Hi, I have a 2006 lexus es330. i was replacing the alternator with an aftermarket high output alternator and also upgrading the wiring to the system. after put in the new alternator and connected all the grounds, i was connecting the positive wire from the battery to the positive on the alternator, i accidentally dropped the wire, which caused the wire to hit the chassis and ground. while it was wiggling about it kept shorting until i was able to finally grab it. i connected the wire and started the car, and everyone looks fine. my question is if i caused any long term damage to the electrical system when it shorted? thanks
You should be fine.
But you broke the #1 rule for doing electrical work on your car. ALWAYS ALWAYS disconnect the negative terminal of the battery every time you do any electrical works. It's the one simple way you can prevent accidents like this.
If the negative wire to the battery was also hooked up (which it would kinda have to be for an arc to happen) you are probably ok. Also the car's electronics should be well grounded to the frame in a car as well made as a lexus.
I just hope you know what you are doing with that high output alternator and that you upgraded the battery as well.
