Couple of quick Q's

[RG]

First up we have an electrical question (I hate electrics btw). Is it normal for the dash lights and headlights to dim a little when I use the power window switches? Slightly noticeable using one switch, quite noticeable when using more than one. I have never noticed it before tonight and was thinking that either;
A: I really don't pay much attention to detail
B: It is an earthing issue

Secondly is a rocker cover question (I like engine bay stuff). Are the rocker cover gaskets easily replaced, mine are weeping oil through the bolt holes, and are the rocker covers able to be taken off without the need to remove the intake manifold. If it is a pretty straightforward job I can feel a quick project coming on, red or black rocker covers is a decision to be made.

Cheers for any advice.

[BLACKAUXR8]

I dont think my lights dim on mine when using the windows? I could just not be paying attention as well though.

[Werd.]

Yeah they use a bit of power... Use a window and watch the tacho carefully. Revs drop a little then increase again.

[JC]

Windows draw a bit of power - turn the car off and wind them back up and you will see how long it takes on battery only (ie it's slower than with car running). However, keep an eye on it, as if it gets worse, it may be a sign that your battery and/or alternator are on their way out (though I don't think this is the case at the moment).

As for rocker covers - yes, you need to remove top part of intake manifold - you can't get to a couple of the bolts that hold the rocker cover on with the manifold in place. There's only about 6 bolts or so, so it's not a hard job (even Austin has done it) - just remember to take the 5 litre plate off, as it hides at least one bolt.

[FGII-XR6]

mine don't dim at all you might have a bad earth

[RG]

Originally Posted by JC

Windows draw a bit of power - turn the car off and wind them back up and you will see how long it takes on battery only (ie it's slower than with car running). However, keep an eye on it, as if it gets worse, it may be a sign that your battery and/or alternator are on their way out (though I don't think this is the case at the moment).

As for rocker covers - yes, you need to remove top part of intake manifold - you can't get to a couple of the bolts that hold the rocker cover on with the manifold in place. There's only about 6 bolts or so, so it's not a hard job (even Austin has done it) - just remember to take the 5 litre plate off, as it hides at least one bolt.

I just realised that mine will will be different to remove the rocker covers. I have the GT40 upper which I think gives a bit more room.

[RspecAU]

Something that might help with ur window issue is to add relays in the wiring harness in the door. I have heard this will help with the power drain but i'm not sure what wires you would need to wire into, maybe someone on the forums knows how and could put up a diagram to do this. This would also help with the problems that many people have with the contacts in the switchs due to carbon build up and stops them from working.

Cheers Mark

[FGII-XR6]

The only way this will work is if you fring large gague wiring from the battery direct to feed the relays thus eliminating voltage drop in the main feed to the cars accessory circuit. but you would need this run to each door

Originally Posted by RspecAU

Something that might help with ur window issue is to add relays in the wiring harness in the door. I have heard this will help with the power drain but i'm not sure what wires you would need to wire into, maybe someone on the forums knows how and could put up a diagram to do this. This would also help with the problems that many people have with the contacts in the switchs due to carbon build up and stops them from working.

Cheers Mark

[b2tf]

Originally Posted by RedXR347

First up we have an electrical question (I hate electrics btw). Is it normal for the dash lights and headlights to dim a little when I use the power window switches? Slightly noticeable using one switch, quite noticeable when using more than one. I have never noticed it before tonight and was thinking that either;
A: I really don't pay much attention to detail
B: It is an earthing issue

Secondly is a rocker cover question (I like engine bay stuff). Are the rocker cover gaskets easily replaced, mine are weeping oil through the bolt holes, and are the rocker covers able to be taken off without the need to remove the intake manifold. If it is a pretty straightforward job I can feel a quick project coming on, red or black rocker covers is a decision to be made.

Cheers for any advice.

Russ, my window switches do this too, the cluster goes dim. I wanted to fix it by putting those bigger terminals on, it didnt fix it, but I can live with it.

The rocker covers can be taken off without pulling off the manifold, I have done it, and yes the rocker cover gaskets are easy to replace. The ford ones are reusable though, but yours might have just had their day or something. Do the rockers Black and put the Tickford wings on in Red, it'll look great.

[RG]

Originally Posted by b2tf

Russ, my window switches do this too, the cluster goes dim. I wanted to fix it by putting those bigger terminals on, it didnt fix it, but I can live with it.

The rocker covers can be taken off without pulling off the manifold, I have done it, and yes the rocker cover gaskets are easy to replace. The ford ones are reusable though, but yours might have just had their day or something. Do the rockers Black and put the Tickford wings on in Red, it'll look great.

You my friend are a genius. How would I get the logo on there though, my painting skills aren't that great. Maybe take them to a pro.

[b2tf]

Originally Posted by RedXR347

You my friend are a genius. How would I get the logo on there though, my painting skills aren't that great. Maybe take them to a pro.

Get a signwriter to make you up a template, or if you have the patience, mark out the logos with tape and spraypaint in the gaps.

And JC, you callin me stoopid or summit?! : :hihi:

[JC]

Originally Posted by b2tf

And JC, you callin me stoopid or summit?! : :hihi:

LOL. No, not at all - I just remember your thread about doing something with taking the rocker covers off - you had so much info at the end I'm sure you did it blindfolded with both arms tied behind your back, wielding the spanner with your teeth!