Troubleshooting Wiring Problems - Dodge 1997 Neon WIRING DIAGRAMS Owner's Manual

PL
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)
(3) Connect the other lead to the other end of the
circuit being tested. Low or no resistance means good
continuity.
Fig. 11 Testing for Continuity
TESTING FOR A SHORT TO GROUND
(1) Remove the fuse and disconnect all items
involved with the fuse.
(2) Connect a test light or a voltmeter across the
terminals of the fuse.
(3) Starting at the fuse block, wiggle the wiring
harness about six to eight inches apart and watch
the voltmeter/test lamp.
(4) If the voltmeter registers voltage or the test
lamp glows, there is a short to ground in that gen-
eral area of the wiring harness.
TESTING FOR A SHORT TO GROUND ON
FUSES POWERING SEVERAL LOADS
(1) Refer to the wiring diagrams and disconnect or
isolate all items on the fused circuit.
(2) Replace the blown fuse.
(3) Supply power to the fuse by turning ON the
ignition switch or re-connecting the battery.
(4) Start connecting the items in the fuse circuit
one at a time. When the fuse blows the circuit with
the short to ground has been isolated.
TESTING FOR A VOLTAGE DROP
(1) Connect the positive lead of the voltmeter to
the side of the circuit closest to the battery (Fig. 12).
(2) Connect the other lead of the voltmeter to the
other side of the switch or component.
(3) Operate the item.
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(4) The voltmeter will show the difference in volt-
age between the two points.
Fig. 12 Testing for Voltage Drop

TROUBLESHOOTING WIRING PROBLEMS

When troubleshooting wiring problems there are
six steps which can aid in the procedure. The steps
are listed and explained below. Always check for non-
factory items added to the vehicle before doing any
diagnosis. If the vehicle is equipped with these items,
disconnect them to verify these add-on items are not
the cause of the problem.
(1) Verify the problem.
(2) Verify any related symptoms. Do this by per-
forming operational checks on components that are
in the same circuit. Refer to the wiring diagrams.
(3) Analyze the symptoms. Use the wiring dia-
grams to determine what the circuit is doing, where
the problem most likely is occurring and where the
diagnosis will continue.
(4) Isolate the problem area.
(5) Repair the problem.
(6) Verify proper operation. For this step check for
proper operation of all items on the repaired circuit.
Refer to the wiring diagrams.
SERVICE PROCEDURES
WIRING REPAIR
When replacing or repairing a wire, it is important
that the correct gauge be used as shown in the wir-
ing diagrams. The wires must also be held securely
in place to prevent damage to the insulation.
(1) Disconnect battery negative cable
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