ok, i just aquired a 1997 f150 w/ v6 and auto tranny that was abandoned at my job. the wiring seems screwy to me. It has the normal cables going to the battery, but also has a thick copper wire going to each battery terminal going from battery to connection directly behind it on the firewall that are held in place by the normal battery clamps. the previous owner said he has replaced the battery and alternator (and they both look new), but that the battery is not charging. I took the battery to auto zone to charge overnight, and it tested good the next day. i installed and it wouldn't start (no sounds from starter). It when i hook up all four leads to battery, the light under hood lights up, and door dinger sounds, but i get nothing from the ignition, or even sound from the radio. before i jump to conclusion that its a bad starter, i'm thinking that since i know there is an electrical problem that perhaps the starter's not gettting any juice. Also, i believe it is the fusible link between the battery and alternator is taped up to hold in place, could this be a source of problems? Also, i'm unfamiliar with the batter saver relay. What does this control, and is that something that might need to be looked at?
I was told to clean the electrical connections on another forum, but haven't had many responses. When i find my dad's multimeter, i'll check out the voltage levels. here's some pictures so you'll have a better idea of what i'm talking about.
these are the extra wires i was talking about (one terminal unconnected).
this is where the extra wires connect.
this is the taped up fusible link
hope anyone can give me any advice. i'm not a pro at auto repair, but have done my fair share. electrical problems are a pain in my backside though.
brandon