Gary,
Here is one answer to that question- I had a similar problem with an 85
Impala several years ago. I tried the battery(fine), the charging
system(rebuilt the alternator) every thing. Then a mechanic I knew gave me a
tip. He said to pull the wires which supply power to the fuse box from the
solenoid, remove all the fuses, and then, using a meter, put one fuse in at
a time, and check for a reading between the battery cable to the solenoid,
and the power supply wire. Once you get a reading, then you know that
circuit is live, and there is your problem. Only thing is, I can't remember
if I used the continuity tester function, or the voltmeter. I believe it was
the voltmeter, but either should work. It turned out to be in my courtesy
light circuit- the trunk lid light bulb! It appears the trunk lid had been
open for an extended period of time, and the little solder bulb had melted
from the heat of long operation, and created a short across the metal cased
mercury switch, therefore remaining on constantly., and killing a perfectly
good battery in a matter of days. Remember, certain circuits are designed to
be constant hot- clock memory, computer, etc. but this is allowed for in the
electrical design. I recommend checking every other fuse first.
Good Luck
Scott
64 Herald 1200 Convertible with delucasized electrical system :)
----- Original Message -----
From: "Gary Nafziger" <naffy@netins.net>
To: <triumphs@autox.team.net>
Sent: Thursday, January 18, 2001 7:31 AM
Subject: Dan Masters?? non british
>
> Since reading your book......can't think of anyone else who knows better!!
> stumped with 95 neon. battery runs down within 7-10 days. (last time 4
days)
> had checked at two mechanics. (one independant mechanic and one
dealership)
> The electrical system checks out ok. Battery always shows no drain when
> they check it. Battery only 2 months old.
>
> my main question is: What in the world in the car could be shorting enuf
to
> drain the battery that never shows up as a drain when they test it?
>
> Could a new battery just not be holding a charge for more than a week or
so?
>
> sorry for the intrusion........but........stumped!!
> Gary, Frances Nafziger
> Box 25
> Wellman, Iowa
> naffy@netins.net
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