1989 Volvo 240 DL Alternator and Oil Pressure Switch

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Hi!

****************EDIT** oil switch issue resolved!!*******************

So my girlfriend has a 1989 Volvo 240 DL. She started it and drove it about 50 yards before it died last night.

I tried jumping it this morning and very stupidly reversely connected the jumper cables (red tape around the negative terminal on her battery and I very stupidly assumed it was the positive without double checking...) for just a moment which fried a thin black wire and disconnected it from the engine. I corrected the cables and the car started fine, and after checking the battery it is good to go.

Took the car to a Meinke and was told the wire was for the oil pressure to determine if oil is being sucked into the engine. I apparently need a new connector (switch?) and for the wire to be soldered/reconnected.

I was told the oil pressure issue would be $47 for the new part + labor. This, plus a new alternator + labor for that would be about $380 TOTAL.

The guy told me she needs a new alternator. But strangely, the alternator light is not lit up when the car is on (but is when the key is turned one turn like it should be). Doesn't this mean the alternator is charging correctly? So is a new one really needed? I'm confused now

Now I am wondering....I am seeing alternators online for about $80 or so, used. Would it be worth it to get one and replace it myself? Also maybe worth it to try and fix the oil pressure connection myself? I've never worked on cars but I see some guides online and have a couple friends who are relatively knowledgeable about working on cars but are not mechanics.

Just wanted some opinions before we go and spend almost $400 on this car...

Thank you so much!!!