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1997 f150 blinking dash lights causing the battery to go dead when ignition is off clicking sound from fuse-relay box under hood?

The 1997 Ford F-150 is known for having issues with the instrument cluster and electrical system, which could cause the symptoms you described. Here are some possible causes:

1. Faulty Instrument Cluster:

- The instrument cluster in your F-150 may have faulty components, such as a bad voltage regulator or circuit board, causing the blinking dash lights and battery drain.

2. Ignition Switch Problem:

- A faulty ignition switch can cause the electrical system to malfunction, including the dash lights and battery power, even when the ignition is off.

3. Electrical Short Circuit:

- A short circuit somewhere in the electrical system could be causing the blinking lights and battery drain. This could be due to damaged wires or faulty components.

4. Faulty Fuse or Relay:

- A blown or faulty fuse or relay in the fuse-relay box under the hood can cause electrical issues and may be the source of the clicking sound.

5. Battery or Alternator Issue:

- If the battery is old or damaged, it may not hold a charge properly, causing the electrical system to draw more power and eventually draining the battery. A malfunctioning alternator can also contribute to battery drain issues.

To diagnose the exact cause of the problem, it's best to have your F-150 inspected by a qualified mechanic or an auto electrician who can use diagnostic tools to pinpoint the source of the issue.