Battery hooked up backwards

[Harley1997]

1997 jeep grand Cherokee Laredo 4wd 4.0 I6. Tried to swap the battery and put it in backwards, then put the original battery back in the right way and it started sparking and smoking. Does anyone know just how much damage I did?

 

[JPNinPA]

Well what is done is done. Its tough to tell. Here are some things to pay attention to:

Alternator/PCM - there are diodes for the alternator in the PCM.

The PCM - there are diodes and capacitors that are directional.

Radio-same as above.

If you tried starting or just turning the key to on may damage the starter and fuel pump.


FYI - The battery posts are two different sizes to keep this from happening.





Never look down on anyone unless you are helping them up - Jesse Jackson

 

[Harley1997]

The computer was already bad when I did this, not sure if that makes a difference.

 

[JPNinPA]

I doubt it made it better.


No the other stuff i mention is still suspect.

Never look down on anyone unless you are helping them up - Jesse Jackson

 

[Jeepergeo]

I'd suggest towing the Jeep to a good autoelectric shop and have them assess the damage. Their diagnosis fees will be money well spent.

 

[TerryMason]

I'd suggest towing the Jeep to a good autoelectric shop and have them assess the damage. Their diagnosis fees will be money well spent.

I like doing stuff myself, but this isn't bad advice. Maybe just let them diagnose the issues, and you fix them yourself.

 

[superj]

so what was the outcome?