2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission This happened to me! Warning!

[NETim]

This is the condensed version of the story. A few months back my rig blew the flasher and tail light fuses simultaneously. I noticed that after replacing the flasher fuse the RH dash indicator lamp was dimmer than the LH one was when the turn sigs were activated. A replacement fuse for the tail lights would blow immediately.



I noticed the RH front turn signal lamp was not lighting so I replaced it and no more fuse blowing. The lamp looked and checked good though.



Then the flasher fuse (20A) blew again a short time ago. I replaced it and it held but I was concerned. Obviously there was a problem. Previous inspections of the wiring harness showed no defects.



Tonight I did another inspection and I noticed that the insulation on the wires leading to the RH front turn signal assembly were ever so slightly cut. There was the problem. The wires had rubbed on the body. What caused this to happen was that Dodge had taped back the wires with a little tiny piece 1/4" black vinyl tape and it had broken. This allowed the wires to rub on the body. I shoulda noticed this the first time through!



I put a nice heavy nylon wire tie on the wires to hold them against the bulb socket and coated the cut insulation with some liquid black tape. It shouldn't happen again.



I don't know why the tape was broken but that tape isn't much.



Maybe bears inspection on your rig?



Tim

 

[Sticks]

Good catch. Could you be a little more specific as to the wire colors, and location (x inches from the bulb connection)?

 

[NETim]

Well, one was black, one yellow and one green if I remember right. The cut in the insulation was just at the point where the wire entered the bulb socket. I had to bend the wires over to actually see the cut.



And while I'm at it, I noticed that the LH side tape was not broken but it was not adhered well and the wires were not retained tightly to the bulb socket. I put a wire tie on that side too.



Nothing worse than intermittent electrical problems IMHO.



Tim

 

[Sticks]

Yeah, that is why I do not have power windows, locks, mirrors and seat. I hit Micky D's every day before work, and I see at least 2 vehicles per week that have to open their door to place their order, and pick up their food.