Electrical Nightmare

[SkURTnDSM92T]

Okay guys, this is a problem I have had for a very long time. My charging system works properly, so the car runs fine electrically. However, I have lost a number of accessories and it is getting to be an issue.

I originally had some problems with my charging system. At this time, my power door locks, interior lighting, and head unit all stopped working. I assumed it was because of my charging issues, because I read in my Haynes that is the B+ alt terminal is not working properly, it can render some accessories inoperable. When i fixed the charging issue, my accesories are still shot.

Recently, my headlights also stopped working. They just turned off...

I figured there is a short somewhere or something because I have checked a lot of fuses...If you guys can give me any more ideas that would be great. This is an issue I really need to fix.

 

[theSicKness]

My friend had the same problem you did..Turned out he had some leaky compaciters on his ecu.


Jesse

 

[luv2rallye]

First check ALL fuses. When you say things stop working do they blow a fuse or dim or just quit on their own? Will they then work when you do what?
Do you read >11.5 VDC at battery with engine off and headlights, fan, and radio on? If not, bad battery (or maybe short).
Do you read 14.0-15.5 VDC AND <0.5 VAC at battery when idling? If not, alternator still isn't working correctly [or battery is bad or you have a large short. (>0.5 VAC would be bad alternator.)].
Battery can only be tested under load. If suspect short, disconnect battery and test it under at least a 10A load (eg. headlights). An auto store usually will test the battery for free with a real battery tester.
Alternator can only be properly tested at a place that repairs alts and starters. Auto stores only test for go/no go DC voltage.
For a short see: http://www.dsmtuners.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1496998#post1496998. For fast test if short use the light in series with battery test mentioned there.

 

[SkURTnDSM92T]

There is no problem with the charging system at all.

The accessories dont blow fuses, they just stop working all together.

Is there any other fuses I should check besides the ones in the driver side kickpanel and the ones on the passenger side under the hood?

I will follow that thread and check for a short

 

[ExtremeDSM91]

its sounds like your main fusible link fuse. the fuse box by the air filter, its the one sticking up at the corner, i think it is a 60. same thing happened on my car.
Most accessories like windows and door locks stop working, but your car will still crank and start.

BTW: it may look good through the inspection window (mine did), but if you pull it out and check it with a multimeter i bet its bad

 

[SkURTnDSM92T]

Yeah my car popped this fuse a few times. Its an 80A in 1G's. When I re-wired my alternator wiring, it stopped popping. Its been replaced...maybe I am missing something or should get a new one anyway..