Optima deep-cycle battery |
Powermaster high-output XSVOLT alternator |
GM HEI distributor |
ACCEL Ultra-Lite high-torque starter |
Halogen sealed-beam headlight |
Painless universal ignition switch |
Painless Hot Shot relay |
Painless 12-circuit compact universal fuse block. |
Electrical work does not have to be a mystery. Unlike bodywork (which is more akin to art than science), electricity is governed by immutable laws of nature, so getting a handle on electrical gremlins is not a circuitous enigma. Its totally amenable to a logical, step-by-step troubleshooting approach. All it takes is fusing mechanical expertise with current sense. To help our readers find out watts happening so they can ohm-in on the cause of their charging and starting system ailments before the sickness becomes terminal, we got wired-in by electrical experts Painless Performance, received the acid truth from battery manufacturer Optima, and obtained a full-charging account from Powermaster, manufacturer of extreme high-output street and racing alternators.
These companies current thinking on diagnosing (and curing) common electrical ills forms the basis for the following diagnostic procedures, which should be followed step-by-step in numeric order. Although the photos are specifically applicable to GM vehicles, the overall procedure is similar for other makes, except as noted. Performing the tests requires a test light, jumper wires, and a multimeter capable of reading volts and ohms. The procedures do not require an ammeter; while a nice tool to have, one thats capable of reading high-current automotive electrical circuits is fairly expensive.
Finally, a special thanks to Alex Koufos (72 Chevelle and 80 El Camino) and Mark Farhat (71 Chevelle) for spending a Sunday afternoon serving as photo guinea-pigs.
Check out the sidebars below to help sort out your electrical woes.