Electrical issue with brake lights, radio and headlights.

[974g63t]

Let me start by saying it is a 1997 GST w/ a 3" exhaust, boost gauge, and narrowband(awesome lightshow I know) and HID (plug and play).

Down to the issue: Basically, when I press the brake pedal, turn on my lights, or turn on a blinker, everything will lose power for a split second. It just started doing this within the last week, today being the worst. Today I went to back out of a parking lot and it lost all power, but I turned the key to "off" and started the car back up. THEN I went to the barber shop. When I came out I tried to start my car and there was nothing. I tried a few times and after maybe the third time it started.

Things I've checked:
Ignition fuse, Radio fuse, and fuses for the brake and headlights.

(The boost and narrowband power source for the backlights are out of the cigarette lighter)

Any help is greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance,

Mac

 

[ridelowandslow]

i'm not trying to sound like a smartass here. completely legitimate question. did you check the battery terminals?

 

[Blaze2gDSM]

It's time for a new alternator, these are the common first signs your alt is done.

 

[974g63t]

Ya, I checked the terminals, they were tight and clean. As for the alternator, I had it checked and it was "deemed" good. Could it still be the alternator?

 

[luv2rallye]

Turn on headlights. Then measure voltage at battery first with engine off, then running. Off should be over 12.0V. Running should be over 14.0V.

 

[e30_fiend]

Like stated above, test the voltage off and running. But while you test it running, turn on everything that could draw from the charging system. Turn on a/c, rear defrost, headlights, windshield wipers and radio. This will give you a full duty charge number of the Alternator. The problem I have with the testing at auto parts places is the fact that they just mount it, wrap a belt around it and spin it. If it charges they say its good. Even with a small load like 20amps, it COULD still charge but with more draw from it, it could fail. Do a full load test and report back with your numbers.



Taylor