main relay in early celica RA28

[normo]

well the ignition lights only come on just before the starter engages. When I let thee key go the ignition lights go out. Car did start before now this problem. Is it a main relay problem.
If so where is the main relay ?? near drivers kick panel?
It is not the ignition switch.

[leso]

Normo,
mate it does sound like it could be your ign switch Have you replaced it ?..or should i say how do you know it's not your ign switch..

les

[normo]

I tried 2, TWO other ignition switches and exactly the same thing. So I know its not that

[timbosaurus]

Without completely understanding the syptoms, I can only suggest the obvious... fuses.

BUT, if they seem ok, check the following.

1) remove the fuse block (beneath the steering wheel to the right) by undoing the two screws that hold it in and have a look at the back.
2) I can't remember whether it's the top row of terminals, or the bottom row, but one row will have 3 'groupings' of terminals. One group provides permenant power to fuses like headlight, cigarette lighter, radio (maybe?). The second group provides accessory power to fuses for indicators, heater fan, engine fuse etc. The third provides something which i can't remember off the top of my head
3) Check that there are 12 volts on the row of connectors which are supposed to provide power all the time. If so, you have a wire running to the battery... congratulations
4) Check that the other group of terminals (accessories) has 12 volts when the ignition key is switched to accessories only. If so, your main relay is working. The main relay is switched by the signal from the acc terminal of the ignition switch, and feeds power to those terminals on the fuse block. If you have no power there, your main relay is faulty.

If this proves you have an ok main relay, post some more symptoms and we'll think more. ie: what do u mean by ignition lights? the battery charge light? oil light? I think some dash lights may be powered by the accessories side of the fuse block, so perhaps a faulty main relay could cause your symptoms. also, when the key is on ignition, do you have 12 volts at the coil (one side of the ballast resistor)?

Anyways, let us know.

cheers,
timbo

[normo]

OK you are pretty close.
The fuse block under the dash had a fuse called ENGINE. The fuse was not blown but it was not connecting (moisture caused slight corrosion)
I cleaned it and voila the ignition lights came on.
Thanks fellas

[timbosaurus]

yay....
.