Electrical Issue, where to start...

[pvc4life]

Driving around the 86 TD a few days ago and when turning on the AC I lost all electrical power in the car (no turn signals, lights, radio, fan, etc.). It stayed this way for a bit then came back, then off again later when trying to do anything such as turn on the headlights, fan etc. Cycling the key on and off didn't do anything to fix it.

Any suggestions on where to start other than looking at relays? Any specific relays to check out?

Thanks!

[TylerDurden]

I'd put the ventilation control in the heat position so the AC system is not active before starting, then check the voltage at the battery while running.

If good voltage (~13.5V - 14.2V) at battery while running, alternator is still ok.

With engine off, I'd remove the relay(s? ) mounted on the fan shroud and see if the problem persists. Don't run the engine very long for the test, as removing the relay may interrupt the supply to the radiator fan.

Did the AC actually work in recent memory?

[745 turbogreasel]

see if there is a loose wire going into your battery.

[fatmobile]

Does the x relay run all of that stuff?

[the caveman]

I would look at the X [or 75] relay and the electrical part of the ignition switch

[wolf_walker]

Dodgy battery terminal connection can do that, bad grounds too. Check basics first.

Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 2

[pvc4life]

I will check that relay this weekend. Battery had a good ground and battery and alternator checked out fine.