Electrical issues

Hey,
So the ignition button on my '82 maxim 650 had a short in it, but since remedying that, I don't seem to be getting enough power. I turned on my turn signal, and lost all power, cancelled it and it came back. When idling, I have to keep on the gas and its backfiring a bit. The brake light makes it wanna stall out.
Any ideas on what I should be checking?
The short happened because my ignition button fell out and the spring was loose inside. I'm not sure how long it was like that, maybe 10 miles, but I figured out the trouble when my oil light came on.
Thanks!
Ken

 

Sounds like you have bad electrical connections, possible charging system issues and maybe battery issues.
First take the battery somewhere to get "load" tested.
Second , once battery is deemed good then check your charging system voltage. Three readings, idle, 1500 and 2500 RPM. The idea is to see how your system performs over the rpm range. I like to see over 14 volts on the high end. If its low the brushes in the alternator may be worn out. I use a cheap analog meter and I know its not all that accurate, so in my case if I get over 14 volts I am in good shape.
Third, inspect every electrical connector, clean and treat with dielectric tune up grease. Available at any auto parts store.

 

Thanks, I meant to write in there that I've already tested the battery, which is good (and only a few months old). I'll do the other testing asap. The only thing that sticks out to me as a different problem is I guess I forgot to mention I was at highway speed maybe around 60 when the turn signal killed my power. And I mean killed. Lost all my lights and I think my spark as well. I was quick to cancel it and luckily the power came back (it was night so no lights as I'm coasting on the freeway was less than comfortable).
Cheers.

 

Easy enough. Looks like just a bad connection on my battery.
I guess I just needed some daylight.
Thanks!

 

Never trust anything because it can be the simplest thing and somethings we overlook them because we already did something to it. Good find and hope it's working again like it should.

 

xj forever sells replacment buttons start a conversation with member chacal or click logo upper right

 

Might want to open the control switch and make certain the contact plate is clean and the wiring is a good solder connection. Losing all power at 60mph...yikes!

Gary H.

 

If you have the original fuse box (glass fuses), the first step would be to replace that. The clips of the original fuse box oxidize, get brittle, and generally cause problems.

If you seem to have a charging problem, you should check the condition of the plug and contacts where the alternator plugs into the regulator/rectifier. This is under the left side cover, and these contacts oxidize and then overheat.