I have a 1986 Chevy K30 with some sort of wiring issue. Driving it the other day and the headlights, taillights, dash lights, etc..... all went out. I did smell a bit of something burning for a second. I'm sure it's a short in the wiring but does anyone have any tips on how to find it quick and easy?? Any help is appreciated!!

 

If you lost all lights and are reasonably certain that you could "smell" burning, pull the headlight switch and check it's wiring connector.

Although those switches seldom fail, there is a problem there, as the switch is the heart of the lighting system.

If on the other hand, there is no evidence of burning at the connector and the fuse is intact, then we move on to other areas. That switch is your starting point, however.

Allan

 

Thank you - I will start with that and update with what I find out. Any other ideas if that isn't the problem?

 

Hi patti36,

Welcome to the Chevrolet Forums.

I would suspect your negative cable, and ground straps first.

Check your model's fusible links, if you have any, for that model,

many times they look a lot like a short section of 10 or 12 gauge

black wire. It should be easy to spot on the vehicle, either under the dash,

or under the hood, because the insulation will be burned up, and you should

easily be able to smell the burnt rubber. Two possible points would be under

the steering column, under the dash, and behind the alternator.