My alternator had been acting up for a couple of weeks and I finally
got around to replacing it (cheers to me I actually did it myself -
not a big deal to you handy folks but its a big leap for me).

Anyway I was also having a problem with my brake lights, which I think
may just be related to the low voltage the old alternator was putting
out. Here is what I"m getting with the engine running:

New alternator: 14.4v
Tailights: 12.75v
Reverse Lights: 12.2v
Brake lights: 9.3v

The brake lights seem real low to me. Is this normal? Is there any
point I can check the load other than the bulb? I had a mild fire in
the engine compartment and I'm worried the wires are damaged.

Chris