95, sometimes dies completely when starting

[blueback]

I've had an issue off and on for the last few months with my 95 limited, 4x4, v6, auto. I turn the key and instead of starting the entire truck completely loses power. If I try to start again there is no power at all. I have to disconnect and reconnect the battery to try to start again and usually it completely dies again and I repeat the cycle several times. Usually it starts eventually.

This doesn't happen all the time and I have yet to figure out a pattern.

I opened up the starter relay and it looks brand new. I tried looking at the ignition switch but it's buried inside the dash and I can't get it out.

Does anyone know anything about this problem? Or at least how to troubleshoot it? I'm not very good with the electrical system.

 

[Arctic 4x4]

Obviusly, there's no way your battery could be drained of all power in 2 seconds. Makes me think that there's a breaker or something that's tripping, which cuts off your power. If that's the case, the next question is WHY is it tripping?

Anyone know if there are breakers or anything like that in the system?

 

[hickory]

starts?

Uh have cleaned theposts and cable ends really well? May want to getthe battery load tested as there may be a problem there.

 

[blueback]

The battery is brand new and the terminals are pristine. I figured it must be some kind of circuit breaker too, but I can't find one in the schematics.

All I can figure is that every now and then something shorts out, draws way too much current, and flips a breaker. When I disconnect the battery the breaker resets. . .but I don't know where the breaker is or how to find the short.

 

[drmorbius]

The battery is brand new and the terminals are pristine. I figured it must be some kind of circuit breaker too, but I can't find one in the schematics.

All I can figure is that every now and then something shorts out, draws way too much current, and flips a breaker. When I disconnect the battery the breaker resets. . .but I don't know where the breaker is or how to find the short.

Try disconnecting the alternator and see if cranks OK then.

 

[ManDownUnder]

Also you should check all your earths. A dodgy earth can cause all kinds of problems

 

[blueback]

Okay, I'll try both of those.
How do I check the earths?

 

[Arctic 4x4]

Okay, I'll try both of those.
How do I check the earths?

I think he's telling you to check your grounds. There are many places where negative leads are grounded to the body and frame.

 

[ManDownUnder]

Yeah same thing grounds or earths. Look for loose bolts or crappy wires in regards to your earth/grounds.