General information and precautions

The body electrical system consists of all lights, wash/wipe equipment, interior electrical equipment, and associated switches and wiring.

The electrical system is of the 12 volt negative earth type. Power to the system is provided by a 12-volt battery, which is charged by the alternator (see Chapter 5).

The engine electrical system (battery, alternator, starter motor, ignition system) is covered separately in Chapter 5.

Precautions
Warning: Before carrying out any work on the electrical system, read through the precautions given in “Safety first!” at the beginning of this manual, and in Chapter 5.

Prior to working on any component in the electrical system, the battery negative lead should first be disconnected, to prevent the possibility of electrical short circuits and/or fires.

    See also:

    Conversion factors
    Length (distance) Inches (in) x 25.4 = Millimetres (mm) x 0.0394 = Inches (in) Feet (ft) x 0.305 = Metres (m) x 3.281 = Feet (ft) Miles x 1.609 = Kilometres (km) x 0.621 = Miles Volume (capacity) ...

    Radiator fan - removal and refitting
    All models except RS Turbo Removal 1 Disconnect the battery negative terminal. 2 Disconnect the wiring plug at the fan motor and unclip the wiring from the shroud. 3 On pre-1986 models the fan sh ...

    Fuel computer components - removal and refitting
    Computer unit Removal 1 Disconnect the battery negative terminal. 2 Undo the two instrument panel bezel retaining screws and ease the bezel out to release the lower clips. 3 Withdraw the compute ...