Crippling electrical problems

[Schultzgang]

I have a 1999 GT that has no power to the power windows, heater blower, windshield wipers or the radio. I've checked the battery connections, grounds & front wiring harness. I tested all the fuses, tested all the relays I can put my hands on, replaced the BCM and still nothing. I have power at the both ignition circuits in the power distribuiton box, but it doesn't seem to be making it to the devices.

The car starts & drives fine. The lights, horn, gages also work fine. I'm starting to suspect ignition wiring. Where do I go from here? Any thoughts?

[GTP Dad]

Welcome to AF!!

Try changing the ignition switch. It is located at the bottom of the steering wheel not the lock at the top. It sounds like your problem lies there. If you search the forum you will find several posts outlining the procedure and there is a picture of the wiring you need to change. Sorry I don't have it readily available or I would give you the thread.

[richtazz]

I agree with Lynn that your problem is the ignition switch/harness. Here's the link from the tips and maintenance sub-forum :

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbul...d.php?t=653340

[GTP Dad]

Thanks for bailing me out on that one Rich. Didn't have time to find the thread that told him how to do this.

[Schultzgang]

Thanks for the help. I've been at this problem for weeks now. I found posts with some, but not all the same symptoms. I'll try to check it out this weekend.

[richtazz]

Not a problem Lynn, we mods got each others backs. You and Bob have covered me in the past, this was my turn to return the favor. Good luck if you decide to tackle this yourself Shultzgang. It's definitly a DIY'able job, just be patient.

[Schultzgang]

I replaced the igintion switch this weekend & unfortunately, that wasn't the problem either. Now what? Are there any fusable links on the accessory circuit? If so where? How about a hidden relay somewhere?

I haven't removed the dashboard - is there anything back there that I should be looking for? At this point, I'm open for even crazy suggestions. Thanks.

[BNaylor]

Although you checked the fuses assuming visually did you check them with an ohmmeter? Also, did you measure for 12 volts at one side of each fuse socket for missing accessories with ignition to ON. On the power window issue did you check the circuit breaker? Common issue for no power windows and radio is the RAP - retained accessory power relay. Either bad, not energizing or missing the 12 volts it passes on via the contacts. There maybe something common to all but you may have to tackle each individual circuit to make a determination as to which way to go.

What reference are you using to troubleshoot. GM FSM wiring diagrams?

[Schultzgang]

I did check the fuses with a multimeter, but I did not check the sockets. I don't know anything about the RAP/circuit breaker. Please tell me where to find it. Also, I'm not using wiring diagrams. I have a Peterson repair manual that came with the car, but it's pretty useless. Good ideas - thanks.