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I have a similar problem. I have replaced 3 alts now and they keep going bad. Granted the first one I over tightened, but the other two work for about 3 months then the alt starts to squeal when I start the car. I have replaced the battery thinking that maybe it was overworking the alternator but that had no affect either. If there is something I am missing I would appreciate the help.

-Deziner86

jbarrick80 - Sorry lost track of this thread. Next step I can think to do would be to disconnect the battery, and then check for continuity from the charge cable from the alternator to the chassis. There should be no continuity. I doubt that the alternator is shorting.. but if that cable is shorted to ground somewhere.. it might cause havok with the alternator.

Also.. how old is your battery? I once had a battery go so bad it actually became a dead short across one cell.. the result was that it kept killing alternators (granted this wasnt in a MX-3.. but it could still cause problems). Dang battery killed 3 alternators before I thought to get the battery load checked.. replaced the battery and the car hasnt had a problem since.

Now.. the alternator itself.. Where are you getting your alternators? (This could apply to you as well Deziner86)
One thing I have found with electrical components in general.. the cheaper they are.. the more trouble they have. So if your getting the cheapest alternator you can find.. try upgrading to a bit better quality OR take the alternator to a auto electric shop and have it professionally rebuilt. The positive side effect of this will also tell you what went bad in the alternator.

Lastly.. it wouldnt hurt to beef up the ground connections in your engine bay. After adding some additional ground wires.. I noticed that my headlights stopped dimming so dramatically everytime I touched the brake pedal. There are numerous posts on this topic as well.. a bit of research will turn up more posts on this.

Tunes67