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General Information => Troubleshooting => Topic started by: pvc4life on May 01, 2013, 03:04:17 pm

Title: Electrical Issue, where to start...
Post by: pvc4life on May 01, 2013, 03:04:17 pm
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!
Title: Re: Electrical Issue, where to start...
Post by: TylerDurden on May 01, 2013, 08:03:32 pm
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?
Title: Re: Electrical Issue, where to start...
Post by: 745 turbogreasel on May 02, 2013, 12:18:51 am
see if there is a loose wire going into your battery.
Title: Re: Electrical Issue, where to start...
Post by: fatmobile on May 02, 2013, 09:32:10 pm
Does the x relay run all of that stuff?
Title: Re: Electrical Issue, where to start...
Post by: the caveman on May 03, 2013, 07:18:46 am
I would look at the X [or 75] relay and the electrical part of the ignition switch
Title: Re: Re: Electrical Issue, where to start...
Post by: wolf_walker on May 03, 2013, 07:56:40 am
Dodgy battery terminal connection can do that, bad grounds too. Check basics first.

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Title: Re: Electrical Issue, where to start...
Post by: pvc4life on May 03, 2013, 08:45:27 am
I will check that relay this weekend. Battery had a good ground and battery and alternator checked out fine.