Headlamp Door Solenoid - Battery Drain
83ford10Article No. 83-16-6
NO START - BATTERY DRAIN - HEADLAMP DOOR SOLENOID
LINCOLN-MERCURY 1983 MARK VI
A "dead battery" or "no start" condition may be misdiagnosed as battery quality rather than a continuous battery drain caused by a short-circuited component or wiring. One area which has recently been identified as a potential cause of a slow drain (approximately 200 milliamps) is the headlamp door vacuum actuating solenoid. If the vehicle is driven daily, the constant low drain on the battery would not be noticed. However, if the vehicle is parked for a prolonged period, the approximate 5 ampere hour per day battery capacity loss would be evident on attempting to start.
If a slow battery drain is suspected, first check the headlamp door solenoid circuit (Fuse 8, Page 40, Electrical and Vacuum Trouble-Shooting Manual. EVTM). Remove #8 fuse (15 amp) and install a milliamp meter across the fuse terminals (not a test light or a volt meter). If the current draw is approximately 200 milliamps, the solenoid is suspect and will require further testing (refer to 1983 Shop Manual, Volume A, Page 32-12-2). Disconnect the vacuum solenoid connector and check the milliamp meter. If draw is reduced significantly, replace the solenoid assembly. If draw is not reduced, check the other systems on this circuit (illuminated entry, keyless entry, anti-theft, or power outside mirror).
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WARRANTY STATUS: "INFORMATION ONLY"