First I'd like to appologize in advance if this topic was discussed previously. I am new to this forum and could not find anything on this topic using the search function.
My step-son has a 1999 ES300, which he called from school the other day to say the car wouldn't start and the lights on the dash were dim/out. Sounded like a dead battery so i told him to have capus police give him a jump. They used a jump pack, but the car didn't start. After using a second jump pack, the car started but died within 30 seconds or so.
When I got out to the car, I used jumper cables and was able to get it started again, but within 30 seconds or so she died again. I assumed the alternator. After replacing the alternator, and charging the battery before attempting to start it again, same problem (died after running for about 30 seconds or so. After doing some research, my next ste is to check the mainand ALT fusable link. I have examined the 100 amp FL and, if I'm not going crazy or blind, there looks to be a clear gap in the middle of the link. Tghen again, the other three or four FL in the block look the same way.
What is the best way to test these FL while still in the holder? I understand that removing one of these links are a bit involved (they don't just pop out like a regular fuse).
Is there anything else I should be checking? The service manual says I should check other fuses, but is non-descript as to which fuses, and where to find them.
Thanks for any help in advance.
