Unusual voltmeter readings on the console

matt_unique · Posted: Sat May 09, 2009 10:29 pm Post subject: Easy fix

Well I tested the port bat again today and no luck. As I began to remove it I discovered the wing nuts were loose. I tightened them down and she ran perfect...duh....well problem solved! Before heading out today I made sure the rest of them were good and snug.

thataway · Posted: Sat May 09, 2009 10:39 pm Post subject:

Ah--you should have told us you use wing nuts! They are not the best solution, even though many of us use them. I have switched over to regular nuts with lock washers. If you use wing nuts, use vise grips to get them really tight. Nylox nuts are not the solution because heat may melt the nylon. You might also consider an non corrosive grease on the nuts.

matt_unique · Posted: Sun May 10, 2009 9:02 am Post subject: Wing nuts

I used pliers to snug them all down. Lesson learned should I encounter the same behavior again.

When you turn the key and your gauges peg it means there is a short, in this case the short was right at the bat terminals. I had the right diagnosis but never thought to check the tightness of the terminals until I went to remove it.

Captains Cat · Posted: Sun May 10, 2009 9:33 am Post subject: Re: Wing nuts

matt_unique · Posted: Sun May 10, 2009 12:35 pm Post subject: Re: Wing nuts

thataway · Posted: Sun May 10, 2009 5:50 pm Post subject:

Without putting a volt meter on it we would not know for sure. But is is possible that there was some reversal of current flow with the open circuit. You probably were getting some current, but more resistance because of the loose connection. These need to be checked and cleaned reguarly--when you check the battery water if necessary.