1953 M38A1 has no power

[gabe greene]

Hi, Just bought a very cool 53 M38A1, Running great and shifting great also. As I was driving it just shut off and no power anywhere no horn nothing?? Can anybody help or have any idea what happened? it has 72K miles on it and in very good shape. I will try to attach some pics. Gabe from NH

 

[clinto]

The M38A1 wiring harness is very similar to the M38.



You need to get your 24V test light or multimeter and follow the electricity.

Start at the 2nd battery, where the positive cable runs to the starter and simply work your way down the line. Is there 24V at the terminal? If so, go to the next place, which is where the cable runs to the starter. Is there 24V there? If so, follow the wire that runs from the starter to the voltage regulator (#12 circuit, A terminal on voltage regulator). Is there 24V at terminal A? If so, there should be 24V coming out of of the C terminal (circuit 10) and running to the main dash switch. Is there 24V there?

At some point, following the flow of electricity, you're going to find a spot where power goes in but doesn't come out.

 

[Saberr]

What clinto said. Also just a side note, make sure all of your grounding points are clean. Also is do the gauges work ? They don't need the engine to be running to work.

 

[BillF]

I am in new Hampshire and would be willing to help out if you need it.

 

[quickfarms]

Make sure the ground straps are there and not broken.

Be careful about leaving the switch on because you can burn up the points and coil.

 

[Fifty]

Great Jeep, love the top. Please don't take it off. The notes from up top are good places to start looking.