Technicians

Reference
Booklet

Basic Electrical Theory

Module 601

1
 © Copyright 2001
Subaru of America, Inc.
All rights reserved. This book may not be reproduced
in whole or in part without the express permission of
Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru of America, Inc. reserves the right at any time

to make changes or modifications to systems,
procedures, descriptions, and illustrations contained
in this book without necessarily updating this
document. Information contained herein is considered
current as of May 2001.

© Subaru of America, Inc. 2001 TT05045/01

Basic Electrical Theory & Diagnosis Module

Table of Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 6
Electrical System Theory ........................................................................................................... 6
Electrical Terms ................................................................................................................... 8
Watts .................................................................................................................................... 8
Circuits: Electron Flow ......................................................................................................... 9
Electrical Terminology ............................................................................................................. 10
Circuit Protectors................................................................................................................ 10
Battery Testing Procedures ..................................................................................................... 15
Switches, Relays and Motors .................................................................................................. 16
System Components .......................................................................................................... 16
Starting and Charging Systems Tests ..................................................................................... 18
Troubleshooting ...................................................................................................................... 20
The Six Step Troubleshooting Method ............................................................................... 20
Electrical Terms Glossary ....................................................................................................... 22

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Slide Sequence
Slide No. Description Page No.
1 Title Slide (Basic Electrical Theory & Diagnosis)
2 Created By
3 Teaching Aids
4 Title Slide (Electrical System Theory) 6
5 Atomic Structure Artwork 6
6 Electron Flow Artwork 6
7 Electron Flow in a Conductor Artwork 7
8 Semiconductors and Insulators Artwork 7
9 Circuit Artwork 8
10 Electrical Terms Artwork 8
11 Watts Definition Artwork 8
12 Electrical Analogy Artwork 8
13 Ohm's Law Artwork 8
14 Ohm's Law Relationships
15 Electrical Theory Artwork 9
16 Circuit Artwork 9
17 Parallel Circuit Artwork 9
18 Series-Parallel Circuit Artwork 10
19 Shorts and Grounds Artwork 10
20 Title Slide (Electrical Terminology)
21 Circuit Protectors Artwork 10
22 Fusible Links 10
23 Fuse Interpretation Artwork 11
24 Battery
25 Battery Characteristic Artwork
26 Battery Construction Artwork 11
27 Electrolyte Artwork 12
28 Battery Voltage Artwork
29 NSM 12
30 Analog Volt Meter 12
31 Ammeter Usage 13
32 Ohmmeter Usage 13
33 Logic Probe 14
34 Title Slide (Battery Testing Procedures) 15
35 Weak Battery Diagnosis Artwork 15
36 Vat-40 15
37 Measuring Specific Gravity Artwork 15
38 Title Slide (Battery Performance Test)
39 Battery Performance Test
40 Title Slide (Lab Area)
41 Title Slide (Wiring System Components)
42 Connectors Artwork
43 Gold Plated Terminals
44 Wire Color Code Chart Artwork
45 Wire Diameter / Amps Artwork
46 Wire Code Definition Artwork
47 Precautions Artwork
48 Title Slide (Electrical Wiring Diagrams and Troubleshooting)
49 Wiring Diagrams
50 Title Slide (Switches, Relays and Motors)
51 Switch Definition Artwork

4
Slide Sequence
Slide No. Description Page No.
52 Switch Types Artwork
53 Switch Schematic Artwork 16
54 Lighting Switch and Circuit
55 Troubleshooting A Switch Circuit Artwork
56 Relay Definition and Types Artwork
57 Horn Circuit Relay Operation Artwork
58 Troubleshooting a Relay Artwork
59 Relay
60 Motor Definition Artwork
61 Lines of Force = Magnetic Field Artwork
62 Motor Loop rotation Artwork 16
63 Electro Magnet Motor Artwork 17
64 Permanent Magnet Motor Artwork 17
65 Title Slide (Starting and Charging System Tests)
66 Starting System Test 18
67 Alternator Performance Test-#1 18
68 Alternator Performance Test - Output 19
69 Alternator Performance Test - /Charging System Requirements
70 Lab Area
71 Six Step Method
72 Step 1 - Verify The Problem Artwork
73 Step 2 - Determine Related Problem Artwork
74 Step 3 - Isolate The Problem Artwork
75 Step 3 - Split-Half Techniques Artwork
76 Step 4 - Identify The Cause Artwork
77 Step 5 - Repair /Replace Circuit or Component Artwork
78 Step 6 - Verify Operation Artwork
79 Title Slide (Troubleshooting Techniques)
80 Preliminary Actions Artwork
81 Identifying Loose Grounds Artwork
82 Identifying Defective Bulbs Artwork
83 Connector Problems Artwork
84 Intermittent Faults
85 Lab Area
86 Copyright
87 The End

5
Basic Electrical Theory & Diagnosis Module
Introduction Electrical System Theory
This Technicians Reference Booklet
contains information pertaining to basic
automotive electricity, and the Subaru
electrical system. It reviews electron theory,
current flow, circuitry, and the types and
causes of electrical shorts. Electrical terms
are defined, Ohm's Law is explained, and
the following major components of Subaru 5
electrical systems are discussed: the
Electron theory
battery, circuit protectors, switches, relays,
and motors. Finally, the six-step method of Atoms are composed of electrons and
troubleshooting is introduced. This method protons. Electrons have a negative charge
presents a logical step by step process of and whirl around a nucleus composed of
identifying and correcting typical electrical protons, which have a positive charge.
system problems.

The text and illustrations are derived from

the classroom lecture and slide presentation
material and are intended to reinforce
previous classroom instruction and lab
participation.

Technicians Worksheets provided by your

instructor will be completed during the
"hands-on" lab work segments of the Basic 6
Electrical Theory & Diagnosis Module.
Electron flow
Always refer to the appropriate model year
Subaru Service Manual and the applicable The electrons can move from the valence
Service Bulletins for all specifications and ring of one atom to the valence ring of
detailed service procedures. another atom. This chain reaction effect type
of movement of electrons constitutes electric
current.

Atoms with fewer than four electrons are

considered to be conductors because they
give up electrons to other atoms easily.

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Basic Electrical Theory & Diagnosis Module

7
Conductors

All circuits must have conductors and

insulators to operate properly. Electricity will
always return to its source if a path (circuit) is
available. Circuits provide a path for electrons
to travel from a source to the load and back to
the source.
8
Conductors such as copper, iron, and
aluminum allow electrons to flow freely, or be Insulators/Semiconductors
released. There are several methods to
produce electromotive force which causes Atoms with more than four electrons are
electrons to be released: insulators because they do not freely give up
• Magnetic (Alternator) electrons. Examples are:
• Pressure (Knock sensor) • Glass
• Heat (Thermo-couple) • Rubber
• Chemical (Storage battery) • Vinyl

The best insulators have eight (8) electrons.

Atoms with exactly four electrons in the outer

valence ring are called semiconductors.
Examples are:
• Carbon
• Silicon
• Germanium

A semiconductor may be a conductor or an

insulator, depending on the application and
circuit conditions.

NOTE: SEMICONDUCTORS WILL BE

ADDRESSED FURTHER IN THE ADVANCED
ELECTRICAL THEORY & DIAGNOSIS
MODULE.

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Basic Electrical Theory & Diagnosis Module
As the water strikes the water wheel, the weight
Electrical Terms of the water causes the wheel to turn. A
• Amps—Current flow of electrons or continuous volume of water keeps the wheel
intensity: Symbol = I turning. The weight of the wheel impedes
• Volts—Electromotive force or pressure: (provides resistance to) the flow of the water. This
Symbol = V resistance is measured as friction or drag. In an
• Ohms—Resistance to electron movement: electrical system, the wire provides resistance
Symbol = R 10 through the covalent bonding of the electrons.
This resistance is measured in ohms (R).
Watts
• Measurement of electrical power: Work is equal to the pressure of the water
Symbol = W times the flow of water which is equal to
• Watts = Volts x amps: W = V x I rotation of the wheel. An increase in the
• Example: 1) 12 V x 5.01 = 60 W pressure or volume at the same resistance will
2) 120 V x 0.51 = 60 W equal an increase in the flow of water which in
11
turn increases the speed or amount of wheel
It is important that you understand the rotation. In an electrical system, the voltage
definitions of the electrical terms listed above. (pressure - V) X amps (flow of electrons - I) will
equal the watts (the wheel rotation) or work
performed.

12
An electrical analogy

Think of an electrical system as a water system

in which the water tank represents the power
source (potential energy). The tank is similar to
a battery. The water flowing from the water tank 13
is measured in gph (gallons/hour) and
represents electron flow. In a battery, chemical
interaction produces this electron flow which is
measured in amperes (amps).

Pressure is created by the physical weight of

the water which causes the water to move.
Water pressure is measured on pounds/in2
(psi). Similarly, the pressure that moves the
electrons, which is called electromotive force,
is measured on volts (V).

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Basic Electrical Theory & Diagnosis Module
Using Ohm's Law, complete the following Circuits: Electron Flow
problems:

1. How many amps of current can flow

through a 12-ohm resistor if 12,000 volts
are available?

2. How many volts are required to move 10

amps of current through a 0.5-ohm wire?
16
Basic electrical circuit

The basic circuit shown above has a battery as

3. What resistance value will allow the flow of the power source. The wires carry the current
15 amps of current if 12 volts are available? from the battery (positive wire to the load (bulb)
and back to the source (ground wire). A switch
controls the flow of current, and a fuse protects
the circuit from an overload or an unintentional
ground.

The circuit shown above is a series circuit

because it provides only one path for current
flow. A break or short anywhere in the circuit
will stop the current flow.
15
Theory of electron flow

The conventional theory of electron flow states

that the direction of current flow is from the
positive (+) terminal of the voltage source,
through the external circuit, and then back to
the negative (-) terminal of the voltage source.
The electron theory states that the direction of
current flow is from the negative (-) terminal of
the voltage source, through the external circuit,
and then back to the positive (+) terminal of the 17
voltage source.
Parallel circuit

Current flows through parallel branches of the

circuit only affects that branch and does not
stop the flow of current to other components on
the other branches of the circuit.

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Basic Electrical Theory & Diagnosis Module
Electrical Terminology
Circuit Protectors

18
21
Series-parallel circuit Circuit Protectors
This type of circuit is a combination of the Circuit protectors provide a vital safeguard to
series and parallel forms of circuitry and has an electrical system.
the advantages and disadvantages of both
types. If the fuse blows in the main feed line, A blown circuit protector is an indication of a
current cannot flow to Load A, Load B, or Load problem in the circuit. Replacing the circuit
C. On the other hand, a break in the Load A protector is not usually the solution to the
wire will not affect the operation of the Load B problem.
or Load C circuit. This is the most common
type of circuit used in automotive electrical
systems.

22
19 Fusible link

Shorts grounds and opens A fusible link is a short piece of insulated wire
that is usually four gauges smaller in wire size
The figure above shows two types of shorts that than the circuit it protects. Subaru vehicles use
occur in automotive electrical systems. A short up to five fusible links depending on model
circuit can be a connection of two circuits and year.
caused by a break in the insulation of the
circuits or an unintentional ground caused when
a circuit comes in contact with a ground as
shown above. An open is an interruption of the
current flow in a circuit caused by the activation
of a switching device or a break in a conductor.
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Basic Electrical Theory & Diagnosis Module
There are two types of fuses used in Subaru
vehicles: 2. A short circuit or unintentional ground
causes an extremely high current to pass
1. Cartridge type through the fuse strip. The strip melts so
These fuses have a zinc strip attached to quickly that it vaporizes. The strip particles
two metal end caps. The end caps are splatter the glass tube or plastic body and
separated by a clear glass tube. the glass tube or plastic body will appear
tinted (silvery/black).
2. Plug type
This fuse has a zinc strip attached to two 3. A poor fuse connection is caused by a
metal terminals are imbedded a plastic loose contact between the fuse cap and
holder. holder (cartridge type only). This creates a
resistance, which can produce enough heat
Some Subaru vehicles use plug type fuses as to melt the solder attaching the fuse strip to
main fuses instead of fusible links. Examples are the end caps. In this case beads of solder
certain circuits in the Legacy and Justy vehicles. or flux stains may be seen on the inside or
on the outside of the glass tube, however
Circuit breakers are a thermal mechanical device
the fuse strip will appear to be intact.
that opens a circuit when its amperage rating is
exceeded. The advantage of a circuit breaker is
that it is reusable and automatically resets.

23 26
Fuse interpretation Battery

When a fuse blows because of a circuit fault, it The automotive battery is an electrochemical
will exhibit one of three visual characteristics device that stores and converts chemical
as described below. By examining the fuse energy into electrical energy. It is not a storage
closely, it can be determined what type of container for electricity. The battery provides
circuit fault caused the problem. the initial electrical energy for the ignition
system and starting system. It also supplies
1. Overloaded circuit, occurs when 20 amps additional current when the current demand of
pass through a 15 amp fuse. The center of the system exceeds the output of the alternator.
the fuse strip will get hot, droop then melt
leaving the ends drooping down at the Automotive batteries normally have six cells.
break point. Each cell produces 2.1 volts; thus a six-cell
battery produces 12.6 volts. The voltage output
of the battery is determined by the material
used in the construction of the plates.

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Basic Electrical Theory & Diagnosis Module
Automotive battery plates are made of two Specific gravity is the ratio of the weight (or
dissimilar materials, for example, lead peroxide mass) of the water to the weight (or mass) of
(positive plate) and sponge lead (negative the sulfuric acid. Thus, a specific gravity of
plate). A thin separator of rubber or plastic is 1.000 is equal to water. Specific gravity will
between each negative and positive plate. change with changes in temperature of the
electrolyte, For each 10° above 80° F., add
The cells are then connected in series, i.e., the .004 to the electrolyte reading. For each 10°
positive plates of one cell are connected to the below 80° F., subtract .004 from the electrolyte
negative plates of the next cell, etc. Note that reading. Or you may use an electrolyte
additional plates in a cell do not increase the temperature correction chart or a temperature
voltage capability of the cell or battery, but they equipped hydrometer.
do increase the length of time that the battery
can produce electricity (amperage rating). NOTE: THE SPECIFIC GRAVITY READINGS
MUST NOT VARY MORE THAN 50 POINTS
BETWEEN CELLS. A VARIATION OF MORE
THAN 50 POINTS INDICATES CELL
DETERIORATION, AND A NEED FOR
BATTERY REPLACEMENT.

27
Electrolyte specific gravity
29
30
Electrolyte is the final ingredient required for an
active battery. Without electrolyte, a battery is Voltmeter usage
inactive and does not produce electricity.
There are two basic types of voltmeters:
Electrolyte is a solution of water and purified
• Digital type which is best for low or
sulfuric acid which allows the chemical
fractional voltages.
reaction to occur between the plates.
• Analog type which is best for measuring
Generally, the percentage of sulfuric acid in a
rapid or large voltage changes.
battery is 36 percent by weight and 25 percent
by volume. A high input resistance of usually 10 megohms
(W) per volt input resistance prevents
To determine the amount of charge of a battery,
overloading of low current circuits by the
the specific gravity of the electrolyte is
voltmeter. An overloaded circuit will produce
measured. A full charged battery theoretically
inaccurate voltmeter readings.
should have an electrolyte specific gravity of
1.299. However, a normally charged battery
will most likely indicate specific gravity
readings ranging from 1.260 to 1.280 at 80° F.

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Basic Electrical Theory & Diagnosis Module
Always connect a voltmeter in parallel, i.e., Ammeter Cautions
positive (+) lead to the positive (+) side of the • Never connect in parallel with power
circuit/component and the negative (-) lead to source (Will cause immediate meter
the negative (-) side of the circuit/component. damage)
• Use a meter with a high enough
Voltmeter Cautions capacity for the potential current in the
• Never connect in series circuit being measured
• Use the proper scale for the circuit • Use a higher scale first and work down
voltage • Handle the meter carefully
• Always zero the meter • Always zero the meter
• Voltmeters are precision instruments,
handle with care.

32
Ohmmeter usage
31
Ammeter usage There are three types of ohmmeters:
• Digital types are best for reading low
There are two types of ammeters: and fractional resistance values. Some
• Digital type which is best for low or digital meters are also self-ranging.
fractional current readings. • Analog types are difficult to read
• Analog type which is best for varying fractional resistance values. The analog
current readings. type is not the preferred meter for
measuring resistance.
Always use an ammeter with a low input • The field effect transistor type (F.E.T.).
resistance. There is not a standard input A very low voltage is provided at the
resistance specification available, however tips which prevents damage to computer
higher quality meters offer this feature. Proper circuits. This feature can be found on
connection will protect your ammeter from either analog or digital type meters, and
damage. Always connect in series with a is used in conjunction with the diode
circuit. Connect the leads to either end of an testing scale for checking diodes.
opened/separated part of the circuit; the
positive (+) lead connector toward the positive
(+) side of the circuit/component and the
negative (-) lead connector toward the negative
(-) side of the circuit/component.

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Basic Electrical Theory & Diagnosis Module
Ohmmeter Cautions • The "PULSE" LED will flash "ON" and
• Never connect to a powered circuit/ "OFF" to indicate any change in
component voltage, i.e., the crank angle sensor,
• Use proper scale cam angle sensor, speed sensor, ignitor,
• Handle meter carefully or any circuit where varying voltage is
• Always zero the meter present.

The pulse memory is used to detect an

intermittent open or short in the circuit. Connect
the probe to the circuit. Then wiggle the
connections, wires, etc., the "MEM" LED
illuminates when an intermittent or poor
connection is disturbed.

DLP Cautions
• Do not use on high voltage sources, i.e.,
ignition secondary.
33 • Only use on automotive 12 volt power
sources.
Digital logic probe (DLP)

The digital logic probe can be used to quickly

test the power supply or ground circuit. It is
used in lieu of the test light which can damage
computerized circuitry. It is best to have a DLP
with a pulse/memory feature, which is used to
check for pulsing signals or intermittent opens.
Also, it is best to have an input overload
protection to a minimum of 250 volts at the
probe.

Connect the positive (+) lead to the B+ power

source and the negative (-) lead to any viable
ground. (A cigarette lighter adaptor can be
used for working inside of the vehicle.) Touch
the center probe to any power source or
ground in the electrical system.

The DLP is used to determine high or low

voltage in a circuit.
• Above 10 volts the "HIGH" LED
illuminates.
• Below 4 volts the "LOW" LED
illuminates.
• Between 4.1 and 9.9 volts, neither LED
illuminates, but the "PULSE" LED
flashes: "ON" and "OFF" once. This
indicates the voltage availability in this
range.

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Basic Electrical Theory & Diagnosis Module
Battery Testing Procedures
The first step is to check the operation of the
electrical components. Then complete the
following checks:
1. Check the battery for damage
2. Check the positive and negative leads for
corrosion and proper installation.
3. Check that the electrolyte is at the full level
indicator(s). Check the color of the
electrolyte.
— Clear means there is no damage.
36
— Red means there is positive plate Battery performance test
deterioration.
— Gray means there is negative plate A battery performance test is required when
deterioration. the engine cranks slowly or does not start. If
35 the battery specific gravity is greater than
4. Check the specific gravity, it must be a
minimum of 1.230 to test the battery. There 1.230, conduct a battery performance test. If the
should be no more than a maximum of a 50 specific gravity is less than 1.230, charge the
point differential between the cells. battery in accordance with the manufacturer's
5. On sealed maintenance free batteries, recommended procedures. Then proceed with
check the open circuit voltage and compare a battery performance test.
its value with the manufacturer's
specifications.
6. If the specific gravity is below 1.230 or the
open circuit voltage is below the
recommended value, charge the battery
and recheck the specific gravity/open circuit
voltage.

37
NOTE: WHEN CONDUCTING A BATTERY
PERFORMANCE TEST ALWAYS FOLLOW THE
EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURER'S
RECOMMENDED PROCEDURES. APPLY A
LOAD EQUAL TO 1/2 THE COLD CRANKING
AMP RATING OF THE BATTERY FOR 15
SECONDS. OBSERVE THE BATTERY
VOLTAGE WHILE THE LOAD IS BEING
35 APPLIED AND COMPARE IT WITH THE
MANUFACTURERS' SPECIFICATIONS.

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Basic Electrical Theory & Diagnosis Module
Switches, Relays and Motors
System Components
A switch is a device used to open, close, or
redirect the flow of current in an electrical
circuit. Switches are available in various
shapes, sizes, and capabilities to meet circuit
control requirements. A single-position switch,
such as a stop light switch, controls the stop
light by closing/opening the circuit to allow/stop
the flow of current to the stop light.

A multiple-position switch, such as a lighting

switch, controls the flow of current to several 59
components. Finally, a switch may work in Relays
conjunction with other switches, such as the
four courtesy light switches in a four-door A relay is an electromagnetic switching device
vehicle. that uses low current to open or close a high-
current switching device. There are two basic
types of relays used on Subaru vehicles:
normally open (NO) and normally closed (NC).
A third type of relay is used in special
automotive applications. This relay transfers
current flow from one circuit to another.

53

62
Motors

A motor is an electromagnetic device that

converts electrical energy into mechanical
energy. Motor operation is accomplished by
placing a loop-shaped conductor in a magnetic
field and then passing current through the
conductor. The flow of the current through the
conductor loop causes an unbalanced field
condition, which causes the loop to rotate to a
position where the field is once again in
balance. Then the loop will stop rotating.

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Basic Electrical Theory & Diagnosis Module

64
63 Permanent magnet motor operation

Motor operation Permanent magnet motors do not use field coil

construction. Because the field magnetism is
To obtain continuous rotation, a motor must constantly available from highly efficient
contain numerous conductor loops, and the permanent magnets, the current is sent directly
direction of the current must be reversed at the to the brushes. The operating principle is
halfway point of rotation for each of the loops. similar to a field coil type motor. The advantage
This is accomplished through a split ring of this motor design is a significant reduction in
called a commutator. The rotating loops and the size and weight of the motor with no loss of
commutator make up the armature of the motor. operating capacity.
Rotation of the motor creates a generating
action called back voltage or counter
electromotive force.

This force limits the current draw of the motor

(armature) so that the motor only draws the
amount of current to perform the job required. If
the force required to perform the job exceeds
the current capacity of the armature, the
armature will stop rotating, the current will
overheat the wires in the armature, and the
motor will be damaged.

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Basic Electrical Theory & Diagnosis Module
Starting and Charging Systems • On gasoline engines with an
Tests integral mounted ignition coil,
disconnect the ignition switch lead
from the ignition system assembly.
Do not allow the lead to touch a
ground.
5. Conduct the performance test
according to the directions contained in
the operator's instructions.

NOTE: REFER TO SEC. 6-1 OF

APPROPRIATE MY SUBARU SERVICE
MANUAL FOR SPECIFICATIONS.
66 6. Restore the engine and component
Starting system test connections to the normal starting
condition.
A performance test is required if any of the
following conditions are present:
1. Difficult starting is experienced.
2. Cranking speed is slow.
3. Consecutive starting of the engine
results in a slower cranking speed.
4. The starter does not engage.
5. All other components of the starting
system have been eliminated as the
possible fault.

Cautions and preliminary steps to conducting a

performance test: 67
1. A performance test should only be Alternator performance tests
made with a serviceable battery.
2. Turn off all lights and accessories and An alternator performance test is required if
close all doors. any of the following conditions are present:
3. Adjust test equipment according to the 1. The battery is dead (discharged), but
operator's instructions. holds a charge when charged. Also, the
4. Prevent the engine from starting during battery performance test indicates a
the cranking test. good battery.
• Ground the negative coil primary 2. The vehicle voltmeter indicates a
wire or the tach terminal on gasoline discharging condition or the charge
engines with an externally mounted warning light is illuminated during
ignition coil, or disconnect the normal vehicle operation.
distributor primary connector. On 3. The system is overcharging.
distributorless ignition vehicles, 4. All other components of the charging
disconnect the crank angle sensor. system have been eliminated as the
fault.

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Basic Electrical Theory & Diagnosis Module
Conduct the alternator performance test in
accordance with the operator's instructions for
the test equipment you are using. Conduct an
alternator charging test, a voltage regulator
test, and a diode stator test. Compare the
results of the tests to the specifications listed in
the appropriate MY Subaru Service Manual
and repair and or replace components as
required. Then retest the system.

68
Charging system requirements test

Conduct a charging system requirements test

in accordance with the operator's instructions
for the test equipment you are using. Be sure to
connect the D-Check connectors so that the
fuel pump and other fuel system components
operate.

Note the total accessory load reading and

compare the reading to the total alternator
output reading obtained in the alternator
performance test. The total alternator output
reading should exceed the total accessory
load reading by at least 5 amps.

If the readings are below specifications, conduct

a voltage drop test between the alternator and
the battery, (between the alternator B+ terminal
and the battery positive terminal).

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Basic Electrical Theory & Diagnosis Module
Troubleshooting 4. Identify the cause of the problem. Is the
circuit grounded, shorted, feeding
Slides 71 through 78 through another circuit, or is a
The Six Step Troubleshooting Method component defective?
1. Verify the problem.
2. Determine related symptoms. 5. Repair and/or replace defective wiring
3. Isolate the problem. and components as required.
4. Identify the cause. 6. Verify operation. Check the circuit to
5. Repair and/or replace. verify that the problem has been solved.
6. Verify operation. Ensure that all circuit components
This method of troubleshooting will save time and operate properly under standard
effort in the diagnosis and analysis of electrical operating conditions according to
problems. It provides a logical approach to solving technical specifications. Also check
the problem—not just treating the symptoms. The related circuits for proper operation.
steps are defined as follows:

1. Verify the problem (operational check).

Identify the symptoms of the problem.
Are components inoperable or
malfunctioning? When, how often, and
where does the problem occur?

2. Determine related symptoms

(operational check). Identify other
symptoms that exist. Are other circuits
and components affected? Do the
related symptoms always occur with the
primary symptom?

3. Isolate the problem. Use the split half

technique*, the wiring diagram, and the
wiring harness diagram to locate a short
in a grounded circuit.

*The split-half technique is used as

follows:
• Obtain the proper wiring diagrams.
• Divide the circuit in half at an
accessible connector.
• Check half of the circuit.
• Repeat the process if the first half of
the circuit is good, check the second
half of the circuit, etc.,
• The problem always exists between
a positive and a negative result.

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Basic Electrical Theory & Diagnosis Module

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Basic Electrical Theory & Diagnosis Module
Electrical Terms Glossary Ground/Chassis ground
Negative side of a complete circuit. In
Resistance automotive applications the negative side of
Property of an electrical circuit that tends to the battery or any wire connected to the engine,
prevent or reduce the flow of current. frame, or body sheet metal.
Dynamic resistance Relay
Effect of a resistor or resistance in a circuit. Electromagnetic switching device using low
current to open or close a high-current device.
Voltage Drop
The difference in voltage between one point in Solenoid
a circuit and another, or the difference in An electromagnetic device consisting of a
measured voltage from one side of a tubular soil of wire containing a core that
component to the other side. moves when the coil is energized. Movement of
the core can open/close a circuit. A solenoid
Resistor converts electrical energy to mechanical
Device that permits a predetermined current to energy.
flow at a given voltage. Examples are a SPFI
ballast resistor and a 4EAT dropping resistor. Filament
A fine high resistance wire or thread which
Rheostat glows and produces light when current is
See variable resistor. forced through it.
Variable Resistor/Rheostat Diode
A device that adjusts the amount of resistance Solid-state device that permits current to flow
required. An example is a sliding contact in one direction only; performs like a one-way
resistor. The position of the contact determines check valve.
the amount of resistance. The fuel sending
units of a vehicle equipped with an analog Transistor
dash use a variable resistor. Solid-state semiconductor that is a
combination current amplifier and switch
Potentiometer (similar to a solenoid in the starter circuit or a
A resistive element with a sliding wiper relay in function). It uses low control current to
contact that is used in applications in which a channel high current.
division of resistance is required (such as a
three-terminal adjustable resistive divider). Capacitor (Condenser)
Example: The throttle sensor on SPFI and Device used to store an electrical charge.
MPFI fuel systems.
Splice
Joining of two or more conductors at a single
point.
Terminal
Device attached to the end of a wire or cable
to make an electrical connection.

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Basic Electrical Theory & Diagnosis Module

Notes:

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