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Classic/Antique Car Repair/electrical ground issue

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Expert: - 7/30/2008


Question
I have a 1966 Ford Mustang that I am told has a ground problem. One day while leaving a cruise night I turn the key to the on position and all of the gauges traveled to the extreme right. I had not done anything to the vehicle that would have influenced this happening. I realize that the electrical system in this vintage car is basic however I could use some advice on where to begin to trace this problem. I appreciate your time on my behalf.

Answer
It sound like a gadget on the back of the instrument cluster called the constant voltage regulator may have malfunctioned or the ground to that unit has been lost. However if the ground has been lost your dash lights would probably not work either. Do they work? let me know and then we can go on from there.
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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