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Old 09-05-2007
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Yes, shutting the key before the engine (and alternator) is off can cause things to fry. Some alternators are internally protected against that, most are not. What effect it would have on other electronics, would vary. You might not have blown the remote monitor panel--but blowing the alternator might make it look that way.

A "Zap Stop" (which is really just a special $2 diode that has been reasonably marked up three times and consumer packed to sell for $25) is good protection if you aren't sure about whether an alternator can protect itself.

Taking the alternator to an automotive shop for free testing is a good idea, most of the chains can test it out for you on the spot. The fun part comes if it is bad and they ask "What model car or truck did this come out of?"
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