1988 Pontiac Firebird Electrical Failure

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DRAGGINWAGGIN
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  • 1 POST
My 88 Firebird (with 250,000 mi) 305 TBI, Engine was rebuilt @ about 200,000 was running OK. started to run rough like a wet distributor. so new cap,rotor,wires etc.. went in- got alittle better.. then , it was a dark and stormy night driving along and BAM!! everything electrical went dead! no lights, no engine, no wipers, nothing. The only thing that did work, was the horn which hasn't worked in three years. It went off & I had to physically disconnect the wires to turn it off. I've tried a new battery but nothing changes. the dome light comes on, but nothing else. I'm thinking possibly ignition switch or neutral saftey switch. Ignition sw. is REALLY worn out after this many miles & years. Anybody know how to test this? or any other suggestions? Really love to drive this car, but right now it's a lawn ornament.
Jan 10, 2006 at 4:40 AM
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2CARPRO JACK
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 11,533 POSTS
check all grounds and the fusible links at the starter
Jan 10, 2006 at 5:41 AM
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2CARPRO JACK
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 11,533 POSTS
If the entire car is dead, get a test light and check for power through the fusible links st the starter. If they are all ok, then it could very well be the ignition switch.It is mounted on top of the steering column, lower the column and use a test light to verify power into the switch and that it is powering through the switch when the key is turned.Get back to me with what you find
Aug 20, 2007 at 12:37 AM

Suggested Repair

Check all grounds and use a test light to verify power through the fusible links at the starter. If those are good, lower the steering column and test the ignition switch mounted on top of the column for power into the switch and power through it when the key is turned.

Conversation Summary

A 1988 Firebird with a 305 TBI lost all electrical power while driving after earlier rough running and ignition parts replacement. A new battery did not restore power; only the dome light worked, and the horn sounded until its wires were disconnected. The owner suspected a worn ignition switch or neutral safety switch. The expert advised checking grounds and fusible links at the starter, then testing power into and through the column-mounted ignition switch with a test light.

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