NAS 90 - Electrics fault
Posted by Dave (Sussex UK) on November 22, 2000 at 14:45:10:
Had a few problems recently, including fuel gauge which reads less than is actually in tank. Thought I had run out of fuel this morning with the lights on, put in spare can (1 UK gallon) and vehicle started with lights off put foot on brake pedal to select drive engine cut. Restarted, turned on lights engine cut. Brain took a few attempts (it was 07-15!) and came up with the idea of no lights and no braking - got to work via the petrol station and the tank took less than a tankfull so as suspected did not run out of fuel but electrical fault suddenly cut engine.
Back at work found that when indicators on side lights also dimly flash, ignition only and fuel gauge reads full, turn ignition to start and engine running fuel gauge reads zero. Checked and cleaned all fuses, battery terminals, earth wire under battery compartment checked battery and alternator both OK. I suspect earth leakage is reducing voltage to ECU which stops engine (revs reduce and stalls).
Do I start looking in the loom around fuel tank area / rear lights or ignition switch? I think there is a voltage stabiliser in the instrument panel? could this be the problem? One other problem is the centre diff lock light not working (was 1 week ago) changed bulbs in instrument panel no change, checked connections to sender switch OK, checked diff lock and it works. Are these faults interconnected? Had a refurbished ZF auto and transfer box fitted by Ashcroft 3 weeks ago - any connection?
Any thoughts appreciated before I tear my hair out!
Regards Dave
