My '83 TC just recently started blowing the #5 fuse which controls the directionals and backup lights. As soon as the ignition reaches the run position, POP goes the fuse. I replaced the directional/high beam switch but that was not the problem.
Just last night, be it related or not, my headlights started flashing on and off in a random fashion.
Anyone had this problem? I assume I have a broken wire somewhere, but if someone has had this happen to them, I would love to have a place to start. Wiring problems and I don't get along real well, but I'm hoping to not have to send it to the shop for this.
-BP
[This message has been edited by Basement Paul (edited 04-21-2002).]
I had the same problem with a pickup once. Ended up being in the wiring under the steering wheel. The truck had tilt steering and had rubbed a hole in one of the wires, causing it to short.
Pull the steering wheel and investigate the wires near the Hazard Lights Switch (Turn Signal and Brake wires go through that switch). While you have the steering wheel off, try to rearrange some of the wires there. There is not a lot of room to work with, however. Then install a new fuse and turn on the ignition, while watching for any sign of arcing. Good Luck.
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Jim Portteus
NATO Member
86 Turbo Coupe, 131K Miles, 140MPH Speedo, Gillis Valve, 2 1/2" Downpipe to 2" Duals w/ 18" Glasspacks, 245/50R16's and new paint.
When I put the new directional switch on, I did exactly that. Checked out all the wires under the steering wheel, and never saw a spark at all. I also checked the wires from the reverse switch on the trans into the car. No luck there either...
-BP
Do you have an EVTM? If not, get one before trying to trace down any wiring.
Remove the fuse, and wire a 12V test light to the fuse terminals. Turn on the key, and the light will light up full brightness if there is a bad short. Pull the connector off the turn / dimmer switch. If the light goes out, the problem is the wiring after the switch. If it stays lit, the problem is the wiring between the switch and the ignition switch. With the bulb lit up, bend, shake, move, etc the harness and watch for the light to flicker or go out. WHen it does, you know what part of the harness has the short.
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Jeff Korn
88 Turbo Coupe: Intake and exhaust mods, T3 turbo at 20 psi, forced air intercooler, water injection, bypass valve, Ranger roller cam, subframes, etc., etc.. // 86 Tbird 5.0 (original owner): intake, exhaust, valvetrain mods, 100 HP nitrous, ignition, gears, suspension, etc., etc.... // 91 Escort: Bone stock winter car // 00 Windstar (wifes vehicle)