Dead Ignition

[SAM. C.]

Hi All

This morning I had trouble turning over my Pinzgauer as the batteries seemed flat. As I was bump starting it my ignition went dead and all of the dash lights went out. I thought I could smell a short under the instruments so I investigated around the steering column and the lights all came back on. I bump started it & drove it for about half an hour expecting it to charge. It didnt and it turns out one of my batteries is dead.

I have changed the dead battery and checked it with a multimeter at the terminals and it is showing 23 volts. But when I turn the ignition there is nothing no lights horn hazards nothing at all. I am sure the batteries are connected right. Has anyone got any suggestions what might be the problem?

Thanks for your help.

Sam

[M Wehrman]

Starting with the basics,are the terminals clean and tight? You should be 25 volts with good batteries, What is it charging while running? It should be around 28v.Usually both batts are replaced at the same time,as one can weaken the other. You stated that you replaced the "bad"battery...How about that Molex connector if the charge is no-or low. Good luck.

[Jim LaGuardia]

If the Molex checks out , check the ground switch and connections to it.
For the power side, check the wires at the starter lug(cab power comes from here)

[SAM. C.]

Hi All

Thanks guys my earth strap had corroded through and snapped right off. I still dont know how I managed to drive it home with it hanging on by a thread.

Thanks again guys on the money as usual !!

Cheers

Sam