SERVICE GUILD: DETECTING ELECT INTERMITTENTS DIAGNOSTIC
Subject: DETECTING ELECTRICAL INTERMITTENTS
Model and Year: 1983-92 ALL PASSENGER CARS AND TRUCKS
DETECTING ELECTRICAL INTERMITTENTS:
Use the following procedure to detect intermittent terminal contact or a broken wire with an intermittent connection inside the insulation.
The J 39200 Digital Multimeter has the ability to monitor current, resistance, or voltage while recording the minimum (MIN) and maximum (MAX) values measured. The meter can also be set to display the average (AVG) value measured.
When diagnosing circuits that have voltage applied, use the voltage setting to monitor a connector (or length of a circuit) which is suspected of having an intermittent connection but is currently operating normally.
1. Connect the J 39200 Digital Multimeter to both sides of a suspect connector (still connected) or from one end of a suspect circuit to the other. This will continuously monitor the terminal contacts or length of wire being checked. See "METER CONNECTIONS" for examples of the various methods for connecting the meter to the circuit.
2. Set the meter for voltage. Since the MIN MAX mode does not use auto ranging, manually select the voltage range necessary before proceeding.
3. Press the "MIN MAX" button. The meter should read "100 ms RECORD" (100 millisecond record) and emit a 1/4 second beep. The meter is now ready to record and will generate an audible tone for any change in voltage. At this point, you may wish to press the "PEAK MIN MAX" button, which will record any voltage variations that occur for at least 1 millisecond.
4. Try to simulate the condition that is potentially causing an intermittent connection, either by wiggling connections or wiring, test driving or performing other operations. If an open or resistance is created, a voltage will be present and the meter will emit a tone for as long as the open or resistance exists. Any change in voltage will cause the meter to emit a tone for no less than 1/4 second. (Listening for a tone while manipulating wiring is very helpful for narrowing in on an intermittent connection.)
Use the MIN and MAX values when the meter is out of sight or sound range, in noisy areas or for test driving when it may not be possible to monitor the meter.
To check the MIN and MAX recorded voltages press "MIN MAX" once for MAX and twice for MIN. A variation between MIN and MAX recorded voltages (unless nearly 0 volts) suggests an intermittent open or resistance exists and should be repaired as necessary, Refer to Section "8A-5" of any current GM Service Manual for approved repair procedures.
IMPORTANT: The "100 ms RECORD" (100 millisecond record) mode is NOT the amount of time allowed to perform a specific procedure. It is the amount of time used to record each snapshot of information used for calculating "AVG" when in the "MIN MAX" mode.
METER CONNECTIONS:
The previous diagnostic procedure was written to detect intermittents using the meter set to voltage. Whether using the current, voltage or resistance setting to detect intermittents, it is necessary to connect the meter to the circuit.
Following are examples of the various methods of connecting the meter to the circuit to be checked.
- Backprobe both ends of the connector and either hold the leads in place while manipulating the connector or tape the leads to the harness for continuous monitoring while performing other operations or test driving. (Do not backprobe "weather pack" type connectors.)
- Disconnect the harness at both ends of the suspect circuit where it connects either to a component or to other harnesses.
- Use Connector Test Adapter Kit J 35616 to connect the meter to the circuit.
- If the system being diagnosed has a specified pinout or breakout box, it may be used to simplify connecting the meter to the circuit or for checking multiple circuits quickly, some examples:
Tool # Description Application ------- ----------- --------------- J 35592 Pinout Box ABS and Traction Control Systems J 38716 Pinout Box ABS J 39700 Breakout Box Universal - With J 39700-10 92 Y-car ABS/ASR - With J 39700-40 W-car ECM's
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
- NOTICE: Turn off power to the test circuit before attempting in-circuit resistance measurements to prevent false readings or damage to the meter. Do not use the meter to measure resistance through a solid state module. Continuity tests that work well for detecting intermittent shorts to ground can be performed by setting the meter to ohms then pressing the "PEAK MIN MAX" button. An audible tone will be heard whenever the meter detects continuity for at least 1 millisecond.
- The J 39200 Instruction Manual is a good source of information and should be read thoroughly upon receipt of the meter as well as kept on hand for reference during new procedures.
General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.
