alternator is magnetic

[markcle]

my battery keeps dying and voltage w/wo engine running is same: 12.5v across battery leads. this makes me think alt is the problem BUT a screwdriver is pulled magnetically to back of alt when running so this means alt is generating electricity-no?Or does it mean no ac/dc conversion? car is 1994 saturn sw2 (no airconditioner) THANKS

[drew]

Sounds like you have a hot ignition wire going to your battery. This would cause current to run through your rotor, making a magnetic field along your alternator. Check your wiring and the ignition line (it should be marked with an 'I' on your plug.