Basic Knowledge Required

GENERAL INFORMATION
Before attempting to diagnose the Continuously Variable Road Sensing Suspension (CVRSS) System, you must have a good understanding of electrical system basics and the use of testing tools. Without this basic knowledge, it will be difficult to use the diagnostic procedures detailed in this section. Some electrical basics, basic troubleshooting procedures and hints, and the use of circuit testing tools are discussed in the introduction of ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSIS.

^ Basic Electrical Circuits. You should understand the basic theory of electricity, series and parallel circuits, and voltage drops across series and parallel resistor systems. You should know the meaning of volts (voltage), amperes (current), and ohms (resistance). You should understand what happens in a circuit with an open wire or a wire shorted to ground or battery. You should be able to read and understand a wiring diagram.
^ Use of Circuit Testing Tools. You should know how to use a Digital Voltmeter (DVM) to measure voltage, current, and resistance. Be aware that when DVM use is requested, the first terminal listed in the check is intended to be connected to the positive (usually red) DVM lead. You should know how to use jumper wires to test circuits.

COMPUTER SYSTEM SERVICE PRECAUTIONS
The computer system is designed to withstand normal current draws associated with vehicle operation. However, care must be taken to avoid overloading any of these circuits. In testing for opens or shorts, do not ground or apply voltage to any of the circuits unless instructed to do so by the diagnostic procedures. These circuits should only be tested using a digital voltmeter if they remain connected to one of the computers. Power should never be removed or applied to one of the computers with the ignition switch in the "ON" position. Before removing or connecting battery cables, fuses, or connectors, always turn the ignition switch to the "OFF" position.

SOURCES OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
If you need basic knowledge of electrical troubleshooting, refer to ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSIS, containing helpful information in the introduction. Basic use of circuit testing tools is also covered in ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSIS.