Typical earth faults (Wiring diagrams)

Typical earth faults

Paint on body contact point

Symptom

Incorrect circuit operation, possibly more than one circuit affected.

Poor earth contact

Cause

Paint has not been properly removed and there is no good contact to the bare metal.

Action

Unbolt the earth wire(s) and thoroughly clean area in a 10 mm radius of the earth point. Treat the prepared area and earth terminals with a recommended wiring connector grease. Refit earth wires and tighten fixing bolt securely.

NOTE: Incorrect grease type will make the connection worse, under no circumstances use silicone oil or grease as this is a perfect insulator.

Corroded

Symptom

Incorrect/intermittent circuit operation, possibly more than one circuit affected.

Poor earth contact

Cause

The earth point is rusted and the corrosion is preventing a good contact with the bare metal.

Action

Unbolt the earth wire(s) and thoroughly clean area in a 10 mm radius of the earth point. Treat the prepared area and earth terminals with a recommended wiring connector grease. Refit earth wires and tighten fixing bolt securely.

NOTE: Incorrect grease type will make the connection worse, under no circumstances use silicone oil or grease as this is a perfect insulator.