Diagnostic Test Procedures

A diagnostic test procedure is:
- a systematic method of checking the functioning of a vehicle control system to determine if it is operating normally.
- a systematic method of analyzing and testing a vehicle control system to determine the source of a malfunction.

GUIDELINES FOR PERFORMING DIAGNOSTIC TEST PROCEDURES
All test procedures assume that Chrysler's DRBII diagnostic read out box is being used.

Refer to HELP 1 - Operation of the DRBII for Diagnostic Testing for instructions on connecting the DRBII to the diagnostic connector and instructions on how to get to the diagnostic program tests.

To properly perform diagnostic testing of the speed control or charging systems using the test procedures, ALWAYS start with Test SP-1A. Starting with any other test may result in incorrect fault diagnosis.

- Make sure the vehicle being tested has a fully charged battery.
- Review HELP 5 - Safety Instructions before performing the test procedures.
- Perform a visual inspection of the connectors and wiring of the circuit being worked on prior to beginning a diagnostic test. For instructions, see "Visual Inspection" found earlier in this section, and to HELP 3 - Visual Inspection of Electrical Connectors.
- The tests are presented in modified flowchart form.

- The first two columns contain instruction statements. Perform each instruction in order. Perform each instruction as stated.
- The third column contains diagnostic questions. Answer each question with a "yes" or "no" answer.
- The fourth column contains repair or replacement instructions. Perform only the repair replacement instruction(s) that follow from the "yes" or "no" answer to each question.
- To proceed from one process box to another, follow the direction of the lines between the boxes as indicated by the arrows.
- If a test is continued, an instruction is given in an arrow-shaped "box" to direct you to the next page or to another test.

NOTE: Tests are identified by a number/letter combination, such as Test SP-1A or Test CH-5C. To avoid confusion between the number 1 and the letter "I" and between the number 0 and the letter "O", no test identifications use the letters "I" or "O".

- When testing voltage or continuity at the engine controller, use the terminal side (not the wire end) of the connector. Probing a wire through the insulation will damage it and eventually cause it to fail because of corrosion.
- Be careful when performing electrical tests so as to prevent accidental shorting of terminals. Such mistakes can damage fuses or components. Also, a second fault message could be set, making diagnosis of the original problem more difficult.
- Use the DRBII voltmeter unless otherwise instructed to use an "external" voltmeter.

NOTE: Under no circumstances should a test lamp be used in place of a voltmeter.

- Use the DRBII voltmeter unless otherwise instructed to use an "external" voltmeter. After each repair is completed, perform the appropriate verification test procedure (SP-VER).