Help Plz - Electrical Problem?

Broke down last week in my 1994 Range Rover Classic 200tdi with a battery which wasn't holding charge. Got it checked and was told alternator was fine. Get a new battery.

Well, last night I got a new battery and started first time, perfect. Tried the lights, great.

This morning, after driving for 10 miles on motorway the speedo and rev counter started fluctuating between 0 and my actual speed. Also noticed at this time, the electric windows and front wipers were'nt working. Rear one was though. I thought this could just be blown fuses.

Soon after this (still on the motorway), everything cut out, so pulled over towards the hard shoulder and it kicked into life. I noticed a metallic ratling noise had stopped. Drove it steady for another 5 miles almost to my destination without problems, it showed signs of cutting out again.

Finally reached my destination and as I parked a potent burning smell filled the cabin and I switched off imediately.

Any idea what the problem could be?

Thanks
Jon

sounds like a short some where.Check all yer wires and connections

i'd get the alternator checked again,sounds like it's fubar.

Thanks guys!

I've just tried to start it and it ticked a few times the first time and totally dead after that.

Battery (full charge) shouldn't be dead after 20 miles drive should it?

Even with a fubar'ed alternator?

Jon

if it's not being charged by the alternator i wouldn't be surprised if it was flat after 20 miles,just leaving an interior light on overnight will flatten a lot of batteries.

Agreed...on my Astra MK2 that had a duff alternator I could get about 7 miles before battery was dead...and I daresay you have more electrical components on the RR.

Potent burning smell isn't good! Any idea where it was coming from?

could be the hand brake cable shorting if you can smell burning,
there was a thread on it not long ago, do a search on it mate that'll help ya

Mate had a handbrake cable acting as the vehicle earth and it burnt out half his wiring harness.

redhand said:

Mate had a handbrake cable acting as the vehicle earth and it burnt out half his wiring harness.

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thanks red i knew you'd back me up on this one

i thought it was you that posted it last time but wasn't sure