I dont even know where to start with this one. The tell tale light must turn on when the cars ignition key is put to the run position at first. If that light bulb is burnt out the alternator will not charge. It is hooked up in series with the field wire going to the alternator. In my opinion the wrong way to wire it. When I first got my car I had the alternator out several times due to the tell tale light being burnt out. Was never the alternator to begin with. I had the alternator rebuilt a couple of times because of that. What I did learn is that the transpo parts being used to rebuild the alternator were all made in China junk components. I did some research and rebuilt the alternator myself using parts sourced from Europe and made in Europe. That alternator has been in the car for several years now with no issue. I can provide you a list of parts that are needed if you would like. Of course this is for the v8 model. On the four cylinder car just replace with a reclocked Bosch AL49X alternator. I am in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, just across from Detroit. Come and I will rebuild it for you.