Nissan Repair: Brake & Battery Light Flashing - even after new alternator, nissan quest 1998, dc rectifier

Question
Hi,
I have a Nissan Quest 1998 with brake and battery lights flashing continually.  My running lights also flash with the dash lights,however not always.  Voltage was spiking when this was happening.  I have just changed the alternator and the problem is still there.  Sometimes I hear a noise from glove compartment area sounding like an old signal light???  My mechanic also checked the ends? on the batteries, there fine.  Please help!!!!

Answer
Karen,

The alternator has a three-phase direct current rectifier.  That means that the alternator puts out alternating current and the DC rectifier converts it to direct current at around 14 volts at max output.  There are three phases and if the lights are flashing that means that one of the diodes is dead and needs to be replaced.  This is internal to the alternator.  Have the alternator checked since it sounds like the replacement is defective.  Autozone or Checker will do a free electrical check.  Just drive over to one and they wil check it out.