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View Full Version : Need help ASAP! Gauge cluster does not work after alt install!? WTF!!!!!??


az_240
09-26-2008, 03:31 AM
Just installed an alternator out of a 89 240sx into my 1997 240sx.

I also installed some new battery terminals.

Now my gauge cluster does not work at all.

The little clock lights up but there is no time. Gauges do not move and lights do not turn on.

Radio lights and such are fine.

Is it something with the alternator?

lemme know

Thanks


Edit: I just checked my tail lights and turn signals and they are out as well.

Edit x2:

Checked my fuses and the main blue 100A fuse in the engine bay was blown. I cant even remove the damn thing... Is this fuse even replaceable?


So I'm assuming the sohc alternator will not work on a dohc?

projectRDM
09-26-2008, 09:04 AM
The alternator is the same, besides a smaller charging stud.

Remove the 100A fusible link by unbolting it from each side. It doesn't slide out like the smaller ones. Next time, disconnect the battery before servicing so you won't blow fuses when the unit leads ground to the chassis.

az_240
09-26-2008, 04:24 PM
Battery was disconnected during install.

What else could it be?

Im thinking I need a new alternator which will set me back almost $200 which I REALLY CANT AFFORD RIGHT NOW.

Please if anybody has any more info it is greatly appreciated. I need this bitch running again ASAP

projectRDM
09-26-2008, 04:49 PM
Battery was disconnected during install.

What else could it be?

Im thinking I need a new alternator which will set me back almost $200 which I REALLY CANT AFFORD RIGHT NOW.

Please if anybody has any more info it is greatly appreciated. I need this bitch running again ASAP

Remans are about $140. Rebuilding the old one is about $70. Have you checked ALL the fuses, inside and out? And you're certain you've hooked it up right, IE the charging stud is connected to the battery, through the plastic insulator? Some people get confused and swap the charge lead and ground lead which will blow all kinds of shit quick.

az_240
09-26-2008, 07:02 PM
charging stud on the alternator? the thing with the red boot? it is connected.

not sure about a plastic insulator...... how would someone swap the charge and ground????? like what wires and where? maybe thats what I did...???

projectRDM
09-26-2008, 07:08 PM
The lead coming from the fusebox goes to the charging stud. There's a plastic insulator that keeps it from grounding on the alternator case. They can break easily from overtightening. This will ground it out.
The ground lead bolts to the case. People in the past have got them confused and bolted the ground to the charging stud. Once the battery is reconnected the 100A link is directly connected to ground, thus blowing it.

az_240
09-26-2008, 07:16 PM
AHHHHH!!! I think I found my problem!!!!!!!!

the plastic insulator! I remember there was not one on the alternator I got..... I did not think anything of it....

Ahh man you are a freaking LIFE SAVER!

I seriously love you


Edit:

Sure enough that was the problem.... put the plastic insulator back on the alternator stud and all is good. I would have never figured it out if it wasnt for RDM.

Thanks again

xplicit240
09-26-2008, 07:46 PM
thats RNA friendly neighborhood Zilvian.

i came too late to help but glad to see your out of trouble.

projectRDM
09-26-2008, 10:27 PM
AHHHHH!!! I think I found my problem!!!!!!!!

the plastic insulator! I remember there was not one on the alternator I got..... I did not think anything of it....

Ahh man you are a freaking LIFE SAVER!

I seriously love you


Edit:

Sure enough that was the problem.... put the plastic insulator back on the alternator stud and all is good. I would have never figured it out if it wasnt for RDM.

Thanks again

You're welcome.