Need help with electrical problem
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Joined: Feb 2009
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Need help with electrical problem
Hey everybody I am brand new to this sight and in neecd of some help. My 2000 F250 was running fine until I tried to leave for work friday morning. When i turn my key to let the glow plugs warm up everything seems normal. After about 1 second the battery guage drops very low, the interior lights go out and the wipers come on. When i try to crank it it acts like the batteries are dead. When I turn the key off, i turn the headlights on and they are bright. I even tried to boost it off with the same results. I am a novice to say the least when it comes to mechanical issues and any input would be greatly appreciated.
Postmaster
Joined: Nov 2003
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From: Utah County, UT
The glow plugs draw a lot of amperage, like close to 80A or more if they are in good condition. I'd take the batteries in and get them tested, sounds like there just isn't enough left in them to crank it over.
Postmaster
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 3,595
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From: Utah County, UT
It take a lot to turn these engines over, if they are weak, a booster would have to be capable of over 600A or so. Both batteries are in parallel, each one is supposed to be from stock 750 cold cranking amps. Granted it doesn't take 1500A to turn it over, but I bet it is close to 1000 when cold.
Elder User
Joined: Jan 2009
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From: Oneida, NY
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Postmaster
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 3,595
Likes: 0
From: Utah County, UT
I hadn't heard of the ground wire to the firewall coming loose and causing similar problems before. If it were me, I'd check all the connections first, corrosion at the terminals can lead to the same symptoms as well.
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