Mr Jeff you must be the messiah of the auto world....i dont think i have ever seen some one as organized and creative as you are. It just blows my mind how much work you put into everything you touch.....look at the damn fuse box for your house ......i dont think i will ever see one as clean as that
i assume i have a unfused heavy wire that is causing my fuse box to have an ohm meter reading of continuity to direct body ground....i was afraid to put in the new alternator for fear i would ruin it right off the get go...any thoughts?....i have found that disconnecting the starter and altternator wire and then the hot lead to the fuse box that it must be whatever is connected to the box or the fuse box itself.....i cannot get the main 3 plugs off the 99 jimmy fuse box...they wont pull out after i loosen its screw hold down
Sounds like you have a tough one to figure out. Not sure how to help on this other than if you can't get the connectors apart possibly something got hot from a poor or overloaded connection melting things together? Electrical things are much easier when there chasing issues in person.
i figured it out ....yes there should be a reading to ground cause for one thing all is well the new alt is doing its thing ....my sil said that ohmeters put out a little power ...and also something about many items connected to the fuse box may be normally closed switches to ground waiting for a signal........i also figured out why the 4wd was stuck ....the front axel acuator cable was somewhat froze and i took out the sending unit and stuck a 1/4 extention in there to pry the shoulder of what i call a piston and i got it out of 4wd but try to cycle it into 4 and back did not work...had to do the pry thing again......99 jimmy
I used to use grease and spray on terminals in servicing but when I starter doing roadside breakdowns as an RAC patrol late in my career and all cars were mostly no starts and battery related and about 25 to 30 cars a day, I noticed any terminal that had an greasy stuff or oils on them that came a little loose caused heat to melt it down between the terminals making the condition worse and leaving a baked in insulating surface on terminals that could result in a battery terminal that looks like its on but is open circuit under the slightest load. The best thing to do is neutralise the corrosion regularly by simply pouring a large jug of warm water (not hot) mixed with baking soda, flush with clean water and leave the terminals dry and clean as well as the battery top. It also neutralises corrosion down on the battery tray too.
Dear sir,ive just found your channel. I absolutely.loved it.i really loved,your homemade test gear.youbare a man after my own heart. Keep up the superb videos sir. Steve from the uk.
Very impressive how clean looking your vehicles are. Obviously, you take pride in both your work and your things, especially for the age of both of those vehicles.
Very nice truck sir. I used to own a 1990 ranger with manual trans similar to yours. She was a real workhorse. Sold her with over 150,000 miles and she was still running good. These are all good tips and time saving troubleshooting tips. I'm glad I subscribed! -Jack
+Fireship1 Thank you Jack. Where mine is a 1986 - the first year for fuel injection I noticed that the customer ones that were a few years newer ran better. A while back I converted it to a 1992 computer. Last year for the 2.9. It wasn't a plug and play deal even tho it would fit into the connector. Rewired things as necessary. Couldn't believe the difference. After driving it things were very evident on the time spent was well worth it. Back in the 80's first year things could of been developed a little better but are driveable so they can get them on the market. Actually with this port fuel injected engine in a truck at the time were way ahead of the others!
Nice video. I also have older vehicles, automotive wiring is sometimes a challenge for me. Something I am always looking to brush up on. Old pro tools and knowledge can’t be beat, thanks for the tips. Great looking cars & shop.
Why I'm watching this, I really don't know, perhaps it will come in use one day with my motorcycle which is 25 years old. However, you Sir, are a genius, so thankyou for making such a clear and useful video.
Thanks for posting thing like this give people a hard time and you seam to be the real deal I like your video and work please keep up the good work . Thanks
Im learning, right now im chaseing down why my dodge dies once in a while, replaced all sensors, checked chassis grounds, along with computer grounds, bus+ and still. Runs great "live.data".good. I guess.im venting. Love your video.
I've always been a little intimidated by some of the wiring on the newer cars. I've always liked your videos they have helped me a lot. I've been restoring a 1966 Allis Chalmers tractor and I installed a fuse box from a newer car in it like the one you put in your tractor. Thanks for the great videos Jeff!
John Wallace I always enjoy hearing what others are working on. 1966 Allis Chalmers tractor sounds like a great investment in ones time. I bet that's a project that you will keep for life where they have so many uses. Good luck on your restoration John and Thank You for your kind thoughts, Jeff
Dan Robidoux Thank you Dan. I really enjoy these type of projects. Everyone has their own type of thing they are good at. To have friends & folks with good advice when needed has become priceless thru the years...
Dan Robidoux The cool part about the Dune Buggy is it generates lotsa smiles from everyone when out and about. It seems like very few catch the Subie in it.
I bought that from an auto parts store probably 30+ years ago. I'd think they would be made yet by someone where it worked so well. Otherwise possibly Ebay?
alot of great tips and thank you for them, l would think that buzzer would make noise all the time but guess the power takes the path of least resestance when the fuse is not blown,
mustie1 Years back those buzzers were so irritating sounding when you left the key in the ign that people requested their removal. After a while I found some uses for them. Wish I would of saved more of them now. Have to do a junk yard run, tried to locate new ones to no avail. Kinda did a mix on this vid. Nice to know it was helpful & thank you for viewing. :>)
What the crap the master engine diagnosis mechanic himself making an appearance on a random channel I was looking at. What’s up Darren! Great minds think alike!
Liked the rubber band on pliers trick. Simple but effective. Could really use one of those wee electric field detectors right now, but not much chance of finding one in Taiwan
Man there is a bunch of good stuff in this video. I will need to go back a few times to absorb it all. A short in car wiring has always been hard for me. House wiring is no problem, car is harder and about the most expensive thing to have fixed. By the I like your cup holder on the Ranger. Would like to see it closer.
57WillysCJ On the car wiring issues I rarely have seen the same problem twice. With different approaches required per situation I was hoping this vid would cover most. The cup holders are those swivel ones that you put in a boat. The swivel has been removed and a washer welded to the bottom of the basket to mount it with one screw. The black pieces on the sides you might of seen are wiper washer hose with a slit cut in it length wise. That keeps the cans from rattling & adds to the looks too.
+WorldCommander That works excellent on battery cables too. Way better than any spray stuff where it gets in the nooks and crannies. Test proven/been doing that for many years now.
Jeff Great vid. May I add? Fro short ckt. hunting try putting a old fog light on 2 pins and install in the blown fuse spot When light goes out you found the problem or use a amp clamp to find the bad wire. My test light draws 4.5 amps. (fog lamp) Have you done a vid. on parasitic draw testing? I have a good trick for that one also Best of luck to ya.
Joseph Tucci Hi Joseph. That's a good idea too. One can never have too many ideas & tools for chasing these issues. Somewhere down the road I'll probably do a parasitic draw vid but currently working on several others.
Wow. Please come to Iowa. I need you, lol. My car has been down for 9weeks now. Cant find anyone to pinpoint the short so I am learning how to do it myself
Hi Jeff, thanks for taking the time to share your videos. I have watched several at this point. Just can't figure out how you did all this stuff in just 1 lifetime. I know you worked many nights on some projects. Do you ever take a day off?
Hi Danny. Actually I have worked many holidays. Never was big on watching TV. When people talk about actors and movies - I'm many times in the dark. Songs on the radio, well that's different. Much rather be creating, altering or building something.
Interesting tips... alot of people get lost with car electrics but you know your stuff...a future tour of your car collection would be a good video...;-)
***** I liked having the newer technology in an older shell. Actually in 1994 when I put the car together there wasn't a lot of aftermarket stuff like there is now. There are some homemade sensors and work arounds that had to be overcome. However all this has helped me understand the systems which benefits on customer vehicle servicing. Not a big car collection here but I did video quite a bit of the builds back then which some is quite comical!
I wish that I'd seen this video a few years ago. I had a car with an alternator whose rectifiers were shorting. The car's battery kept draining, and batteries kept dying. Finally one day the alternator caught fire as the car was sitting in the driveway, because the battery was discharging through the alternator's windings -- and the source of the electrical short became obvious.
So I have an 87 d150 that sometimes wont give me any power but a 30 amp circuit breaker keeps tripping and staying on for a half second then truck loses all power for 10 to 15 seconds and just keeps happening, so I took the breaker out and just hooked the wires together and hooked up the battery and the whole harness started smoking, was able to unhook battery before it caught fire, only 1 wire was melted through out the harness, so I taped it up best I could, put breaker back in and truck has power now, so probably part of that wire was cut open somewhere and touching the engine or body or chassis? Not so bright taking that safety of the breaker out, thanks for video
+2jeffs1 Clearly you enjoy doing all the wiring, and you are good at it too. Your homemade tools make doing these troubleshooting tasks easier. If I have a wiring problem, you are the man to call! Great Video, liked and subscribed (long ago).
Home or automotive wiring has been a favorite without a doubt. Any additional tips or devices to add to an arsenal needed to chase certain issues can be a good thing! Thanks for stopping by, Jeff
Using Volts when cking the wires coming off the compressor. I dont get a reading on volts until i unhook the Neg battery terminal. Then i get a reading of 12 plus volts. With test light i get/show power on both wires. I also show power on both ports/inserts on the low pressure switch and if i try to bridge it over to cycle the clutch it will blow the big 20 amp fuse. Same thing if i try from the ac relay from the under hood fuse box. Unless i unhook the High side switch/plug -in . Then i show only 1 insert hot and then try to bridge it over to cycle the clutch and it dont kick it in but it dont blow the fuse like that. . I have had the system vacuumed and i put oil back in the system b4 vacuumed and it took the oil but will not take freon. The compressor worked great when it was on my 96 jeep. My clutch locked up on the 2000 so i put the 96 on it but had to change out the backs of the compressor because the lines were different. I then lost all my freon and oil too i assumed. the 96 went into the back of the compressor and the 2000 go on the top. I took the 2000 compressor apart but there was nothing broken inside. Just the clutched locked up. {Note} i road the jeep for aprox 2 months b4 trying to add freon or oil. You think i might have ruined that compressor by riding it like that??? but the electric things dont add up or are not right i think but i really dont know but i really need it to work. Im 57 and i hav breathing probs. and cant breath good when i get real hot. So i really need some help. PS.. I can manually kick the clutch in by running a wire from the hot/coil wire to the hot battery terminal and the clutch will engage that way but still will not take freon. Please Help...
i ran across your video and was wondering...i just put another 3.0l v6 in my 92 ford ranger xlt. i got a check engine light...pull the code and it was the dreaded 212 (Code 212 = Loss of IDM (Ignition Diagnostic Monitor) input to EEC or SPOUT circuit grounded)...since electrical isn't my forte, i was wondering if u would make a video on how u would go about troubleshooting and fixing the problem....the wiring diagram makes no sense to me, i'm a visual person. i dont even know what or where the SPOUT circuit is located...thanks in advanced
Hey Jeff My corvette keeps blowing glass fuse whenever I start engine? It’s a 10 amp glass fuse that works my fuel gauge and temperature gauge? I put new fuse in fuse holder start engine and it blows fuse immediately??? Where do I look fir short??? What should I do ? Appreciate all ur knowledge and help. It’s driving me crazy. Can’t drive car with no engine temp or fuel gauge??? Thanks for any help or ideas to fix this mess?😮
The one I have is a Mastech model HY7530EX. 70 volt 30 amp model. They have many different versions. They are kinda expensive, can't remember what I paid. 4-600.00 ish? Think I bought it from Amazon but not sure on that either. I did want a Kenwood but them were way more. Real happy with it so far.
cool video thanks. how can you go about fixing a conector like at 8:12 the silver piece is no longer in the conector and the copper wire is bare inside?
+408skills. I have found that certain connector terminals can be next to impossible to find. Then the only option is to get one from a salvage yard and use what you need out of that one. There are many different design release tabs to extract them from a housing too. Once that is figured out the replacement of a single bad one can be accomplished.
Wow! Look at that Nova! Everyone wants to buy new today, but if you develop some skills you can have better then new! I like the via motors stuff, using the engine as a generator and driving the vehicle with a battery. Electric isn't as expensive as gas, so you can actually afford to drive the vehicle. Just need a diy version. Have to watch this one again. Lot of it is greek to me, but that remote starter switch and the gear oil on the battery are a huge help. Thumbs up. Be real, be sober.
***** On the Nova build that bit of info just scratched the surface. Last winter I got into the last thing that bothered me. Never liked how those first gen EFI systems ran. The way too fast idle on start-up and extended crank before fire up to name a few. I changed the computer to an eeprom. You put the chip in a burner to write to it. It starts/runs equal to anything of today's market. Glad you grabbed some ideas and thank you for your comment, Jeff
+WorldCommander If one thinks there might be an internal break or intermittent open circuit I follow the suspected wire it's entire length slightly moving it as you travel the length with whatever is on that circuit turned on. If no act up then I will pull and also push it together as moving along it. If you see the insulation stretch in an area then that would be an area of concern. To test an oxidized set a meter to volts. hook 1 end to a good ground in the area and test the wire just past the suspect connector for voltage with the component for the ground turned on. if you see any voltage it would need a cleaning. Actually when cust cars come in here I always put gear oil on the connections under the hood with an oil can which will eliminate any issues ever and is so easy to do. I have done starter wires and etc the same way too. The oil seeps into where needed very well. If one sees a ground with oxidization on it clean it to insure no future issues happen. So many different issues/ways to chase electrical problems. Hope this helps you out for several different scenario's.
Anyone who reply's to comments get a automatic sub. I love chasing down elc problem and always looking for new ways,I have used a small amp hand held meter for 20+ years never fail me yet going to make myself a buss box now great idea 2 thumbs up.. Every tip you gave are great and are the #1 problem I too have found , them more we do the faster it is to find the problem areas. ! thing you didn't mention is when the factory joins 2 wire to do the same job IE head lights 3/4 of the way in a circuit ( pontiac sunfire) under the rad cradle and that joint rots.1 light works good fuse ,light bulb is fine, then a wiring diagram might be of help to find this type of thing. Of course nothing beats years of doing. Have a great day.
Personally I think it is nice when people take time out of their day to not only watch a video but to write up a - what they are up to/in to comment! It is evident from your write up you have been around the block a few times without a doubt. Nice points you brought up there. Experience is a good thing where so many times problems found are not going to be in a manual. I think part of the fun seems to be the challenge of finding the odd issues. Thanks for stopping by P Kuudsk, Jeff
Hi Terry. I got that from a local auto parts store many years ago. Possibly NAPA. An older counter person would be more apt to know what you are describing than a new guy. Good luck, Jeff
I actually have a 2001 GMC Yukon 4 wheel drive. And I'm thinking it has a short in the wiring harness some where because it was reading for o2 bank one censor but when I replaced it it's still reading for that censor also it's saying that there also a under the plenium cap cant really remember the name but it's saying it is bad also so I replaced it And still reading the same how would I trace that short and where exactly would you prefer me to start looking
Too many - could be's - for your issues. Perhaps check the harness between the bell housing/firewall area if the transmission was ever replaced. I seen them get pinched/or damaged there.
I have a 2000 Malibu and everything i take the neg wire off and put it back on it sparks. was told i have a short or something somewhere. how would i go about checking were that is?
CaptHwdy08 It is natural to have minor sparking when first connected where your charging the caps in the comp system or a large stereo amplifier. If your battery is going dead after a short period definitely start with the easiest thing and have it tested professionally. I have seen where people spend a ton of time looking for a short and there is a problem with a fairly new battery or charging system. To test a slight draw on the system you would need a meter on the neg circuit and start pulling fuses to see where it drops. Most common is any aftermarket installed components for the probable cause.
I seen several video's where people built a similar thing and were using relays and worked well. I am using a modified key buzzer which are next to impossible to locate these days, something I had on hand so.....
why we have to kick the shorted system with hundred and hundred amp, why not eough just couple bulbs to instal to the fuse leg and measure just with 30 amp or smaller amp gauge just with normal load on a cable?
2jeffs1 I've got an idea for a video for you but you'd need my car as the "prop" it's something that A LOT of Honda owners have to deal with that I am sure you can figure out a way around it other than what the dealer says you need to do which is replace the entire Engine Bay Fuse Box just for relay that's in the box
Sachi WI That's interesting! Yeah as time goes on I have been seeing where the mgf are going to entire component assembly's v/s the -replace the one component in the assy that failed. The prices on certain things are like - really? I must say the new veh's seem more dependable but at repair time can be more costly.
I do have the Snapon touch screen scanner which can record wave form movies and can then review them on the desk top for finding those weird/intermittent issues. So many other things one can do with that scanner too. That would be the most expensive out of everything. Other than that a buffet of different meters, gadgets and can't forget some homemade widgets too. ;>)
Actually there is a mercury switch that is built into that hood light housing which does that. When wired direct that bulb gets hot real quick and not fun to remove if one wants to leave the hood open with the light off. Thanks for stopping by, Jeff
Isn't it amazing how fast technology progresses... You won't see any of that sh_t in 2021. This video mite has been posted 6 years ago, but... Hey yall, doesn't it seems longer!????
Thank you for the comment Steve. It's great feedback to make things better. A while back I had bought a new mic for voice dubs and upped the main producing volume for the newer vid's. Also glad this helps out, those electrical issues can be quite the tease to find at times!
Mr Jeff you must be the messiah of the auto world....i dont think i have ever seen some one as organized and creative as you are. It just blows my mind how much work you put into everything you touch.....look at the damn fuse box for your house ......i dont think i will ever see one as clean as that
Thank you for your kind thoughts Alfonso. Very much appreciated!
i assume i have a unfused heavy wire that is causing my fuse box to have an ohm meter reading of continuity to direct body ground....i was afraid to put in the new alternator for fear i would ruin it right off the get go...any thoughts?....i have found that disconnecting the starter and altternator wire and then the hot lead to the fuse box that it must be whatever is connected to the box or the fuse box itself.....i cannot get the main 3 plugs off the 99 jimmy fuse box...they wont pull out after i loosen its screw hold down
Sounds like you have a tough one to figure out. Not sure how to help on this other than if you can't get the connectors apart possibly something got hot from a poor or overloaded connection melting things together? Electrical things are much easier when there chasing issues in person.
i figured it out ....yes there should be a reading to ground cause for one thing
all is well the new alt is doing its thing ....my sil said that ohmeters put out a little power ...and also something about many items connected to the fuse box may be normally closed switches to ground waiting for a signal........i also figured out why the 4wd was stuck ....the front axel acuator cable was somewhat froze and i took out the sending unit and stuck a 1/4 extention in there to pry the shoulder of what i call a piston and i got it out of 4wd but try to cycle it into 4 and back did not work...had to do the pry thing again......99 jimmy
thanks for responding
LOL. Learned something new after soldering for 25 years. Never thought of the rubber band. Such a simple idea and effective idea. Thanks.
Your welcome Bill. Actually I stole that idea from a friend some time ago.
Great info. interesting seeing all your home made testers. I was thinking you looked familiar then remembered I have seen you on Guild Garage TV show.
I used to use grease and spray on terminals in servicing but when I starter doing roadside breakdowns as an RAC patrol late in my career and all cars were mostly no starts and battery related and about 25 to 30 cars a day, I noticed any terminal that had an greasy stuff or oils on them that came a little loose caused heat to melt it down between the terminals making the condition worse and leaving a baked in insulating surface on terminals that could result in a battery terminal that looks like its on but is open circuit under the slightest load.
The best thing to do is neutralise the corrosion regularly by simply pouring a large jug of warm water (not hot) mixed with baking soda, flush with clean water and leave the terminals dry and clean as well as the battery top.
It also neutralises corrosion down on the battery tray too.
Thank you for that info, Sir!
Dear sir,ive just found your channel.
I absolutely.loved it.i really loved,your homemade test gear.youbare a man after my own heart.
Keep up the superb videos sir.
Steve from the uk.
Very impressive how clean looking your vehicles are. Obviously, you take pride in both your work and your things, especially for the age of both of those vehicles.
Very nice truck sir. I used to own a 1990 ranger with manual trans similar to yours. She was a real workhorse. Sold her with over 150,000 miles and she was still running good. These are all good tips and time saving troubleshooting tips. I'm glad I subscribed!
-Jack
+Fireship1 Thank you Jack. Where mine is a 1986 - the first year for fuel injection I noticed that the customer ones that were a few years newer ran better. A while back I converted it to a 1992 computer. Last year for the 2.9. It wasn't a plug and play deal even tho it would fit into the connector. Rewired things as necessary. Couldn't believe the difference. After driving it things were very evident on the time spent was well worth it. Back in the 80's first year things could of been developed a little better but are driveable so they can get them on the market. Actually with this port fuel injected engine in a truck at the time were way ahead of the others!
Nice video. I also have older vehicles, automotive wiring is sometimes a challenge for me.
Something I am always looking to brush up on. Old pro tools and knowledge can’t be beat, thanks for the tips. Great looking cars & shop.
Thank you for the comment and stopping by Joe!
Why I'm watching this, I really don't know, perhaps it will come in use one day with my motorcycle which is 25 years old. However, you Sir, are a genius, so thankyou for making such a clear and useful video.
Thank you for the kind thoughts. Electrical things can be challenging at times. Always hope these videos help out others!
Thanks Jeff, you have such a wealth of useful knowledge and cool ideas!
Chip Wright I always enjoyed helping others out with helpful info in any situations.
Thanks for watching Chip, Jeff!
Thanks for posting thing like this give people a hard time and you seam to be the real
deal I like your video and work please keep up the good work . Thanks
Hi Terrie. Glad to have you stop by. Those electrical repairs can be tedious and a few more ideas can't hurt when chasing them!
Wow, those engine bays are pristine, neat tricks like the center console fuse panel. LOL Love the Wild Turkey and Homemade Spark PLug Tester
probably the best vid i have seen on this subject, great job bro!
Im learning, right now im chaseing down why my dodge dies once in a while, replaced all sensors, checked chassis grounds, along with computer grounds, bus+ and still. Runs great "live.data".good. I guess.im venting. Love your video.
I love all the analog test equipment and gadgets. very interesting videos !Thanks
Excellent Video. I really enjoyed it. Very educational. I will be looking for more from you. Thank You!
Glad to help out Kieth! Jeff.
I've always been a little intimidated by some of the wiring on the newer cars. I've always liked your videos they have helped me a lot. I've been restoring a 1966 Allis Chalmers tractor and I installed a fuse box from a newer car in it like the one you put in your tractor. Thanks for the great videos Jeff!
John Wallace I always enjoy hearing what others are working on. 1966 Allis Chalmers tractor sounds like a great investment in ones time. I bet that's a project that you will keep for life where they have so many uses. Good luck on your restoration John and Thank You for your kind thoughts, Jeff
You are a very patient and passionate man my friend!
Dan Robidoux Thank you Dan. I really enjoy these type of projects. Everyone has their own type of thing they are good at. To have friends & folks with good advice when needed has become priceless thru the years...
Your Subaru swap in a dune buggy got me hooked.
Dan Robidoux The cool part about the Dune Buggy is it generates lotsa smiles from everyone when out and about. It seems like very few catch the Subie in it.
Means you aced it!
Thanks Ive been working on my old cars all my life and enjoyed your helpful tips
Capt Rhan
I appreciate knowing that these video's are helping out. Thanks for stopping by Capt Rhan.
Where in the world can I get that little round tester? says KAL on back looks like it is red
I bought that from an auto parts store probably 30+ years ago. I'd think they would be made yet by someone where it worked so well. Otherwise possibly Ebay?
alot of great tips and thank you for them, l would think that buzzer would make noise all the time but guess the power takes the path of least resestance when the fuse is not blown,
mustie1 Years back those buzzers were so irritating sounding when you left the key in the ign that people requested their removal. After a while I found some uses for them. Wish I would of saved more of them now. Have to do a junk yard run, tried to locate new ones to no avail. Kinda did a mix on this vid. Nice to know it was helpful & thank you for viewing. :>)
What the crap the master engine diagnosis mechanic himself making an appearance on a random channel I was looking at. What’s up Darren! Great minds think alike!
Excellent video as always Jeff! Keep them coming if possible.
Kyle Sanislo Thank you Kyle. I always hope there is a tip or two for everyone when I put these together. Better yet - some money saving thoughts too!!
I was a mechanic now a electrician. It's amazing the knowledge you have in so many different areas. Thanks again!
Kyle Sanislo You definitely Welcome Kyle, Jeff :>)
Liked the rubber band on pliers trick. Simple but effective. Could really use one of those wee electric field detectors right now, but not much chance of finding one in Taiwan
Once again a very helpful video.
Thanks for sharing.
Man there is a bunch of good stuff in this video. I will need to go back a few times to absorb it all. A short in car wiring has always been hard for me. House wiring is no problem, car is harder and about the most expensive thing to have fixed. By the I like your cup holder on the Ranger. Would like to see it closer.
57WillysCJ On the car wiring issues I rarely have seen the same problem twice. With different approaches required per situation I was hoping this vid would cover most. The cup holders are those swivel ones that you put in a boat. The swivel has been removed and a washer welded to the bottom of the basket to mount it with one screw. The black pieces on the sides you might of seen are wiper washer hose with a slit cut in it length wise. That keeps the cans from rattling & adds to the looks too.
Thanks, Jeff. Great tip on the oil also. I've never heard of that.
+WorldCommander That works excellent on battery cables too. Way better than any spray stuff where it gets in the nooks and crannies. Test proven/been doing that for many years now.
WorldCommander the,
Fun video Jeff! Very smart Mr.Gadget!
Had to keep up with the Joneses! - Sorry I blew up, ;>) Thanks for stopping by again, Jeff.
lol
Jeff Great vid. May I add? Fro short ckt. hunting try putting a old fog light on 2 pins and install in the blown fuse spot When light goes out you found the problem or use a amp clamp to find the bad wire. My test light draws 4.5 amps. (fog lamp)
Have you done a vid. on parasitic draw testing? I have a good trick for that one also Best of luck to ya.
Joseph Tucci Hi Joseph. That's a good idea too. One can never have too many ideas & tools for chasing these issues. Somewhere down the road I'll probably do a parasitic draw vid but currently working on several others.
Great video! Your knowledge always amazes me. Thanks
T Justmetmc Seems there is always something different to get into here. Enjoy sharing the Ideas!
I'm hook on your tutorials. Please keep them coming! Thank you.
Old pro tools and knowledge are the best!
Thank you, thanks you, Thank you!
You are a genius !
Good stuff there bud! Way to go aye.
Great stuff as always. You always amaze
+phooesnax Thankx! Always happy to share some tips!
Like that device you built to check spark plugs really cool gadget.
Love your Ranger man, its awesome.
non yobussiness Thanks man! Try to keep things looking nice even tho it has had some use & abuse thru the years...
You're a Wizard :). Looking forward to your new vids. Thanks!
Wonderful video ! many thanks for this moment....have a nice day
Sebastian Vestae Glad you enjoyed the video and thank you for the kind comment Sebastian, Jeff
Great tips sir. Very creative thank you for sharing. Cheers
Your welcome and thank you for stopping by, Jeff
Wow. Please come to Iowa. I need you, lol. My car has been down for 9weeks now. Cant find anyone to pinpoint the short so I am learning how to do it myself
Hi Jeff, thanks for taking the time to share your videos. I have watched several at this point. Just can't figure out how you did all this stuff in just 1 lifetime. I know you worked many nights on some projects. Do you ever take a day off?
Hi Danny. Actually I have worked many holidays. Never was big on watching TV. When people talk about actors and movies - I'm many times in the dark. Songs on the radio, well that's different. Much rather be creating, altering or building something.
Interesting tips... alot of people get lost with car electrics but you know your stuff...a future tour of your car collection would be a good video...;-)
***** I liked having the newer technology in an older shell. Actually in 1994 when I put the car together there wasn't a lot of aftermarket stuff like there is now. There are some homemade sensors and work arounds that had to be overcome. However all this has helped me understand the systems which benefits on customer vehicle servicing. Not a big car collection here but I did video quite a bit of the builds back then which some is quite comical!
I wish that I'd seen this video a few years ago. I had a car with an alternator whose rectifiers were shorting. The car's battery kept draining, and batteries kept dying. Finally one day the alternator caught fire as the car was sitting in the driveway, because the battery was discharging through the alternator's windings -- and the source of the electrical short became obvious.
So I have an 87 d150 that sometimes wont give me any power but a 30 amp circuit breaker keeps tripping and staying on for a half second then truck loses all power for 10 to 15 seconds and just keeps happening, so I took the breaker out and just hooked the wires together and hooked up the battery and the whole harness started smoking, was able to unhook battery before it caught fire, only 1 wire was melted through out the harness, so I taped it up best I could, put breaker back in and truck has power now, so probably part of that wire was cut open somewhere and touching the engine or body or chassis? Not so bright taking that safety of the breaker out, thanks for video
Awesome video
excellent I really like you video thank you for posting
Your welcome, glad to help out!
+2jeffs1 Clearly you enjoy doing all the wiring, and you are good at it too. Your homemade tools make doing these troubleshooting tasks easier. If I have a wiring problem, you are the man to call! Great Video, liked and subscribed (long ago).
Home or automotive wiring has been a favorite without a doubt. Any additional tips or devices to add to an arsenal needed to chase certain issues can be a good thing! Thanks for stopping by, Jeff
Using Volts when cking the wires coming off the compressor. I dont get a reading on volts until i unhook the Neg battery terminal. Then i get a reading of 12 plus volts. With test light i get/show power on both wires. I also show power on both ports/inserts on the low pressure switch and if i try to bridge it over to cycle the clutch it will blow the big 20 amp fuse. Same thing if i try from the ac relay from the under hood fuse box. Unless i unhook the High side switch/plug -in . Then i show only 1 insert hot and then try to bridge it over to cycle the clutch and it dont kick it in but it dont blow the fuse like that. . I have had the system vacuumed and i put oil back in the system b4 vacuumed and it took the oil but will not take freon. The compressor worked great when it was on my 96 jeep. My clutch locked up on the 2000 so i put the 96 on it but had to change out the backs of the compressor because the lines were different. I then lost all my freon and oil too i assumed. the 96 went into the back of the compressor and the 2000 go on the top. I took the 2000 compressor apart but there was nothing broken inside. Just the clutched locked up. {Note} i road the jeep for aprox 2 months b4 trying to add freon or oil. You think i might have ruined that compressor by riding it like that??? but the electric things dont add up or are not right i think but i really dont know but i really need it to work. Im 57 and i hav breathing probs. and cant breath good when i get real hot. So i really need some help. PS.. I can manually kick the clutch in by running a wire from the hot/coil wire to the hot battery terminal and the clutch will engage that way but still will not take freon. Please Help...
Awesome informative video
Thank you sir
Your welcome Stan.
Nice Video! Thank you for the tips!
+Gene Chicago Your welcome Gene. Glad you enjoyed!
really sweeeet nova buddy !
i ran across your video and was wondering...i just put another 3.0l v6 in my 92 ford ranger xlt. i got a check engine light...pull the code and it was the dreaded 212 (Code 212 = Loss of IDM (Ignition Diagnostic Monitor) input to EEC or SPOUT circuit grounded)...since electrical isn't my forte, i was wondering if u would make a video on how u would go about troubleshooting and fixing the problem....the wiring diagram makes no sense to me, i'm a visual person. i dont even know what or where the SPOUT circuit is located...thanks in advanced
9:25 That Ford Ranger is *Really* clean!
Brilliant video.
Hey Jeff
My corvette keeps blowing glass fuse whenever I start engine? It’s a 10 amp glass fuse that works my fuel gauge and temperature gauge? I put new fuse in fuse holder start engine and it blows fuse immediately??? Where do I look fir short???
What should I do ? Appreciate all ur knowledge and help.
It’s driving me crazy. Can’t drive car with no engine temp or fuel gauge??? Thanks for any help or ideas to fix this mess?😮
Jeff forgot to tell u it’s a 66 corvette with all glass fuses in fuse box. Thanks
Good tips there, thanks for sharing!
Do you have a video on that buzzbox that fires the coil in the beginning of the video? Id really like to make my own..Thank you
Thanks for the tips! great stuff!
Your welcome, glad to help out!
great tips!
where would i find a power supply like you showed in this video, and are they very expensive?
thank you
The one I have is a Mastech model HY7530EX. 70 volt 30 amp model. They have many different versions. They are kinda expensive, can't remember what I paid. 4-600.00 ish? Think I bought it from Amazon but not sure on that either. I did want a Kenwood but them were way more. Real happy with it so far.
2jeffs1
good to know.
thank you
Your welcome!
great video thanks 4 that so cool and me wow 2
This is so cool!! Thank you for posting!!
rubber band and pliers, best idea ever
1986 was a great year for the ranger, i had one with 250,000 miles
Sir my automatic transmission on a freightliner century truck got stuck on gear and can't find the short circuit any advice will be much appreciated
Great information.
Thank you!
Very clever man
Excellent.....
cool video thanks.
how can you go about fixing a conector like at 8:12 the silver piece is no longer in the conector and the copper wire is bare inside?
+408skills. I have found that certain connector terminals can be next to impossible to find. Then the only option is to get one from a salvage yard and use what you need out of that one. There are many different design release tabs to extract them from a housing too. Once that is figured out the replacement of a single bad one can be accomplished.
Wow! Look at that Nova! Everyone wants to buy new today, but if you develop some skills you can have better then new!
I like the via motors stuff, using the engine as a generator and driving the vehicle with a battery. Electric isn't as expensive as gas, so you can actually afford to drive the vehicle. Just need a diy version.
Have to watch this one again. Lot of it is greek to me, but that remote starter switch and the gear oil on the battery are a huge help. Thumbs up.
Be real, be sober.
***** On the Nova build that bit of info just scratched the surface. Last winter I got into the last thing that bothered me. Never liked how those first gen EFI systems ran. The way too fast idle on start-up and extended crank before fire up to name a few. I changed the computer to an eeprom. You put the chip in a burner to write to it. It starts/runs equal to anything of today's market. Glad you grabbed some ideas and thank you for your comment, Jeff
2jeffs1 Thanks for the note Jeff! Big smile. Made my day.
Jeff, is there a best way to tell between a broken wire and a bad (tight but oxidized?)ground connection in a intermittant electrical malfunction?
+WorldCommander If one thinks there might be an internal break or intermittent open circuit I follow the suspected wire it's entire length slightly moving it as you travel the length with whatever is on that circuit turned on. If no act up then I will pull and also push it together as moving along it. If you see the insulation stretch in an area then that would be an area of concern. To test an oxidized set a meter to volts. hook 1 end to a good ground in the area and test the wire just past the suspect connector for voltage with the component for the ground turned on. if you see any voltage it would need a cleaning. Actually when cust cars come in here I always put gear oil on the connections under the hood with an oil can which will eliminate any issues ever and is so easy to do. I have done starter wires and etc the same way too. The oil seeps into where needed very well. If one sees a ground with oxidization on it clean it to insure no future issues happen. So many different issues/ways to chase electrical problems. Hope this helps you out for several different scenario's.
I know that tool ....... Classic and works .
Anyone who reply's to comments get a automatic sub.
I love chasing down elc problem and always looking for new ways,I have used a small amp hand held meter for 20+ years never fail me yet going to make myself a buss box now great idea 2 thumbs up..
Every tip you gave are great and are the #1 problem I too have found , them more we do the faster it is to find the problem areas.
! thing you didn't mention is when the factory joins 2 wire to do the same job IE head lights 3/4 of the way in a circuit ( pontiac sunfire) under the rad cradle and that joint rots.1 light works good fuse ,light bulb is fine, then a wiring diagram might be of help to find this type of thing. Of course nothing beats years of doing.
Have a great day.
Personally I think it is nice when people take time out of their day to not only watch a video but to write up a - what they are up to/in to comment! It is evident from your write up you have been around the block a few times without a doubt. Nice points you brought up there. Experience is a good thing where so many times problems found are not going to be in a manual. I think part of the fun seems to be the challenge of finding the odd issues. Thanks for stopping by P Kuudsk, Jeff
Thank Jeff for doing videos,I couldnt put one together.
Just a suggestion doing one for people about wires at hinges and all the problems they give.
where can I buy the red body round terminal-free ammeter shown near the beginning of your video?
Hi Terry. I got that from a local auto parts store many years ago. Possibly NAPA. An older counter person would be more apt to know what you are describing than a new guy. Good luck, Jeff
Thanks Jeff for the quick reply.
Terry
Good stuff God bless buddy
cokeman250 Thank you cokeman250 & glad you enjoyed the video!!
I actually have a 2001 GMC Yukon 4 wheel drive. And I'm thinking it has a short in the wiring harness some where because it was reading for o2 bank one censor but when I replaced it it's still reading for that censor also it's saying that there also a under the plenium cap cant really remember the name but it's saying it is bad also so I replaced it And still reading the same how would I trace that short and where exactly would you prefer me to start looking
Too many - could be's - for your issues. Perhaps check the harness between the bell housing/firewall area if the transmission was ever replaced. I seen them get pinched/or damaged there.
where do you find a current tester like that one? Is there another way to improvise?
I got that from an auto parts store many years ago. Perhaps google current / load tester.
I have a 2000 Malibu and everything i take the neg wire off and put it back on it sparks. was told i have a short or something somewhere. how would i go about checking were that is?
CaptHwdy08 It is natural to have minor sparking when first connected where your charging the caps in the comp system or a large stereo amplifier. If your battery is going dead after a short period definitely start with the easiest thing and have it tested professionally. I have seen where people spend a ton of time looking for a short and there is a problem with a fairly new battery or charging system. To test a slight draw on the system you would need a meter on the neg circuit and start pulling fuses to see where it drops. Most common is any aftermarket installed components for the probable cause.
What was that u used to test spark plugs -what type of relais?
I seen several video's where people built a similar thing and were using relays and worked well. I am using a modified key buzzer which are next to impossible to locate these days, something I had on hand so.....
do you have other tutorial to make those magnificent tools!!
I have a 78 Ford pickup, it keeps blowing a fuse for the dash lights, any ideas
Looks like an IROC tuned port injection!?
Hii Jeff,
where to find that small amp meter ? can't find it anywhere.
I bought that many years back from an auto parts store. Sadly as you suspect too many good things from the past are longer available.
www.amazon.com/GearWrench-2524D-Short-Circuit-Detector/dp/B000RH6JP
Should be similar
www.amazon.com/GearWrench-2524D-Short-Circuit-Detector/dp/B000RH6JP6
why we have to kick the shorted system with hundred and hundred amp, why not eough just couple bulbs to instal to the fuse leg and measure just with 30 amp or smaller amp gauge just with normal load on a cable?
2jeffs1 I've got an idea for a video for you but you'd need my car as the "prop" it's something that A LOT of Honda owners have to deal with that I am sure you can figure out a way around it other than what the dealer says you need to do which is replace the entire Engine Bay Fuse Box just for relay that's in the box
Sachi WI That's interesting! Yeah as time goes on I have been seeing where the mgf are going to entire component assembly's v/s the -replace the one component in the assy that failed. The prices on certain things are like - really? I must say the new veh's seem more dependable but at repair time can be more costly.
Have you had to invest a lot of money in scan tools and other computerized thingamajigs?
I do have the Snapon touch screen scanner which can record wave form movies and can then review them on the desk top for finding those weird/intermittent issues. So many other things one can do with that scanner too. That would be the most expensive out of everything.
Other than that a buffet of different meters, gadgets and can't forget some homemade widgets too. ;>)
2jeffs1
Awesome
Why don't you install a hood switch that turns your hood light on when you open it?
Actually there is a mercury switch that is built into that hood light housing which does that. When wired direct that bulb gets hot real quick and not fun to remove if one wants to leave the hood open with the light off. Thanks for stopping by, Jeff
Long time no see
Thanks geat tips
Wow!
try chasing down a short for an air bag system
I miss radio shack😥
Yes - Big time!
A good viedeo
timely for me
Isn't it amazing how fast technology progresses... You won't see any of that sh_t in 2021. This video mite has been posted 6 years ago, but... Hey yall, doesn't it seems longer!????
you should have been a doctor, we would have found the cure to cancer years ago, excellent video.
I can hardly here you. Great video other than that. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for the comment Steve. It's great feedback to make things better. A while back I had bought a new mic for voice dubs and upped the main producing volume for the newer vid's. Also glad this helps out, those electrical issues can be quite the tease to find at times!
Okay show me your time machine..lol
Shhh, ;>)
good to know I can not find my subura 1986
short in my subura 1986
Thumbs-up for the accent, eh.