phil ...	Phillipp Steffon fill3steff