Battery negative cable sparks on hookup

[toothpic125]

2016 Equinox. Pulled engine did timing chain rear main seal. All fixed. Went to hook up negative battery cable and it sparked. Didn't hook up but testing from neg terminal to neg cable I have 12v. Disconnect positive cable at alt. Everything is ok. Can I have short in alt?

 

[RIT333]

To me, it sounds like you have a parasitic load.

 

[toothpic125]

Thanks for the reply. I did have a hood light on. Now that I have battery hooked up I charged it & have 12.9 volt. Tried to start it and it cranks really slow to or three rotation and starter start clicking. Release key and when it goes to run position and starter clicks away until you turn key to off position. Not sure if starter solenoid is bad or if power to the solenoid is staying open??

 

[flynhghr]

Just jump it and drive for 45 minutes or more. The Equinox has an automatic engine starter that can be finicky. However it's much less annoying than the vehicles that kill the engine at a red light...