Changed alternator (Remanufactured NipponDenso from Autozone) yesterday, and everything was running well for 50 miles and a few trip. Then someone got into the car, started, and within seconds the AC/clock/temp stopped working (no electricity going). Pulled the 15A (Heater) and 10A (panel) fuses near driver seat and both looked OK. Any suggestions where to look before I look at the wiring diagram and take apart center console to find shorted/melted parts? Thanks.

 

Before starting to rip out the console,recheck all the fuses/circuit breakers both in the footwell and engine compartment.
The connectors to the AC/clock?temp unit are locked in to their sockets so shouldn't come out.
Strange coincidence this happens after an alternator replacement.

 

you missed a fuse or cb.

 

You did not state which year or model. Assuming 95 or later check the FR CIG fuse.

 

You are right on the $. It's a 95 and it was the FR CIG Fuse. Now I am intrigued and want to dig out the wiring diagram to see how the AC circuit is routed.

 

Don't tell me - a penny in the cig outlet? Been there twice so far.

 

Not penny but my son (who stuck the probes of multimeter to read voltage before and after starting) had accidently crossed the probes and shorted it.

 

It's a good way to impress the worried wife who comes in waving arms and saying half the car and is dead and this is the end of the vehicle and is all upset, and you go change the fuse and tell her is all right now fixed inside 2 minutes flat.

(Now is the time to ask if you can have that nice new IR impact wrench.)

 

Oh yeah, I've done that. "What, you want me to clean, sorry I got some major work to fix the car." After 2 minutes of work ya chill out in the garage for a few hours watching the race on Sunday afternoon. (With the hood up of course)

 

Unfortunately Dean, I have 2 timing belts and an egr pipe to replace this month, so I really will have to be doing work.