electrical problem; need answer
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 120
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From: san francisco ca
electrical problem; need answer
My clock and interior lights(the one's that turn on when the door is open) stopped working on Friday. Well, to be truthful, they were intermittent. Sometimes working sometimes not. So, I replaced the 5 amp. fuse, still the same problem. Then I notice that if I push on the fuse block, the lights and the clock will work. If I stop pushing, they won't. Obviously, a bad connection at the fuse block for that circuit. Every other circuit to the block is working okay. I have some questions. Is there an easy way to pull that fuse block to get to the circuit connectors? It looks like a bear to pull the carpeting, the plastic molding, etc., while working under the dash. Also, should I get a new fuse block thinking this one problem could be the first of many with a 40 year old fuse block? All responses greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2000
Posts: 8,918
Likes: 27
From: New Hill NC
Re: electrical problem; need answer (motro)
I would try to determine if the problem is with the connection to the fuse or with the connection to the fuse holder. If the fuse holders are clean and not rusty, there is no reason why you shouldnt be able to repair, but if the holders are rusty or have lost tension, I would replace. The problem is that the fuse block is part of the wiring harness assembly and not generally serviced separately. It is not that difficult to remove and split open the fuse block, but you do have to work under the dash.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 8,913
Likes: 283
Re: electrical problem; need answer (motro)
I would check the connection of the cannon plug on the other side of the fuse block. This can get corroded and or damaged from heat. I had this problem and when investigating found that when I pressed on the fuse block the car would get power again.
When your lights go out does all the power go out or just the interior lights?
Mark
When your lights go out does all the power go out or just the interior lights?
Mark
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2001
Posts: 2,740
Likes: 4
From: Marblehead MA
Re: electrical problem; need answer (motro)
Check out Lectric Limited's online catalog... they have a fuse block replacement.... I believe its around $100.... It should solve your problems.... www.lectriclimited.com ..... :smash: I replaced my dash harness with their product and like magic everything worked.... :cheers:
Le Mans Master
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 7,246
Likes: 21
From: Going too fast over the hill. Iowa
Re: electrical problem; need answer (motro)
1 Go to an electrical supply house and get a container of lubricant that conducts electricity. Mine is in a small squeeze bottle and has the consistency of vaseline.
2 Disconnect the battery ground.
3 Pull the fuses (at least the one giving trouble) - make sure that it is tight in it's socket - that the socket is not corroded - that the holder clips are not loose in the fuse block. Use a small wire brush to clean as necessary.
4 Use a q tip to put some conductive lube on each socket clip. Do not smear it around the fuse block - it does conduct.
5 replace the fuse and reconnect the battery to see if the problem goes away.
6 If the problem continues, disconnect the battery ground and remove the screws holding the fuse block to the "firewall" to check the back of the block. Clean it as necessary.
7 If the fuse block is cracked or has some other major problem - see your local junk yard - late 50s-full size 60s Chevrolets use the same fuse block (I have a spare out of a 62 BelAir). :D
[Modified by magicv8, 10:49 PM 5/25/2003]
2 Disconnect the battery ground.
3 Pull the fuses (at least the one giving trouble) - make sure that it is tight in it's socket - that the socket is not corroded - that the holder clips are not loose in the fuse block. Use a small wire brush to clean as necessary.
4 Use a q tip to put some conductive lube on each socket clip. Do not smear it around the fuse block - it does conduct.
5 replace the fuse and reconnect the battery to see if the problem goes away.
6 If the problem continues, disconnect the battery ground and remove the screws holding the fuse block to the "firewall" to check the back of the block. Clean it as necessary.
7 If the fuse block is cracked or has some other major problem - see your local junk yard - late 50s-full size 60s Chevrolets use the same fuse block (I have a spare out of a 62 BelAir). :D
[Modified by magicv8, 10:49 PM 5/25/2003]
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 120
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From: san francisco ca
Re: electrical problem; need answer (magicv8)
Great information! Thanks everyone. I'm going to try the simple solution first which is clean the fuse connectors and try some lube. Then, if that doesn't work, pull the block and clean and inspect the block. BTW, it's only the interior lights and the clock(3rd fuse from the bottom). Everything else is working okay. Thanks again everyone. You guys are what makes this such a great board. :p:
