Cutting out when turning on lights

Discussion in 'Technical' started by Scotcaz, Jul 26, 2010.

  1. Scotcaz

    Scotcaz Member

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    Tried a search but not sure what I am looking for so apologies if this question has been asked before!

    I know the carb set up isn't quite right but I ended up stranded the other evening when I needed the lights. The engine just kept dying. Eventually got it to keep running if I turned the lights on then started the but even then it was struggling. I'll have to add this was in the pouring rain and think something must be shorting somewhere.

    Alternator charges fine and there is no earthing problems.

    Apologies if this is a simple fix but I'm still learning!

    Thanks

    Caroline
     
  2. mike75mav

    mike75mav Member

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    Does the engine run good without lights? If it cuts out when you have the lights on than your battery is not charging. You need to check alternator, battery, voltage regulator. Also, check your belts if they are tight.
     
  3. rayzorsharp

    rayzorsharp I "AM" a Maverick!

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    Caroline, has anything been done to the car recently? I once found a similar problem when a guy added a stereo and wired it to the ignition and headlight switches. The fix was to just disconnect the radio and wire it properly. You might also have a shorted headlight switch. You'll get lots more responses to this question. Hopefully someone will help you figure it out. Good luck with it.
     
  4. Scotcaz

    Scotcaz Member

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    Hey guys, Appreciate your responses! Alternator is still charging fine so don't think it's that. There are gauges wired in that are after Market and might be what's upsetting it! Think the wiring in general is a little but bodged and could probably do with being sorted! That's the sort of info I was looking for as some people didn't think it would cause it to cut out.
     
  5. apotter80

    apotter80 Member

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    my car did the same thing. It ended up being a broke wire in the harness going to voltage regulator, and battery was only charging intermittently because of it. once i finally tracked down the problem and replaced wire, it was like brand new and not a single problem since! good luck!
     
  6. justin has a 74

    justin has a 74 Maverick bandit official

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    Check your voltage regulator plug.
     

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