Strange electrical fault no ignition light but lights etc. Work

[metalmickey]

Having been in hospital for a month I have just tried to cheer myself up with a trip in my 1969 registered Mk2 340. The battery I thought was flat because the ignition light didn’t come on. After recharging the battery I was surprised to find that nothing changed!

I put on the headlights and they work fine. Also the gauge shows a discharge and is working, as are the interior lights. But the ignition light, starter press, windscreen wipers, all do not work.

Because it seems some items are working it may be a fuse? What can you suggest as an approach to seeing what’s wrong? I have tested the two fuses on the near side wing but don’t know where other fuses are located or even if fuses are the source of the problem.

Any help would be appreciated thanks.

Mike

[PPV]

Looking at the wiring diagram if your fuses are a problem many other items should not work. For instance I think the ignition warning light is on the same circuit as the brake fluid indicator, so does that work? If your car has not been modified (electrically) then the main fuses are the ones on the nearside wing. Perhaps some wiring has chafed behind the dash. If so it needs careful checking with a meter as it could turn into a fire hazard.
Regards,

[metalmickey]

Many thanks, I will have a check but it may be time for more drastic approach as a lot of the wiring seems to be degrading. I don't know if its feasible for DIY replacement wiring loom. I'll have do some research especially as you say it could be a fire risk! Thanks for your reply.

[PPV]

Hi, you can get the loom in sections as per the manual. It is a bit stiff especially I found around the centre console. There are several companies that can provide them and especially if you are upgrading the fuse part of the wiring to give more protection then discuss with the providers first.
Best of luck. Let us know how you get on.
Regards,

[Doherto]

Hi, i have recently rewired my 240 engine bay and dash installing a 20 way fuse board and 7 relys to afford protection. I bought all the wire and parts from Vehicle Wiring Products and figured it out myself. I am in the middle of a restoration so access was easier but with basic electrical knowledge and a methodical approach it is "dooable" i have, as requested written it up for the club mag but do not know when it will be printed. I also documented the basics in the electrical section of this forum. Finally if you would like to discuss please contact me via private messaging with your contact details and i will be happy to pass on my experiance.

[Doherto]

Sorry, should have referenced the article, se the chris dixon "adding relays" post