QuestionI have a 1997 AWD Chevy Astro Van. I have owned it for 3 years. For the past 2 years it oftentimes flickers all the electrical lights when it is operating (either sitting or driving). It seems to be more evident when it is raining, but it doesn't make much difference. Lately it has even started to blink the "red battery light on the instrument panel". The lights just flicker on and off very rapidly, sometimes slower than others. From my paperwork, it is evident that the previous owner replaced the alternator every year or so. However, I've tested the alternator and it is fine. Also, I just replaced the battery and it didn't make a difference. I've taken it to 3 different Chevy dealers. Each time it didn't flicker the lights and they were unable to test it. What could it be?
Thanks,
Nathan
AnswerA loose wire connection.
Look for the ground wire from the intake manifold to the firewall, and make sure it is clean and tight.
You can use some jumper cables from the battery ground post, and when it is flickering, make direct contact to the engine block, frame, and firewall, and see if any of those connections cause the blinking to quit.
If that ground wire is missing, the vehicle could be completing the ground thru the motormounts, "U"joints, and shift linkage.
Van
Van
