Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2000 Ford ZX2 StandardFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Repairing Network Communications Wiring
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Ford RV Cutaway, 2002 Ford Econoline, 2002 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2002 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE:
The following procedure must be used to ensure proper repair is performed on communications network wiring. Communications network wiring is sensitive to moisture and oxidation and must be properly sealed to ensure proper operation of the module communications network. Regular heat shrink tubing is NOT sufficient, heat shrink tubing containing hot melt wax is required.
- When performing a repair on the communications network, ensure wires on are twisted at a rate of 33-40 winds per 3.3 ft. (1 m). The twists should start approximately 4.9" (124 mm) from any connector. Use only 20 AWG standard wire gauge for repairs.
- If performing a splice, strip .75" (19.0 mm) of insulation from one wire and 1.50" (38.1 mm) of insulation from the other wire. Perform STEP 1 in illustration. See Fig 1. Place Raychem SCT® or equivalent hot melt wax type heat shrink tubing over one wire.
- Twist stripped portion of wires together. Solder connection using Rosin Core Mildly Activated (RMA) solder. Bend wires to allow installation of heat shrink tubing. Perform STEP 2 in illustration. See Fig 1.
- Position heat shrink tubing over splice area. Using heat gun, evenly heat the heat shrink tubing until wax flows from both ends of heat shrink tubing.
CAUTION:
DO NOT use acid core solder.
Factory Service Tools
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.