How can i have power flowing in a circuit where 1 item works but rest of chain does not?

[cory123]

There is power flowing. I have checked with multimeter. One light on the line works..even replaced the switch it is connected to. Rest of line still down. Been down for months since a large storm although no indications of lightening strike. Replaced breaker on Sunday...no dice. On Tuesday power came back. This morning (wed) my son overloaded and tripped a completely seperate breaker that then caused the other line that had just mysteriously come back to go out once again. I replaced the breaker that had tripped as well. Still no go. I have checked the neutrals in the panel...in fact I moved the one from the bad circuit to an new open spot just to see. I am very confused. Nothing seems to be making sense. When I was replacing the breaker that tripped today on the opposite side of the box I did notice scoring or burns on the bus under the breaker above it although that breaker works fine. Might not be connected but wanted to give as much info as I could. Any thoughts from an electrician?

 

[westward10]

It sounds like you have a poor connection through the lighting circuit.
As for burn marks under the breaker are these Stab-Lok style breakers.

 

[cory123]

It sounds like you have a poor connection through the lighting circuit.

As for burn marks under the breaker are these Stab-Lok style breakers.

Stab-lok are the ones that hook on the bar and pop onto the bus plate correct? That's what mine are. I did recheck the connections behind the light fixture that does work and nothing is off. I know my basics which is why I am even more confused.

 

[westward10]

I would recommend you find an electrician there is only so far you can go.