Repair and Diagnosis: Service Precautions

Before Troubleshooting
^ Check applicable fuses in the appropriate fuse/relay box.
^ Check the battery for damage, state of charge, and clean and tight connections.
^ Check the alternator belt tension.

CAUTION:
^ Do not quick-charge a battery unless the battery ground cable has been disconnected, otherwise you will damage the alternator diodes.
^ Do not attempt to crank the engine with the battery ground cable loosely connected or you will severely damage the wiring.

Handling Connectors
^ Make sure the connectors are clean and have no loose wire terminals.
^ Make sure multiple cavity connectors are packed with grease (except watertight connectors).




^ All connectors have push-down release type locks.
^ Some connectors have a clip on their side used to attach them to a mount bracket on the body or on another component. This clip has a pull type lock.




^ Some mounted connectors cannot be disconnected unless you first release the lock and remove the connector from its mount bracket.
^ Never try to disconnect connectors by pulling on their wires; pull on the connector halves instead.




^ Always reinstall plastic covers.




^ Before connecting connectors, make sure the terminals are in place and not bent.




^ Check for loose retainer and rubber seals.




^ The backs of some connectors are packed with grease. Add grease if necessary. If the grease is contaminated, replace it.
^ Insert the connector all the way and make sure it is securely locked.




^ Position wires so that the open end of the cover faces down.

Handling Wires and Harnesses
^ Secure wires and wire harnesses to the frame with their respective wire ties at the designated locations.




^ Remove clips carefully; don't damage their locks.




Slip pliers under the clip base and through the hole at an angle, then squeeze the expansion tabs to release the clip.
^ After installing harness clips, make sure the harness doesn't interfere with any moving parts.
^ Keep wire harnesses away from exhaust pipes and other hot parts, from sharp edges of brackets and holes, and from exposed screws and bolts.




^ Seat grommets in their grooves properly.

Testing and Repairs
^ Do not use wires or harnesses with broken insulation. Replace them or repair them by wrapping the break with electrical tape.
^ After installing parts, make sure that no wires are pinched under them.
^ When using electrical test equipment, follow the manufacturer's instructions and those described in this manual.




^ If possible, insert the probe of the tester from the wire side (except waterproof connector).




^ Use a probe with a tapered tip.
^ Refer to the instructions in the Honda Terminal Kit for identification and replacement of connector terminals.