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Chrysler Repair/98 dodge G.Car - complete electric blackout

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Expert: Roland Finston - 7/4/2009


Question
Lights, gauges started flipping up and down, then black out, when stopped, completely dead now. No response when you turn the key.  could it be the BCM gone?

Answer
Hi Ed,

I doubt it is the body computer because the starter/ignition switch are not connected to that. I would check the battery clamps to make sure the posts are clean and tight. Also check the wires attached to the - post clamp and trace them to their ground point to be sure those are all clean/tight connections. It could be a battery cell that is opening up as well. Check the battery voltage with a voltmeter if you have one.
Get back to me later this evening when I will be available with the results of you check outs.
Roland

Chrysler Repair

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Roland Finston

Expertise

I take questions one at a time between 8am and 9pm CT and try to respond within 20 minutes. If I am shown as "MAXED OUT" try again at the 'top' of the hour as I may be answering another question or am otherwise busy. I specialize in Chrysler/Dodge/Plymouth cars, minivans, and SUV's for the model years 1982-2006 based upon my 50-year DIY experience, factory shop manuals and wiring diagrams. I offer fast repair advice to help you minimize repair costs by helping you diagnose and do it yourself. Problems with electronically controlled engines and transmissions as well as body wiring problems are my specialty. There are answers on file to more than fifteen thousand Chrysler questions at your finger tips: put a few key words in the "find" box (above) or click on "view past answers" for a chronological list of my q and a's. Don't use "Add to this answer" if you still have a question...ask it. I don't have manuals for truck or Jeep (except'04-'06).

Experience

Five decades as a 'do-it-yourselfer' on domestic and imported cars

Organizations
Yahoo Autos Group called The Chrysler Lebaron Club (co-moderator)

Education/Credentials
Degrees in Physics/bruised knuckles.

Awards and Honors
"Shortest average response time" at Allexperts (currently no. 1). "Top expert of 2010" at Allexperts. Among top 50 experts for years 2006-2009 at Allexperts. "Volunteer of the month" at Allexperts (June, 2011).

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