Odd electrical issue

[boboon]

Hi all, I have a 1966 121 combination with an odd issue. On occasion when driving I lose some electrical functions. The indicators, horn, brake lights, wipers all stop working and if I attempt to use one the charge lights comes on and the fuel gauge falls, recovering when switch released. Engine runs fine during this. I have checked all obvious connections etc, and suddenly the issue disappears, to reappear in another 20 miles or so, any ideas? I am thinking earth issue?. Any help. Thanks

[Clan]

Originally Posted by boboon

Hi all, I have a 1966 121 combination with an odd issue. On occasion when driving I lose some electrical functions. The indicators, horn, brake lights, wipers all stop working and if I attempt to use one the charge lights comes on and the fuel gauge falls, recovering when switch released. Engine runs fine during this. I have checked all obvious connections etc, and suddenly the issue disappears, to reappear in another 20 miles or so, any ideas? I am thinking earth issue?. Any help. Thanks

could be a faulty ignition switch or more likely a corroded fuse ...

[Ron Kwas]

bb;

Symptoms sound like the classic corroded Fuse 1 issue, which is starting by being intermittent. See: http://www.sw-em.com/AMP_Indicator_ON.htm Condition 3.

Good Hunting!

[Faust]

As others have said, I'd look at fuse number 1 (the stubby 25 amp fella).

With the ignition off (!), remove fusebox cover, pull the fuse out and inspect. If it's not blown (i.e. the wire has snapped) clean up the contacts and re-fit the fuse.

While you're there, inspect all the other fuses and contacts to make sure all is well. My fusebox was playing up a while back so I replaced the whole thing - think the replacement was about 30 quid from Brookhouse.

You can bypass the fuse with an inline fuse holder containing a more modern blade fuse if you have to - put a spade terminal at either end and 'bridge' the original fuse.

It's a 'get you home' fix rather than a permanent solution in my opinion though as it means you haven't solved the original issue.

[amazon69]

When I replaced my fuse box a few years ago it sorted out loads of niggly and annoying problems. There's quite a few more contact areas in there than you imagine.

[boboon]

Thanks all for your pointers, will investigate.