Ya , just like that . I was thinking " man , with a spark like that Ruth should fire right up". Then I realized my mistake and corrected it . Now she's got a draw and the "gen" light is on . Please help O wise ones!!!!!

She still runs

Probably fried the diode trio in the alt.

X2

Most gm alternators are the same right? I got a couple laying around

Typically when dealing with anything electronic when you reverse the polarity of the circuit the only thing you can hurt are doides and that is because those control the flow of power through a circuit in a certain direction. Usually when to much power is being pushed through them they burn up. So like what the others said you probably just burnt up your altenators diodes.

Great I know what direction to look now. Thank you so much for taking the time to reply to such simple questions with such simple answers.

Here is an over simplified explanation. There are different families of GM alternators. The plug on the side is unique to each family. Within a family, there are different amperage capabilities. The housings can also be clocked between the front and back halves to accommodate different mounting. Bottom line, you have one laying around that will plug in it will work, but it may be less amperage than the original. Too much won't hurt, it is actually a benefit.

What kind of vehicle?
You may have burned up the fusible link to the voltage regulator.

67 cutlassupreme holidaycoupe 2dr, 330, 2spdhydromatic,