Is Srothfuss Around? Anther electron Guru question (3g).

[rdharper02]

I havnt had a chance to pull codes after my 3g install, nor have I been able to do the rear ground strap. I did through a 4g ground across to the inner fender grnd point to an accessory bracket (i know aluminum doesnt conduct well). The question is this: Have you known anyone to experience a surging effect just from the lack of upgrade on the firewall engine ground? I know I have alot to check right now, but work has been hectic. I'm just trying to narrow this thing down, so i can nail it when I get time. I do have the 4g cable for the firewall grnd, but havnt had the time to lift the car and try to get at the engine bolt. The company that sold the alt is telling me that I should purchase a new battery. I think its B.S. Most likely the ground I lack or the alternator. Please let me know, and thank for all your help.

 

[srothfuss]

Have you known anyone to experience a surging effect just from the lack of upgrade on the firewall engine ground?

In my brief experience, I haven't heard of a surge caused by the 3G swap. My car has all of the factory grounds and then 1 extra 4 guage ground from the inner fender to the block with no issues. Another guy that was on here did his from the strut tower to the intake manifold. Your surge is likely caused from something else.

However, I am not the brightest or smartest guy on the forums when it comes to electrical issues or the Mustang for that matter. This will be my frist modded one so I am just like everyone else, learning as we go.

I'm just trying to narrow this thing down, so i can nail it when I get time. I do have the 4g cable for the firewall grnd, but havnt had the time to lift the car and try to get at the engine bolt.

There is nothing wrong with the added ground path where you have it. Obviously it's not an ideal location because your attaching to aluminum, but electricity can still travel through that material and off to the ground.

The company that sold the alt is telling me that I should purchase a new battery. I think its B.S. Most likely the ground I lack or the alternator. Please let me know, and thank for all your help.

Your battery has nothing to do with the surge. And neither will the alternator as far as I am concerned. Most likely your IAC is plugged... In my case, it was a bad stock coil that would cause my surging. Just make sure you follow JR's (JRichker) list as he is truely the authority when it comes to the "surge" and trouble codes.

 

[jrichker]

If the surge follows the change in alternator output voltage, they could be related. However, I would make sure that there are no other problems before I chased that rabbit. See the sticky "Help me create the Surging Idle Checklist" at the top of the forum for help with your idle problems. The first post has all the updated answers. I add to the first post as new fixes and suggestions are posted.

Aluminum is an excellent electrical conductor, right behind copper in its ability to conduct electricity. That's why there is aluminum wiring in most houses. A good connection to the A/C mount is just as good as bolting the connection to the iron block.

 

[rdharper02]

I did install my MSD coil at the same time. God I hope thats not it.