My 1999 Ford Escort Station Wagon keeps going through alternators, what is the likely culprit?

When I first bought the car, the only thing amiss was the windshield wipers would once in a blue moon come on once, then turn back off. Once I moved, and started driving more, I had one alternator go out. After resurfacing the inside, it worked for a good two or three months. Then I bought a brand new one, and that lasted four months, then went out again. Once I put a new one in, it went out once again in less than 24 hours. Also, after the increased driving, sometimes the windshield wipers would come on frequently, for longer periods, but not every time it was driven.

We checked the dimmer/blinker/windshield wiper switch, and it looks brand new. Sometimes the lighting on the radio goes in and out, but stays bright with high beams on.

When the alternator started going on the first brand new one, the battery light came on and off, but I was able to drive my 45 mile round trip, then 15 miles back into town the next day, before it went out for good. The second one went after sitting and idling for a good five or so minutes.

I'm thinking there's some sort of electrical short somewhere, but have no idea where to start.

Sounds like you MAY have a parasitic draw. If you plan on doing this yourself, you need a digital multimeter if you don't already own one. Preferably one that is capable of at least reading 10 amps. It would be much easier to watch a YouTube video on parasitic draw test than me trying to explain it. Search for ericthecarguy parasitic draw test. It will also help you isolate and circuits that may be shorting to ground. Hope this is helpful.