if you have nothing drawing power (inside lights-door open,clock,etc)you should definitely NOT get a spark when you disconnect/connect a battery cable.yes double check those wires at the alternator as if they are wrong you will have damaged the regulator.also i forgot to mention in my reply to your starting problem that a weak solenoid is another possibility.also when you turn on the key,does the ALT idiot light come on?does it glow when running?