99 Grand prix Odd elec problem

Vehicle: 99 Grand Prix GT

Problem: Windshield Wipers, Windows, and Stereo only work with the key in accessory position.

Background of problem: After working on ignition switch I went to connect the Neg battery terminal back up and noticed arching (like something was on) when I got in the car there was smoke (looked to come from under the center to right side of the dash but I'm not sure). Everything works just not the above mention problems when key is in the run position. They all work fine in accessory.

What I know so far: I know that no fuses blew. I replaced the (RAP) Retained Accessory Power relay (Not the Prob). I know with key in Run position power does not reach the fuses of the Wipers, Stereo, Windows.

What I need to know: What do all 3 have in common when the key is in the RUN position only? Where is the common connection? What is common between the 3 that could have fried to produce smoke in the cab of the car but not blow a fuse and is only related to them with the key in the on position.(remember everything else works) (Already know its not the RAP)

The ignition switch/harness assembly is the likely culprit. It's a fairly common issue in these cars, and will cause all kinds of electircal gremlins/anomalies.

The ignition switch/harness assembly is the likely culprit. It's a fairly common issue in these cars, and will cause all kinds of electircal gremlins/anomalies.


Yes I know :)

That is what I fixed. My past problems were Fan running intermittently. Daytime running lights not working with fan turned on etc. All fixed by cleaning the contacts in the ignition switch. :)

This problem was caused by something during the re-installation when I reconnected my battery something smoked. Possibly caused by an exposed wire or something. So I need to find what that was.

Got your PM.

Electrical problems can be like trying to find a needle in a haystack. Even without the ignition switch on battery power is present at many components. The ignition switch is normally the common point. Here is a link which may give you some insight into ignition switch repair. The cams, springs and contacts have to be done just right or you may get repeated carboning up and arcing.

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=616354&highlight=ignition+switch

Based on your symptoms I don't see the BCM being the cause but you never know. Are you using GM wiring diagrams for your year GP? Any other anomalies?

No other anomolies. That I know of. Basicly I cleaned the contacts reinstalled smoked something under the dash somewhere and now the 3 items mentioned only work iin accessory.

I will get a volt meter today and start checking all the wires I guess.

I have been search for a good place to get a wiring diagram for this car but it seems the only thing I can find are Chiltons and alike.

Anyone have any Ideas where I can get this? I dont want to pay big buck either.

Thanks

I have been search for a good place to get a wiring diagram for this car but it seems the only thing I can find are Chiltons and alike.

Anyone have any Ideas where I can get this? I dont want to pay big buck either.

Thanks

haynes manual? autozone or advance auto should have em. 20 bux'ish

I found the AllDataDIY subscription wiring diagrams are the closest match. GM (Helm) is the best but expensive. The Haynes and Chilton's are too generalized and the point to point wiring and color coding doesn't match most of the time.

I have the '97 - '98 wiring diagrams on PDF so send me a PM with a regular email address. They should be close enough for '99 and useable.

Thanks for the diagram.

It looks like I should have power to the Orange and Brown Wire coming from the Ignition switch when the key is in the Run position. Well I only have power in the orange wire not the brown when in the run position.

So i am guessing I botched my switch overhaul or something fell out of place when I reassembled it. Unless there is another reason I would have no power to the Brown in the run position. It Doesnt explain the "smoke" either. But I guess one step at a time.

The smoke may have been caused by an internal arc in the switch/harness assembly burning the residual dielectric grease in the connector.. One of the problems of the switch/harness is the teminal connectors lose their spring tension, and no longer fit tightly together. If all you did was clean and re-assemble the OEM harness, it is still most likely your issue.