ignition FORD FESTIVA 1991 Owners Manual

VACUUM PUMP - DIESEL TROUBLE SHOOTING
VACUUM PUMP (DIESEL) TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
MANUAL TRANSMISSION
MANUAL TRANSMISSION TROUBLE SHOOTING
MANUAL TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE TROUBLE SHOOTING
Clogged air bleedsRemove restriction
EGR valve malfunctionReplace EGR valve
Restricted air cleaner filterReplace air filter
Cracked or broken vacuum hosesReplace vacuum hoses
Cracked or broken ignition wiresReplace ignition wires
Vacuum advance malfunctionCheck unit and replace as
necessary
Defective or fouled spark plugsReplace spark plugs
Ping or Spark Knock
Incorrect ignition timingReset ignition timing see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Distributor centrifugal or vacuum advance malfunctionCheck operation and replace
as necessary
Carburetor setting too leanReadjust mixture setting, see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Vacuum leakEliminate vacuum leak
EGR valve malfunctionReplace EGR valve
Poor Gasoline Mileage
Cracked or broken vacuumReplace vacuum hoses hoses
Vacuum leaksRepair vacuum leaks
Defective ignition wiresReplace wires
Incorrect choke settingReadjust setting, see ENGINE
PERFORMANCE
Defective vacuum advanceReplace vacuum advance
Defective spark plugsReplace spark plugs
Binding carburetor power pistonEliminate binding
Dirt in carburetor jetsClean and/or replace jets
Incorrect float adjustmentReadjust float setting, see
FUEL
Defective power valveReplace power valve, see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Incorrect idle speedReadjust idle speed
Engine Stalls
Improper float levelReadjust float level
Leaking needle valve and seatReplace needle valve and seat
Vacuum leaksEliminate vacuum leaks
NOTE:This is GENERAL inform ation. This article is not intended to be specific to any unique situation or
individual vehicle configuration. T he purpose of this T rouble Shooting inform ation is to provide a list
of com m on causes to problem sym ptom s. For m odel-specific T rouble Shooting, refer to SUBJECT ,
DIAGNOST IC, or T EST ING articles available in the section(s) you are accessing.
NOTE:Diesel engines m echanical diagnosis is the sam e as gasoline engines for item s such as noisy valves,
bearings, pistons, etc. T he following trouble shooting covers only item s pertaining to diesel engines.
CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSECORRECTION
Excessive Noise
Loose pump-to-drive assembly screwsTighten screws
Loose tube on pump assemblyTighten tube
Valves not functioning properlyReplace valves
Oil Leakage
Loose end plugTighten end plug
Bad seal crimpRemove and re-crimp
seal
NOTE:This is GENERAL inform ation. This article is not intended to be specific to any unique situation or
individual vehicle configuration. T he purpose of this T rouble Shooting inform ation is to provide a list
of com m on causes to problem sym ptom s. For m odel-specific T rouble Shooting, refer to SUBJECT ,
DIAGNOST IC, or T EST ING articles available in the section(s) you are accessing.
ConditionPossible Cause
Noisy In Forward GearsLow gear oil level, Loose bell housing bolts, Worn bearings or
gears
Clunk On Deceleration (FWD Only)Loose engine mounts, Worn inboard CV joints, Worn differential
pinion shaft, Side gear hub counterbore in case worn oversize
Page 25 of 36 MITCHELL 1 ARTICLE - GENERAL INFORMATION Trouble Shooting - Basic Procedures
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GENERAL INFORMATION
T ROUBLE SHOOT ING
* PLEASE READ THIS FIRST *
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
TUNE-UP TROUBLE SHOOTING NOTE:T his article is generic in nature and all inform ation does not apply to all vehicles. For vehicle specific
inform ation, see the appropriate articles in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE category.
NOTE:T his article is generic in nature and all inform ation does not apply to all vehicles. For vehicle specific
inform ation, see the appropriate articles in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE category.
Problem & Possible CauseAction
Carbon Fouled Plugs
C l o gge d Air Fil t e rReplace Air Filter
Incorrect Idle SpeedReset Idle Speed
Faulty Ignition WiringReplace Ignition Wiring
Sticky Valves/Worn Valve SealCheck Valve Train
Fuel Injection OperationCheck Fuel Injection
Wet/Oil Fouled Plugs
Worn Rings/PistonsOverhaul/Replace Engine
Excessive Cylinder WearOverhaul/Replace Engine
Plug Gap Bridged
Combustion Chamber Carbon DepositsClean Combustion
Chamber
Blistered Electrode
Engine OverheatingCheck Cooling System
Loose Spark PlugsClean/Torque Plugs
Over-Advanced TimingReset Timing
Wrong Plug Heat RangeInstall Correct Plug
Melted Electrodes
Incorrect TimingReset Timing
Burned ValvesReplace Valves
Engine OverheatingCheck Cooling System
Wrong Plug Heat RangeInstall Correct Plug
Engine Won't Start
Loose ConnectionsCheck Connections
No PowerCheck Fuses/Battery
Loose/Worn Timing Belt/Chain/GearsCheck Belt/Chain/Gears
Engine Runs Rough
Leaky/Clogged Fuel InjectorsRepair Fuel Injectors
Leaky/Clogged Fuel LinesRepair Fuel Lines
Clogged Fuel FilterReplace Fuel Filter
Incorrect TimingReset Timing/Check
Advance
Faulty Plugs/WiresReplace Plugs/Wires
Uneven CompressionOverhaul/Replace Engine
Poor Acceleration
Incorrect Ignition TimingReset Timing
Leaky ValvesCheck Compression
Component Failure
Spark ArcingReplace Faulty Part
Defective Pick-Up CoilReplace Pick-Up Coil
Defective Ignition CoilReplace Ignition Coil
Defective Control UnitReplace Control Unit
Ignition Diagnosis By Scope Pattern
All Firing Lines Abnormally High
Retarded Ignition TimingReset Ignition Timing
Lean Air/Fuel MixtureAdjust Fuel Mixture
High Secondary ResistanceRepair Secondary
Ign it io n
All Firing Lines Abnormally Low
Rich Air/Fuel MixtureAdjust Air/Fuel Mixture
Arcing Coil WireReplace Coil Wire
Cracked CoilReplace Coil
Low Coil OutputReplace Coil
Low CompressionCheck/Repair Engine
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FUEL INJECTION TROUBLE SHOOTING
Se ve r a l High F ir in g Lin e s
Fuel Mixture UnbalancedCheck Fuel System
EGR Valve Stuck OpenClean/Replace EGR
Valve
High Plug Wire ResistanceReplace Plug Wire
Cracked/Broken PlugsReplace Plugs
Intake Vacuum LeakRepair Leak
Several Low Firing Lines
Fuel Mixture UnbalancedAdjust Fuel Mixture
Plug Wires ArcingReplace Plug Wires
Cracked Coil ArcingReplace Coil
Uneven CompressionCheck/Repair Engine
Faulty Spark PlugsReplace Plugs
Cylinders Not Firing
Cracked Distributor CapReplace Cap
Shorted Plug WiresReplace Plug Wires
Mechanical Engine FaultCheck/Repair Engine
Spark Plugs FouledReplace Plugs
Carbon Track in Distributor CapReplace Cap
Hard Starting
Defective Ignition Coil(s)Replace Coil(s)
Fouled Spark PlugsReplace Plugs
Incorrect TimingReset Ignition Timing
NOTE:T his article is generic in nature and all inform ation does not apply to all vehicles. For vehicle specific
inform ation, see the appropriate articles in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE category.
Problem & Possible CauseAction
Cold Start Valve InoperativeTest Cold Start Valve
Poor Vacuum/Electrical ConnectionRepair Connections
Contaminated FuelTest Fuel for Water/Alcohol
Bad Fuel Pump Relay/CircuitTest Relay/Wiring
Battery Voltage LowCharge/Test Battery
Low Fuel PressureTest Press. Regulator/Pump
No Distributor Reference PulseRepair Ignition System
Coolant Temp. Sensor DefectiveTest Temp. Sensor/Circuit
No Power To InjectorsCheck Injector Fuse/Relay
Hard Starting
Defective Idle Air Control (IAC)Test IAC and Circuit
EGR Valve OpenTest EGR Valve/Control
Circuit
Restricted Fuel LinesInspect/Replace Fuel Lines
Poor MAP Sensor SignalTest MAP Sensor/Circuit
Engine Stalls During Parking ManeuverCheck P.S. Press. Switch
Rough Idle
Dirty Fuel InjectorsClean/Replace Injectors
Poor MAP Sensor SignalTest MAP Sensor/Circuit
Intermittent Fuel Injector OperationCheck Harness Connectors
Erratic Vehicle Speed Sensor InputsHarness Too Close to Plug
Wires
Poor O2 Sensor SignalTest O2 Sensor/Circuit
Faulty PCV SystemCheck PCV Valve and
Hoses
Poor Acceleration
Weak Fuel PumpReplace Fuel Pump
Dirty Fuel InjectorsClean/Replace Injectors
Excessive Intake Valve DepositsClean Intake System
Poor High Speed Operation
Low Fuel Pump VolumeFaulty Fuel Pump/Filter
Poor MAP Sensor SignalTest Speed Sensor/Circuit
Acceleration Ping/Knock
Faulty EGR SystemCheck EGR Valve and
Hoses
Poor Knock Sensor SignalTest Knock Sensor/Circuit
Poor Baro Sensor SignalTest Baro Sensor/Circuit
Improper Ignition TimingAdjust Timing
Engine OverheatingCheck Cooling System
Poor Quality FuelUse Different Fuel
Carbon Build-UpDecarbon Engine
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carburetor. As the exhaust gas quickly warms the intake mixture, distribution is improved. This results in better cold engine driveability,
shorter choke periods and lower emissions.
Ensure EFE valve in exhaust manifold is not frozen or rusted in a fixed position. On vacuum-actuated EFE system, check EFE thermal vacuu
m
valve and check valve(s). Also check for proper vacuum hose routing. See Fig. 19
.

Fig. 19: Typical Vacuum
-Actuated EFE System
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
EMISSION MAINTENANCE REMINDER LIGHT (EMR)
If equipped, the EMR light (some models may use a reminder flag) reminds vehicle operator that an emission system maintenance is required.
This indicator is activated after a predetermined time/mileage.
When performing a smog check inspection, ensure EMR indicator is not activated. On models using an EMR light, light should glow when
ignition switch is turned to ON position and should turn off when engine is running.
If an EMR flag is present or an EMR light stays on with engine running, fail vehicle and service or replace applicable emission-related
components. To reset an EMR indicator, refer to appropriate MAINTENANCE REMINDER LIGHTS article in GENERAL INFORMATION.
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT (MIL)
The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is used to alert vehicle operator that the computerized engine control system has detected a
malfunction (when it stays on all the time with engine running). On some models, the MIL may also be used to display trouble codes.
As a bulb and system check, malfunction indicator light will glow when ignition switch is turned to ON position and engine is not running.
When engine is started, light should go out.
Copyr ight 2009 Mitchell Repair Information Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Article GUID: A00130226
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Engine Perform ance Diagnostic Routine Outline
* PLEASE READ THIS FIRST *
WHERE DOES DRIVEABILITY DIAGNOSIS START?
PERFORM BASIC INSPECTION
1. Verify Customer Complaint
2. Perform Visual Inspection (See Basic Diagnostic Procedures)
3. Test Engine Sub-Systems (See Basic Diagnostic Procedures)
Mechanical Condition (Compression)
Ignition Output
Fuel Delivery
4. Check Air Induction System For Leaks
5. Check & Adjust Basic Engine Settings(See On-Vehicle Adjustments)
Ignition Timing
Idle Speed
CHECK FOR TROUBLE CODES
1. Check for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).(See Self-Diagnostics)
2. Repair cause of DTCs.
3. Clear PCM memory and repeat self-test.
DIAGNOSE SYMPTOM
1. If no self-diagnostics available, or no trouble codes present, identify symptom.
2. See trouble shooting procedure to identify problem. (See Trouble Shooting - No Codes)
TEST SYSTEM
1. Perform required tests. (See Systems & Component Testing)
2. Verify complaint is repaired. NOTE:T his article is generic in nature and all inform ation does not apply to all vehicles. For vehicle specific
inform ation, see the appropriate articles in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE category.
NOTE:T his article is generic in nature and all inform ation does not apply to all vehicles. For vehicle specific
inform ation, see the appropriate articles in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE category.
NOTE:T his article is generic in nature and all inform ation does not apply to all vehicles. For vehicle specific
inform ation, see the appropriate articles in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE category.
NOTE:T his article is generic in nature and all inform ation does not apply to all vehicles. For vehicle specific
inform ation, see the appropriate articles in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE category.
NOTE:T his article is generic in nature and all inform ation does not apply to all vehicles. For vehicle specific
inform ation, see the appropriate articles in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE category.
Copyr ight 2009 Mitchell Repair Information Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Article GUID: A00002341
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Engine Perform ance Safety Precautions
Always refer to Emission Decal in engine compartment before servicing vehicle. If manual and decal differ, always use decal
specifications.
Do not allow or create a condition of misfire in more than one cylinder for an extended period of time. Damage to converter may occur
due to loading converter with unburned air/fuel mixture.
Always turn ignition off and disconnect negative battery cable BEFORE disconnecting or connecting computer or other electrical
components.
DO NOT drop or shock electrical components such as computer, airflow meter, etc.
DO NOT use fuel system cleaning compounds that are not recommended by the manufacturer. Damage to gaskets, diaphragm materials
and catalytic converter may result.
Before performing a compression test or cranking engine using a remote starter switch, disconnect coil wire from distributor and secure it
to a good engine ground, or disable ignition.
Before disconnecting any fuel system component, ensure fuel system pressure is released.
Use a shop towel to absorb any spilled fuel to prevent fire.
DO NOT create sparks or have an open flame near battery.
If any fuel system components such as hoses or clamps are replaced, ensure they are replaced with components designed for fuel system
use.
Always reassemble throttle body components with new gaskets, "O" rings and seals.
If equipped with an inertia switch, DO NOT reset switch until fuel system has been inspected for leaks.
We a r sa fe t y go ggl e s wh e n d r il l in g o r gr in d in g.
Wear proper clothing which protects against chemicals and other hazards.
Copyr ight 2009 Mitchell Repair Information Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Article GUID: A00002342
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GENERAL INFORMATION
How To Use The Engine Perform ance Section - 1989 & Newer Models
* PLEASE READ THIS FIRST *
HOW TO USE THE ENGINE PERFORMANCE SECTION
Congratulations, you have purchased the most advanced automotive repair and service information available. This information can help you, as
a professional automotive technician, to maintain top vehicle performance, and correct driveability problems on today's high-tech vehicles.
For your convenience and ease in use, all of our engine performance service and repair information is consistently organized by manufacturer,
using a progressive diagnostic/workflow approach. Due to the differences in how each manufacturer approaches diagnosis and repair, once
started and inside of an article, that manufacturer may drive the workflow in a direction other than what is outlined here.
The progressive diagnostic/workflow of our data is as follows:
APPLICATION to identify vehicle and system usage.
EMISSION APPLICATION to identify emission system usage.
SPECIFICATIONS to quickly find an engine performance service specification.
ADJUSTMENTS to perform engine performance related routine adjustments.
THEORY & OPERATION to familiarize yourself with new systems and technologies.
BASIC DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES located under TESTING & DIAGNOSTICS, also referred to as BASIC TESTING, is used for
performing a basic vehicle inspection and is also the starting point for diagnosis of a "no-start" condition.
SELF-DIAGNOSTICS located under TESTING & DIAGNOSTICS, also referred to as TESTS W/CODES, is where manufacturer
specific procedures for retrieving, identifying and diagnosing DTCs (trouble codes) retained in a control modules memory are located.
TROUBLE SHOOTING - NO CODES located under TESTING & DIAGNOSTICS, also referred to as TESTS W/O CODES, is where
an engine performance problem that does not set a DTC can be potentially isolated through either a SYMPTOM or INTERMITTENTS
duplication procedure.
SYSTEM & COMPONENT TESTING located under TESTING & DIAGNOSTICS, also referred to as SYSTEM/COMPONENT
TESTS, once directed to this article, specific system and component tests can be performed to help isolate faulty component/system
prior to replacement.
PIN VOLTAGE CHARTS provide supplemental information to help determine correct control module input and output signals. Pin
charts may also be referred to as PID charts by some manufacturers.
SENSOR RANGE CHARTS help determine if a sensor is out of calibration. In some cases an out-of-calibration sensor will not set a
DTC (trouble code), resulting in difficult to diagnose driveability symptoms.
VACUUM DIAGRAMS help determine correct routing of vacuum hoses when reinstalling components or performing emission
inspections.
REMOVE, OVERHAUL & INSTALL provides procedures necessary for removing and installing engine performance related
components.
WIRING DIAGRAMS can be used to identify circuits, terminals, wire colors and components referenced in testing procedures. NEW
COLOR WIRING DIAGRAMS (system diagrams) provide an easy method of identifying and tracing circuits.
APPLICATION
INTRODUCTION/ENGINE/VIN ID
Here you will find out how to identify an engine by its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The manufacturer's MODEL COVERAGE chart
lists each model and engine option, the fuel system, ignition system and engine code. Engine serial number locations are also shown here, as
well as the VIN code breakdown. Using model lookup in conjunction with VIN and engine ID will identify application information necessary
for servicing vehicle and ordering parts.
EMISSION APPLICATIONS
EMISSION APPLICATION TABLES
Here you will find a chart listing what emission control devices apply to each model. This can be helpful when performing government-
required emissions inspections. For quick reference, major emission systems and devices are listed in bold type in the emission table. Sub
components are listed in light type.
SPECIFICATIONS
NOTE:T his article is generic in nature and all inform ation does not apply to all vehicles. For vehicle specific
inform ation, see the appropriate articles in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE category.
NOTE:T his article is generic in nature and all inform ation does not apply to all vehicles. For vehicle specific
inform ation, see the appropriate articles in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE category.
NOTE:T his article is generic in nature and all inform ation does not apply to all vehicles. For vehicle specific
inform ation, see the appropriate articles in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE category.
NOTE:T his article is generic in nature and all inform ation does not apply to all vehicles. For vehicle specific
inform ation, see the appropriate articles in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE category.
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SERVICE & ADJUSTMENT SPECIFICATIONS
If you want a specification quickly, this is the place to look. Instead of hunting through a long article, we've separated out the important
specifications and arranged them into easy-to-use tables in a centralized location. You can find valuable information like spark plug wire
resistance, valve clearance, timing, firing orders, etc.
ADJUSTMENT
ON-VEHICLE ADJUSTMENTS
The ON-VEHICLE ADJUSTMENTS article contains the type of information that was previously thought of as TUNE-UP information.
Procedures for checking and adjusting valves, base ignition timing and idle speed are found in this section. Use this section in conjunction with
SERVICE & ADJUSTMENT SPECIFICATIONS for performing routine maintenance. Also, if you have a driveability problem, ensure all on-
vehicle adjustments are within specification before attempting further diagnosis.
THEORY & OPERATION
This article covers basic THEORY & OPERATION of engine performance-related systems and components. Before diagnosing vehicles or new
systems with which you are not completely familiar, read this article.
TESTING & DIAGNOSTICS
BASIC DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES/BASIC TESTING
The procedures listed in this article can help you avoid skipping a simple step early, like checking base timing, which could be costly in both
time and money later. This is also a potential starting point for diagnosis of a "no-start" condition. If all systems check out okay here, proceed
to SELF-DIAGNOSTICS/TESTS W/CODES or TROUBLE SHOOTING - NO CODES/TESTS W/O CODES article.
SELF-DIAGNOSTICS/TESTS W/CODES
Use this information to retrieve and interpret Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) accessed from the vehicle's self-diagnostic system. Once
information is retrieved, manufacturer diagnostic procedures are given to help pinpoint and repair computer system/component faults. Also
included are steps for clearing trouble codes once these faults are repaired. If there is a driveability symptom with no trouble codes set,
proceed to TROUBLE SHOOTING - NO CODES/TESTS W/O CODES article.
TROUBLE SHOOTING - NO CODES/TESTS W/O CODES
This is where to go when you have a problem that does not set a trouble code. It can help determine cause of problem using driveability
symptoms and intermittent testing procedures. Procedures in this information should lead you to a specific component or system test.
SYSTEM & COMPONENT TESTING
Here you will find various tests for engine performance systems and their components, such as air induction (turbochargers and superchargers),
fuel control, ignition control and emission systems.
PIN VOLTAGE CHARTS
These are supplied (when available from manufacturer) to quicken the diagnostic process. By checking pin voltages at the Powertrain Control
Module (PCM), you can determine if the PCM is receiving and/or transmitting proper voltage signals. Pin charts may also be referred to as PID
charts by some manufacturers.
SENSOR RANGE CHARTS
SENSOR OPERATING RANGE CHARTS
These are supplied (when available from manufacturer) to determine if a sensor is out of calibration. An out-of-calibration sensor may not set a
trouble code, but it may cause driveability problems.
VACUUM DIAGRAMS
NOTE:T his article is generic in nature and all inform ation does not apply to all vehicles. For vehicle specific
inform ation, see the appropriate articles in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE category.
NOTE:T his article is generic in nature and all inform ation does not apply to all vehicles. For vehicle specific
inform ation, see the appropriate articles in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE category.
NOTE:T his article is generic in nature and all inform ation does not apply to all vehicles. For vehicle specific
inform ation, see the appropriate articles in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE category.
NOTE:T his article is generic in nature and all inform ation does not apply to all vehicles. For vehicle specific
inform ation, see the appropriate articles in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE category.
NOTE:T his article is generic in nature and all inform ation does not apply to all vehicles. For vehicle specific
inform ation, see the appropriate articles in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE category.
NOTE:T his article is generic in nature and all inform ation does not apply to all vehicles. For vehicle specific
inform ation, see the appropriate articles in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE category.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Parasitic Load Explanation & T est Procedures
* PLEASE READ THIS FIRST *
GENERAL INFORMATION
The term Parasitic Load refers to electrical devices that continue to use or draw current after the ignition switch is turned to OFF position. This
small amount of continuous battery draw is expressed in milliamps (mA). On Chrysler vehicles, a typical Parasitic Load should be no more
than 30 milliamps (0.030 amps). On Ford Motor Co. and General Motors vehicles produced after 1980, a typical Parasitic Load should be no
more than 50 milliamps (0.050 amps).
Vehicles produced since 1980 have memory devices that draw current with ignition off for as long as 20 minutes before shutting down the
Parasitic Drain. When Parasitic Load exceeds normal specifications, the vehicle may exhibit dead battery and no-start condition.
Follow test procedure for checking Parasitic Loads to completion. A brief overview of a suggested test procedure is included along with some
typical Parasitic Load specifications. Refer to GENERAL MOTORS PARASITIC LOAD TABLE chart.
TESTING FOR PARASITIC LOAD
The battery circuit must be opened to connect test switch (shunt) and ammeter into the circuit. When a battery cable is removed, timer circuits
within the vehicle computer are interrupted and immediately begin to discharge. If in doubt about the condition of the ammeter fuse, test it
with an ohmmeter prior to beginning test. An open fuse will show the same reading (00.00) as no parasitic drain. Begin test sequence with the
meter installed and on the 10-amp scale. Select lower scale to read parasitic draw.
CHRYSLER IGNITION OFF DRAW (IOD) TEST
To test for excessive IOD, verify that all electrical accessories are OFF. Turn off all lights, remove ignition key, and close all doors and decklid.
If the vehicle is equipped with electronic accessories (illuminated entry, automatic load leveler, body computer, or high line radio), allow the
system to automatically shut off (time out), up to 3 minutes.
1. Raise the hood and disconnect both battery cables, negative first.
2. Reconnect the negative cable and connect a typical 12-volt test light (low wattage bulb) between the positive cable clamp and the
positive battery post. Remove the engine compartment lamp bulb. If the test light does not light, proceed to step 3
. If the test light does
light, proceed to step, 4
. The test light will indicate IOD greater than 3 amps. After higher amperage IOD has been corrected, proceed to
step 3
.
3. ith 12-volt test light still connected (not lit), connect an ammeter (milliampere scale) between the positive cable clamp and the positive
battery post, disconnect test light, refer to instructions provided with ammeter being used. A reading of 30 milliamperes or less indicates
normal electrical draw. If ammeter reads more than 30 milliamperes, excessive IOD must be corrected.
4. Locate the fuse panel and remove fuses or circuit breakers one at a time, and observe ammeter after each fuse or circuit breaker is
removed. If test light goes out and the reading drops below 30 milliamperes when a certain fuse or circuit breaker is removed, that circuit
may have a defect.
5. If IOD is detected after all fuses and circuit breakers have been removed, disconnect the 60-way connector at the Single Module Engine
Control (SMEC), located outboard of the battery.
6. If excessive IOD is detected after all fused circuits and SMEC have been verified, disconnect the B+ terminal from the alternat o r. If
reading drops below 30 milliamperes, reinstall all fuses and circuit breakers, reconnect B+ terminal at alternator, reconnect battery, and
perform alternator diagnostics.
7. Install engine compartment lamp bulb.
TEST PROCEDURE USING TEST SWITCH
1. Turn ignition off. Remove negative battery terminal cable. Install Disconnect Tool (J-38758) test switch male end to negative battery
cable. Turn test switch knob to OFF position (current through meter). Install negative battery cable to the female end of test switch. NOTE:This is GENERAL inform ation. This article is not intended to be specific to any unique situation or
individual vehicle configuration. For m odel-specific inform ation see appropriate articles where
available.
NOTE:This is GENERAL inform ation. This article is not intended to be specific to any unique situation or
individual vehicle configuration. For m odel-specific inform ation see appropriate articles where
available.
NOTE:This is GENERAL inform ation. This article is not intended to be specific to any unique situation or
individual vehicle configuration. For m odel-specific inform ation see appropriate articles where
available.
CAUT ION: Always turn ignition off when connecting or disconnecting battery cables, battery chargers or jum per
cables. DO NOT turn test switch to OFF position (which causes current to run through am m eter or
vehicle electrical system ).
NOTE:Mem ory functions of various accessories m ust be reset after the battery is reconnected.
CAUT ION: IOD greater than 3 am ps m ay dam age m illam pm eter.
Page 1 of 4 MITCHELL 1 ARTICLE - GENERAL INFORMATION Parasitic Load Explanation & Test Procedures
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2. Turn test switch knob to ON position (current through switch). Road test vehicle with vehicle accessories on (radio, air conditioner, etc).
After road test, turn ignition switch to LOCKED position and remove key. Connect ammeter terminals to test switch terminals. See Fig.
1. Select 10-amp scale.
3. Turn off all electrical accessories. Turn off interior lights, underhood lamp, trunk light, illuminated entry, etc. To avoid damaging
ammeter or obtaining a false meter reading, all accessories must be off before turning test switch knob to OFF position.
4. Turn test switch knob to OFF position to allow current to flow through ammeter. If meter reads wrong polarity, turn test switch to ON
position and reverse leads. Turn test switch to OFF position. Observe current reading. If reading is less than 2 amps, turn test switch to
ON position to keep electrical circuits powered-up.
5. Select low amp scale. Switch lead to the correct meter position. Turn test switch to OFF position and compare results to normal current
draw. See GENERAL MOTORS PARASITIC LOAD TABLE (MILLIAMPS)
. If current draw is unusually high for the vehicle's
overall electrical system, remove system fuses one at a time until current draw returns to normal.
6. Turn test switch to ON position each time door is opened or fuse is removed. Turn switch to OFF position to read current draw va l u e
through meter. When the cause of excessive current drain has been located and repaired, remove test switch and reconnect negative
battery cable to the negative battery terminal.
INTERMITTENT PARASITIC LOAD PROBLEMS
Intermittent parasitic load can occur because of a memory device that does not power down with ignition off. With an intermittent parasitic
load, battery draw can be greater than 1.0 amp.
To find an intermittent problem requires that an ammeter and Disconnect Tool (J-38758) test switch be connected and left in the circuit. See
Fig. 1
. Road test vehicle. After road test, turn ignition off and remove key.
Monitor the milliamps scale for 15-20 minutes after ignition is turned off. This allows monitoring memory devices to determine if they time out
and stop drawing memory current. The test switch is needed to protect ammeter when the vehicle is started.

Fig. 1: Connecting Kent
-Moore Disconnect Tool (J-38758)
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
GENERAL MOTORS PARASITIC LOAD
ComponentNormal DrawMaximum DrawTime-Out (Minutes)
Anti-Theft System0.41.0.....
Auto Door Lock1.01.0.....
Body Control Module3.612.420
Central Processing System1.62.720
Electronic Control Module5.610.0.....
Electronic Level Control2.03.320
Heated Windshield Module0.30.4.....
HVAC Power Module1.01.0.....
Illuminated Entry1.01.01
Light Control Module0.51.0.....
Oil Level Module0.10.1.....
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