When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
You didn't tell us if the old alternator was bad or not?? (assuming it was)
The alternator subject has been covered here many times, and I am one that certainly agrees that having a KNOWN ORIGINAL rebuilt by a reputable, local auto electric shop.
I had mine done several months ago and was well pleased with the job and price-which btw was less than a Chinese unit from a parts store chain.
OK, I am not taking a position one way or another....
You make a good point, though. My "No running with scissors" analogy is to illustrate that harm can be had if not careful. Probing the wire through the insulator is more likely to harm the truck than yourself, but I wouldn't do it for both reasons. I have unplugged the injectors (very carefully with a plastic "stick" I have for purposes such as this), been zapped by 110 VAC countless times, zapped by 240 VAC once (learned not to repeat that one), and have been burned with 600 VDC (luckily just a short across a finger). I would never dissuade anyone from being careful around electricity.
If you don't have the familiarity and the tools to handle it safely - just treat it like it will kill you... because it may just do that if mistreated.
My information says the IDM may produce up to 8 amps, but that would be an extreme... or the tiny wires (small diameter, shielded) wouldn't last long.