Electrical Issues: Switch quits, clock resets

[okcrewed]

This is one of those weird ones to diagnose, and I can only guess it is a bad starter switch on the column. Every once in a while, not consistently, I insert the key, turn it and nothing happens. And the key can't be removed. After a while, sometimes after doing something as simple as releasing the hand brake, it reconnects and starts right up. However, the clock will be reset to 12:00. And sometimes, when I get in and start up the car, the clock resets anyway. Got any ideas or maybe even similar experience? My second option, after posting here, is to head to the local GMC service shop.

 

[okcrewed]

This is one of those weird ones to diagnose, and I can only guess it is a bad starter switch on the column. Every once in a while, not consistently, I insert the key, turn it and nothing happens. And the key can't be removed. After a while, sometimes after doing something as simple as releasing the hand brake, it reconnects and starts right up. However, the clock will be reset to 12:00. And sometimes, when I get in and start up the car, the clock resets anyway. Got any ideas or maybe even similar experience? My second option, after posting here, is to head to the local GMC service shop.

So, it looks like one lead off the battery is loose and can't be tightened. Now, I'm looking to replace the two (apparently OEM) battery connectors with something that can be tightened down.

 

[rascole]

Factory battery clamps are known to be problematic. Most people will cut them off and crimp/clamp/solder new heavy duty style. Make sure the posts and clamps are clean.

 

[650Hawk]

Factory battery clamps are known to be problematic. Most people will cut them off and crimp/clamp/solder new heavy duty style. Make sure the posts and clamps are clean.

Yup, first thing that EVERY H3 owner should do; hack those beaches off and install good battery cable ends. H3's are extremely sensitive to voltage variations, and the OEM battery cable clamps WILL cause issues. It's not IF, but WHEN.