Electrical Problem... (1998 Ford Explorer 5.0L)

[Haydn Abell]

I am new to this group, I have read the forums from the page for a while now and you have all helped me out in various situations! I thank you....

But here is the problem that I am hoping someone can help me with. When I turn my lights on, or my blower motor on... The dash indicates that speed control is on, that my passenger side signals are stuck on (not flashing, literally stuck on), passenger side headlight is out, and the blower motor no longer works.... All of this happened all of a sudden at the same time. After driving approximately 5-10 minutes ago i do smell a bit of burning. I don't see smoke, all of my fuses are fine... I have no way to test any relays... If anyone has had this problem, or a problem similar I am hoping someone can help out. I'm guessing some kind of short in the wiring somewhere... I just don't know where to start without a diagram of any sort. Thanks in advance!

 

[J_C]

I don't have any ideas unless your GEM module itself is dying, maybe somehow got water in it? Just forget I wrote that because I don't now. I do know a failed relay might stop the fan from working but that's all, it just wouldn't work. The only other thing that comes to mind is that low battery voltage can make everything go haywire so I'd check the battery voltage.

Here are a lot of wiring diagrams linked on this post:
1996-2001 ford explorer / mountaineer workshop manual (5567 pages!)

 

[Haydn Abell]

Awesome thank you. I will definitely look into it. It kind of stopped doing it for now but I'll check all of my battery connections and go from there. Battery is a year old so I'd hope it isn't a failing cell or something. I'll keep you updated. Thanks for the advice!

 

[J_C]

Could just be a low battery from a dying alternator or other charging circuit problem, but if it stays perpetually low then that could damage the battery itself. You might also check the two bulk connector blocks under the hood, since so many things run through them that might account for multiple seemingly unrelated issues.