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Classic/Antique Car Repair/electrical problem 1975 Plymouth Scamp

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Expert: - 10/5/2008


Question
My issue is that I have a 1975 Plymouth Scamp with a slant 6.  Recently when the headlights are on and I turn on another item I notice for a split second the dimming of the headlights.  Then when I turn on the heater/blower at idle speed or low speed driving, with the headlights on that the vehicle will shut off.  Has brand new battery, new regulator and the alternator was benched tested OK at local parts store.  I am looking for any help or ideas on where to go next in my search. ANy help will be greatly appreciated.  Thank you in advance.

Answer
In that era Chrysler built cars had a lot of problems with the main wiring harness connector that ran through the fire wall just to the outside of the steering column. That would be the first place that I would look for corroded and burned connections. Are you handy with a voltmeter? If so check the charging voltage at the battery with the engine running both without the lights on and with the lights on. That voltage should be above 13 volts. Let me know.
Brad

Classic/Antique Car Repair

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Brad Sears

Expertise

All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.

Experience

Automotive tech instructor. Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's. Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated. Auto instructor for the following companies: Fram Autolyte Holly Carter AMF Ford Motor University Of Conn Blue Hills Technical School Sugar River Technical Center Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.

Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.

Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember. Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.

Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.

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