I have a 97 RR 4.6 HSE with 105K miles and it's been a great truck. Yes, I get those failed water pumps, o2 sensors, etc....and yes,the $$ climb with each repair, but in general it has been very dependable.

Starting last week I've seen strange things. Fuse 9 blew, which is for the front windows and locks, but I replaced it,however,it appeared to leavea strange (burning electric wire smell) when it blew.I drove it for the remainderof theweekend. (weekend car) (FYI - For those not familiar with 97 and the internal fuse location, try replacing Fuse 9, when the passenger door remains locked and does not open...).

Now this weekend I tried to start to truck and it sounds like a dead battery. A few messages scrolled across the screen, but not the same each time I turned the key. It makes a clicking noise and the SRS lights up. I tried a battery jumper (portable), but it didn't have enough juice, it needed charging itself. I then went backtomy garage to get the jumper cables and when I returned back to the truck it really had a strong burning smell. Hence, I decided not to jump the battery and just disconnected itfora fear of something worse.

Does anyone have an idea what might be going on???

ps - The truck has been outsidefor thepast two weeks and it's gone down to freezing durnig the nights and some days.My guess is something is continuously running, but not sure anymore...help.

 

Get it straight to a shop that can track that down and in the mean time disconnect the battery so you don't burn up any more wiring harness.
Make sure to have it towed to the shop.

 

Hi Mike,
Thank you....it's nice to confirm.....I shouldn't play anymore with it.

Question: If the battery is disconnected, how do you get the trans into neutral?

I know that when the battery was connected you ususally jump with a 5amp fuse, but what do you suggest now?

Thanks again!!

 

Hook up the battery long enough to get the truck moved and then unhook it.