Splicing Inline Harness Diodes
Many vehicle electrical systems use a diode to isolate circuits
and protect the components from voltage spikes. When installing a
new diode use the following procedure.
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• |
If the harness is taped,
remove the tape. |
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• |
To avoid wiring insulation
damage, use a sewing seam ripper (available from sewing supply
stores) in order to cut open the harness. |
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• |
If the harness has a black
plastic conduit, pull out the diode. |
2. |
If the diode is taped to the
harness, remove all of the tape. |
3. |
Check and record the current
flow direction and orientation of diode. |
4. |
Remove the inoperative diode
from the harness with a suitable soldering tool. |
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Note: If the diode is
located next to a connector terminal remove the terminal(s) from
the connector to prevent damage from the soldering tool.
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5. |
Carefully strip away a section
of insulation next to the old soldered portion of the wire(s). Do
not remove any more than is needed to attach the new diode.
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6. |
Check current flow direction
of the new diode, being sure to install the diode with correct
bias. Reference the appropriate service manual wiring schematic to
obtain the correct diode installation position. |
7. |
Attach the new diode to the
wire(s) using 60/40 rosin core solder. Before soldering
attach some heat sinks (aluminum alligator clips) across the diode
wire ends to protect the diode from excessive heat. Follow the
manufacturer's instruction for the soldering equipment.
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8. |
Reinstall terminal(s) into the
connector body if previously removed. |
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Note: To prevent
shorts to ground and water intrusion, completely cover all exposed
wire and diode attachment points with tape.
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9. |
Tape the diode to the harness
or connector using electrical tape. |
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