Problem with radio and power windows after rain storm

[1955moose]

Here's a good one for you guys and girls . It rained real heavy last night in San Feancisco. This afternoon my 2000 expedition's radio worked then didn't, power windows didn't work then came online. Later radio worked fine, power windows worked fine, but both work with key off. What seems to power radio off is pushing window washer, or activating wipers . Nothing seems to power off windows now. They work with key off. Oh yes earlier while talking to neighbor with truck running starter was activating by it self, like some one was in truck turning key to starter engage. I know the rain was culprit but what failed? Ignition electrical switch or wiper switch, or something else. Got to love them Fords for their wacky problems.

 

[Bedrck47]

check under the drivers side dash for any signs of a water leak or and water on the fuse box/GEM Sounds like you have a windshield leak and water got into the fuse box/gem If this is the case you may be able to dry it out with a hair dryer or worse case you may have to remove the fuse box/gem to dry it

 

[GAINMOB]

its not ford...its who ever had the truck before u not taking care of the truck...wiring problem...electrical problem...i havent had any problems that have left me feeling like its a POS...and i have an 04

 

[Ripp]

Sound like water on the back side of the fuse box . jumping the terminals

 

[1955moose]

How do I dry it out. Do you think it will fix itself by normal drying out?

 

[Bedrck47]

as I posted take a hair dryer and use it to dry out the fuse block and gem

Did you notice any water under the fuse block.

The other method to use would be to remove the fuse box/gem and dry it out in the oven on low temp. Once you remove the assembly shake the assembly to see if any water is in it

The 1st gen's are know for leaking windshields and leaking onto the module and causing the issues you are having Been well documented here on the forum

 

[Bedrck47]

If you do remove the fuse box assembly You need to remove the two large connectors on the back of the fuse box They are held in place with a hex head bolt. When reinstalling the connectors be very careful so that you don't bend any pins which would cause further problems. Also don't force any of the plastic dash parts but use a little force so you don't break anything.

Find the source of the leak and have it sealed

 

[1955moose]

I will thanks

 

[1955moose]

You mentioned about module, where is it located under dash? Also are you referring to fuse box inside vehicle or the main one under hood in engine bay? Thanks.

 

[Bedrck47]

Read my first post which explained where the fuse box and gem are

The gem module is mounted to the fuse box under the dash on the drivers side

 

[1955moose]

To roxy 1255, sealed window on my 2000 expedition and put dielectric grease behind every connection and relay I could find. Seem to fix the electrical gremlins for now. Thanks for all the help.keep everyone posted.Moose.

 

[Bedrck47]

keep an eye on things as it may come back But at least you now have a good idea of what to look for If you have to remove the fuse box and gem Pay attention to the two connectors on the back of the fuse block and be very careful when re installing them so as to not bend any of the pins.

 

[1955moose]

Hey guys here's another weird deal I'm sure is an easy fix. I was changing the brake shoes last week for the emergency brake. What tool do you guys or girls use to compress the spring steel brake shoe hold down. I have checked with snap on, including their tech line. A tool store around the corner from me. Mac tool. Nobody seems to know. I talked to a mechanic at a Ford dealer by phone, he said he pushes them in with a screwdriver then slides it. That would be at the least a two man job. I'm thinking it must be a round tool with a protruded groove like used on Japanese cars. Any one got a brand and part number for me. Thanks Moose.

 

[1955moose]

Found the tool from lisle tool company, to compress the spring steel hold down clips for emergency brake shoes. If any of you doing this job, you will need it. Part number is 48400. Oh yea, one other piece of advice I found out the hard way, leave adjustment on shoes loose especially when changing brake cables. They seem to tighten after about 3-5 days, at least mine did.

 

[Bedrck47]

Just a suggestion
You should post this in a new thread since it is about the E-brakes and not what your original post was about.

also suggest that you Update your signature line with year model and engine information. This can be done in the USER CP section as this information helps others give you replies specific to your vehicle.

 

[1955moose]

I will, thanks. I'm new to this forum stuff. I'm not tech savvy, but I'm trying. You are really impressive on the expy's. Are you a Ford tech?

 

[Bedrck47]

Not a Ford Tech
Just a retired maintenance electrician
Have a nice Christmas

 

[1955moose]

You too roxy, I read in another thread about a speedo sensor to calibrate my 20" inch aftermarket wheels to computer. My mileage is horrible. Only about 9mpg. It's a 4x4 with street tires. Runs decent, passed smog, no check engine light. I should get at least 11mpg. Any thoughts? Thanks Moose.

 

[thenaaks]

20" wheels don't necessarily alter the speedo. Is the overall diameter of the tire that determines whether or not your speedo is accurate.