Update on trip computer flakiness with new Xenons (Help from Ed, James R, and other elec. wizards?)
01-08-2001, 01:29 PM
#1
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Update on trip computer flakiness with new Xenons (Help from Ed, James R, and other elec. wizards?)
OK, I have determined that the trip computer only goes on the fritz when the lights are turned on WHILE the computer is displaying info.
ie. I turn the computer off before I turn off the car, then start up the car again. I turn on my headlights, and THEN turn on the computer, all is OK. However, if I turn my lights off again, and put them back on, the computer display will disappear.
Therefore, I have determined that the initial startup current to the HIDs is causing the trouble.
I'm utilizing the stock headlight wiring up to about six inches from the bulb. Ballasts are housed under the headlights.
Any ideas as to the source of the interference? Are there any sensitive Trip electrical sending units near the lights? Or is it something to do with the Headlight-burnout warning function in the computer?
TIA!
ie. I turn the computer off before I turn off the car, then start up the car again. I turn on my headlights, and THEN turn on the computer, all is OK. However, if I turn my lights off again, and put them back on, the computer display will disappear.
Therefore, I have determined that the initial startup current to the HIDs is causing the trouble.
I'm utilizing the stock headlight wiring up to about six inches from the bulb. Ballasts are housed under the headlights.
Any ideas as to the source of the interference? Are there any sensitive Trip electrical sending units near the lights? Or is it something to do with the Headlight-burnout warning function in the computer?
TIA!
01-08-2001, 01:38 PM
#3
another thought
how about wiring the ballasts directly to the battery with a relay triggerd by the light circuit. That way the current draw would not be from or through the rest of the wiring in the car.
Jeff Davison
Jeff Davison
01-08-2001, 01:39 PM
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ideas...
How is the ballast->bulb wiring run? Near the 12V supply? Could couple some noise into the 12V line.
Is the problem caused by one lamp, the other, or both? (Try disconnecting one at a time)
The service manual/wiring diagram would help to see what sort of sensor detects bulb failure. Also might be intresting to see how/if this is detected on the stock HID units.
Is the problem caused by one lamp, the other, or both? (Try disconnecting one at a time)
The service manual/wiring diagram would help to see what sort of sensor detects bulb failure. Also might be intresting to see how/if this is detected on the stock HID units.
01-08-2001, 01:44 PM
#6
sometimes two identical electronic boxes can have different "signitures"
filtering the 12v line and/or ground may fix it or maybe isolating it is another fix (ground loop isolation?). Relay is the simplest and cheapest.
Jeff Davison
Jeff Davison
