Wife came out of Sisters, started car, all normal, no signs of any probs. Put seat belt on (checked lipstick etc), engine just cut out. No spluttering, just died. Starter motor cranks the engine over, but, there are NO IGNITION lights. In fact, there are no dashdoard lights at all.
All "ignition fed" circuits are dead, headlights, wipers, windows etc.
Only "live" circuits are Hazard lights & sidelights.
I have looked at all fuses, in both fuse boxes. Cannot check relays without "trial & error" method, but, these are not all the same, rating or connection pins.
I'm desperate, it's my Daughter's baby (She's not too impressed with Mum at the mo) & any help could prevent a family crisis (not to mention the marriage!
Thanks in advance, Folks.

Bob K, April 2008

When I started my apprenticeship, many years ago, nearly all cars were fitted with a “dynamo & inertia type starter motor”.
Because some cars electrical systems had a “Positive Earth” system, these units had to be “Polarised” before starting the engine. This was to make sure the unit worked with the right polarity, for the cars electrical system.
The “older” guys I was working with called this, “excite the unit”. Eg;- have you excited the starter/dynamo before you start that car?
Using these thoughts, I tried this out;-
Using a circuit tester (the type that looks like a screwdriver with a wire on the end, Halfords @ £2.99 apiece), I placed the pointed probe end into the “live” feed on the back of the alternator, leaving the plug in place (still in the alternator). I then placed the other end of the tester (crocodile clip end) on to the Positive (+) terminal of the battery.
Hey Presto! Ignition circuit has now become live again. Leading me to now suspect the alternator was the problem. Have now replaced it, and ended all my Daughters fears about her “little baby”.
Many thanks to all you out there for your suggestions. I’m sure they made me think a lot harder, & come to the correct solution.
Bob.

Bob Kingham, April 2008

Hi jonathan, thanks for that, already checked that out. Not same setup as older fords/vauxhalls. No seperate multiplug, loom goes direct to rear of ignition switch, then splits in 2, with 2 mini-multi plugs. All ok there. Got me really stumped, Car serviced by main dealer whilst under warranty, now doing servicing myself, early retired mechanic. Passed on all my diagnostic tools etc to my Son, who now lives in NZ, only got small tool chest left, Sods Law!!!!!
Thanks anyway, Bob.

bobboss, April 2008

hi mate check igntion switch multi-plug on steering column area, multi- plug burns inside

jonathan, April 2008