Repair and Diagnosis: Service Precautions
Before Troubleshooting- Check applicable fuses in the appropriate fuse/relay box.
- Check the battery for damage, state of charge, and clean and tight connections.
- Check the alternator belt tension.
CAUTION:
- Do not quick-charge a battery unless the battery ground cable has been disconnected, otherwise you will damage the alternator diodes.
- Do not attempt to crank the engine with the battery ground cable loosely connected or you will severely damage the wiring.
Handling Connectors
- Make sure the connectors are clean and have no loose wire terminals.
- Make sure multiple cavity connectors are packed with grease (except watertight connectors).
- All connectors have push-down release type locks.
- Some connectors have a clip on their side used to attach them to a mount bracket on the body or on another component. This clip has a pull type lock.
- Some mounted connectors cannot be disconnected unless you first release the lock and remove the connector from its mount bracket.
- Never try to disconnect connectors by pulling on their wires; pull on the connector halves instead.
- Always reinstall plastic covers.
- Before connecting connectors, make sure the terminals are in place and not bent.
- Check for loose retainer and rubber seals.
- The backs of some connectors are packed with grease. Add grease if necessary. If the grease is contaminated, replace it.
- Insert the connector all the way and make sure it is securely locked.
- Position wires so that the open end of the cover faces down.
Handling Wires and Harnesses
- Secure wires and wire harnesses to the frame with their respective wire ties at the designated locations.
- Remove clips carefully; don't damage their locks.
Slip pliers under the clip base and through the hole at an angle, then squeeze the expansion tabs to release the clip.
- After installing harness clips, make sure the harness doesn't interfere with any moving parts.
- Keep wire harnesses away from exhaust pipes and other hot parts, from sharp edges of brackets and holes, and from exposed screws and bolts.
- Seat grommets in their grooves properly.
Testing and Repairs
- Do not use wires or harnesses with broken insulation. Replace them or repair them by wrapping the break with electrical tape.
- After installing parts, make sure that no wires are pinched under them.
- When using electrical test equipment, follow the manufacturer's instructions.
- If possible, insert the probe of the tester from the wire side (except waterproof connector).
- Use a probe with a tapered tip.
- Refer to the instructions in the Honda Terminal Kit for identification and replacement of connector terminals.