Checking the engine compartment wiring (every 20,000 km or 12 months) (Transit 2)

1. After parking the car on a level horizontal surface, apply the parking brake and raise the hood. Using a flashlight, inspect all visible wiring within and under the engine compartment.

2. Pay attention to any visible damage to the wiring resulting from friction against sharp edges, the drive belt, or moving components of the suspension or transmission, as well as pinching between carelessly installed components or forced contact with hot engine parts, cooling pipes, etc. Almost all such damage is caused, first of all, by improper installation of parts during previous repairs.

3. Depending on the extent of the damage, the break in the circuit can be repaired either by simply soldering the broken ends or by extending the wire to the required length. Soldering ensures a good connection, and for better insulation, wrap the wires with adhesive electrical tape. If the damage is extensive, it is better to completely replace the damaged part to be on the safe side, but this can be expensive.

4. Once the damage is repaired, make sure the wiring is routed correctly. Route the wires so that they do not touch other components, are not excessively stretched or twisted, and secure them with pre-prepared plastic clips, guides and ties

5. Check all electrical connectors and ensure they are clean, securely fastened, and covered with plastic ties or clips. If any of the connectors shows external signs of corrosion (white or green deposits, or "rusty" streaks) or contamination, that connector should be removed from the socket and cleaned with a special cleaning agent. If the connector terminals are heavily corroded, the connector must be re-wired. Please note that sometimes replacing the connector requires completely replacing part of the braid - contact your Ford dealer for details.

6. If the cleaning fluid has completely removed the corrosion, leaving the connector in a satisfactory condition, the connector should be packed with a suitable material that will exclude dirt and moisture, preventing re-occurrence of corrosion - contact your dealer for advice.

7. Check the condition of the battery connections and, if necessary, replace the current leads with new ones or otherwise tidy up the connections. Similarly, check all grounding points in the engine compartment, ensuring good electrical contact through metal-to-metal connections. Remember that in addition to the grounds in the cylinder block and starter, there are other grounds in other locations, so be careful.