Electrical Problems

DarkProphet

Founding Member
Aug 19, 2002
391
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Quakertown, PA
Hey guys, my car is having some wierd electrical problems. The voltage, water temp, and oil pressure gauges will all jump around a little bit, and when I hit the brake I can notice the gauges moving up a bit (except for the volt meter which moves down a bit). Another wierd thing is that I noticed when turning right that the gauges act up, but when I turn to the left, they seem to go back to where they should. I checked under the dash for rubbing wires on the steering colum and wiring hitting the brake pedal but found none. Im about to take out the brake fuse and see if that fixes the problem. The brake fuse blew a few days ago so Im pretty sure that the problem lies in that area, but im not sure. It seems to be happening wether nor not I hit the brakes though, just worse when I do, and most of the brake circuit isnt hot until you hit the pedal. Where can I find the flasher module (also connected to the brake circuit) and "multi-function switch". Anyone have any ideas?
 
UPDATE:

I took out the fuse for the brake light and it made no difference. Im thinking now it might be that my alternator is starting to go. What are some signs of an alt dying? I tested the battery terminals at 14.83-14.85 volts with the car idling, and 12.93 or so with it off. Could a bad engine ground strap cause this too? I just put the motor in not too long ago and it could have loostened itself a bit.
 
DarkProphet said:
UPDATE:

I took out the fuse for the brake light and it made no difference. Im thinking now it might be that my alternator is starting to go. What are some signs of an alt dying? I tested the battery terminals at 14.83-14.85 volts with the car idling, and 12.93 or so with it off. Could a bad engine ground strap cause this too? I just put the motor in not too long ago and it could have loostened itself a bit.

If you are getting 14 volts with the car idling then the alternator is probably still good. I'd definately check the ground straps.