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Troubleshooting / Crank Engine All Electrical Stops

Crank Engine All Electrical Stops

Electricity is an elusive substance that can be easily interrupted by a bad connection or corrosion.  When an engine is cranked over it demands a high amount of electricity (amperage) from the battery.  As the electrical demand is increased heat will develop inside the wire or connection. This heat will disconnect (short circuit) the electrical flow until the connection cools. Since the battery provides the main electrical power to the remainder of the vehicle (lights, dash, interior) all electricity is shut off.  Once the connection cools it can reconnect starting the process all over again. We have listed below some of the most popular problems and repairs.

WARNING! Always wear protective eyewear, gloves and necessary clothing before inspection or work begins. Never crank an engine over when anyone is near the battery or engine. A battery is filled with explosive gasses that can ignite when extreme heat or a spark is present. A battery could have residual acid on the outside casing so use caution when handling a battery and the surrounding area. Use baking soda to neutralize any suspected acid residue before work begins.

Troubleshooting Procedure

1. Check Battery Cable Connection - The battery cable connection must be clean (free from corrosion) and tightly fastened to allow the flow of electricity from the battery to the starter. With the key in the off position located battery and inspect the battery cable connections. Battery cable connections must be tight and not wiggle on the battery terminal. If the cable is lose remove it and clean, then tighten the cable with a wrench or socket wrench. Use baking soda to neutralize any suspected acid residue before work begins.

Clean Battery
Clean and Tighten Battery Cables



2. Check Battery Cable Corrosion - The battery cables are used to transfer electrical power from the battery to the starter. Battery acid causes corrosion inside the battery cable and will inhibiting electrical flow. To check for this condition look for bulges near the top of the cable, these bulges indicate corrosion expansion caused by the chemical reaction between the acid and copper wire. Remove the failed battery cable to replace with new unit, then check charging system to ensure proper operation.

3. Inspect Battery for Bulging - The battery supplies electrical power to the vehicle, when a battery short circuits internally it can cause the car to loose power and regain it back again. Inspect the battery, if the sides are bulging it could have a warped plate that can short under certain conditions. The problem is to check for the condition the battery needs to be disassembled which is very difficult. This problem is rare but it does happen.

NOTE: Regular Battery Cable Maintenance

Troubleshooting / Crank Engine All Electrical Stops

Check Manufacturer Specific Engine Cranks then Stops Questions and Answers

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