my 1991 cutlass supreme wouldn't start so i jumped it and nothing so they thaught it was battery ,got a new one nothing so changed starter started right up was driving it and dash lights went all crazy and head lights dimmed then car just died what could it be
3 Answers
firebird338 answered 8 years ago
Sounds like positive battery cable is grounding out on the frame somewhere. Trace cable from battery to starter where it runs along the frame.
Get it jump started and drive it to the auto store. Leave engine running and have one of the guys test your alternator with a voltage meter. Sounds like it's not charging your battery. It should be putting out 14 volts or better. If not, replace alternator.
I agree it sounds like a short somewhere. Until you find the problem it might be a good idea to disconnect the negative cable from you battery. The sort of short that firebird338 is talking about is the sort of thing that could start a fire while its parked. I speak from experience. However with the ground disconnected you have nothing to worry about.
