Could be bad out of the box, but first check for corroded or loose wiring, Also check the alternator.
Unplug the connector from the back of the alt and jump the "F" terminal on the alt to the battery positive. Go to a fast idle and measure the alt output voltage, it should be up to about 16 volts at the alt and at the battery if the alt is good.
No, don't short anything to ground with a voltage regulator. Not done on alternator systems for any reason.
George
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