troubleshooting start prob., now no power at fuse panel!

[FFATS357]

Ok im beyond my knowledge now, im new to posting so I apologize in advance if im in the wrong area or writing to much, but I've been saved on other repairs by reading other peoples posts and know if anyone can help its you guys. First you should know its a '96 eddie bauer 4.0L 4wd. I was troubleshooting a starting problem and had power to everything. The enginge would crank (slowly) but not start, so I removed the starter and had it tested. It was good so I reinstalled it. while I had the battery disconnected I went ahead and replaced the solenoid(relay) thinking that could be it. I attached the battery and went to start it but had no power at the ignition or anything else inside the truck(didnt hear any relays clicking or fuel pump either). I began checking all the conections I removed, they were all tight. Using a multimeter I checked the battery for power which it had and the solenoid terminals which were also good. I was getting power down at my starter cables and good grounds everywhere. So I reinstalled the old solenoid because I had power with it before, still no luck. I could jump the solenoid with a jumper and get the engine to crank but still no power at the distribution box or fuse panel to the accessories. I checked all the fuses in both with a continuity tester but all checked back fine(the fuses,still no power to them though). Now im stuck with no idea where to turn next. I'd like to check my fuel system and spark plugs but cant untill power is restored. I've changed starters and performed other repairs on other vehicals before but never experienced this. This is my first explorer and im trying to keep faith in them but im feeling the pressure on this fix. Please help. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thank you.

 

[dogfriend]

There should be a wire that goes from the starter relay (the round device on the fender) to the power distribution box. On my 97 schematic, it is shown as a black wire. Maybe you didn't get this wire back on the relay? I would trace this wire back from the power distribution box.

 

[FFATS357]

I believe i checked the wire, it was black and of large gauge but when tested it rang back the same as ground. there is another terminal connector next to where that one terminates on the back of the power distribution box but no lead attached and i cant find any that is not attached and just hanging around. well i guess ill have to keep looking, thanks for the schematic it should be about the same as my 96 so it should help me trace it back. btw i also replaced the fusible link that was comming off the relay and into the harness today but had no luck with that solving the problem. the old one didnt test bad but i figured it was still worth a shot.

 

[budwich]

I believe i checked the wire, it was black and of large gauge but when tested it rang back the same as ground.....

don't understand this.... what do you mean, and where did you check it???? recheck it and make sure what you are saying. Check it at the starter relay, making sure its on the EXACT pin number that has been identified in the above circuit diagram.

 

[FFATS357]

Hey sorry i was without internet for awhile (poor). after looking at the schematic dogfriend supplied i found there was a break in the wire(corroded through under the insulation) that fed the distribution box. i just tested it wrong so i overlooked that as a problem. thanks for your help it has power now i just havent got it to start yet. still troubleshooting that problem, but like i said im poor so parts and time are not available.

 

[dogfriend]

Since the wire from the starter relay to power distribution box was corroded, I would double check the other cables in the starter circuit to make sure they aren't corroded under the insulation.

 

[explorer kymme]

There should be a wire that goes from the starter relay (the round device on the fender) to the power distribution box. On my 97 schematic, it is shown as a black wire. Maybe you didn't get this wire back on the relay? I would trace this wire back from the power distribution box.

how do you replace the black wire????i have the exact problem everything is hooked up neeeeeeeeeeeed helppppppppppppp

 

[heamicdan]

i am having same prob with kids 96 xlt explorer