Posted: Tue Mar 10, 2009 6:47 pm
dusty wrote:When troubleshooting a problem like this, I often plug a bench light or drop light into the same circuit that the Mark V is plugged into. In this manner, I see evidence of what is happening to the power. A 50 watt drop light will flicker and dim slightly when the Mark V is turned on if the 15amp circuit is otherwise adequate and happy.
If there is a shortage of current available, the light will dim significantly and the breaker may trip. This condition may mean a rewire is in the near future but the fix could also be as simple as tightening the screws that attach the wall receptacle to the garage wiring.
These problems are simple to describe but are not always that simple to repair.
Whenever I find myself working in the main distribution panel for any reason, I tighten the screws that secure the wires within the breaker panel.
It never surprises me to find one sorta loose. A quarter turn can make a difference.
If you are going to do this, REMEMBER THAT EVERY ONE OF THOSE SCREWS IS HOT. USE AN INSULATED SCREW DRIVER, ONE HAND AND BE CAREFUL.
Just don't over tighten those breaker screws. You can crack the breaker or damage the wire itself. Tighter is not always the best solution when it comes to electrical connections.