[FWDLK] Dead battery diagnosis?

[David Homstad <Dhomstad@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Greg,

It could be the ignition switch, but if it is always on, how does the engine
shut off?

I would try:

1. Disconnect the battery cable and see if the battery goes dead overnight.
(defective battery)
2. Make sure you do not have a light constantly on: trunk, under hood, dome,
brake, glove box, map light, etc. (defective light control switch or shorted
wire) (I have most of these problems over the years.)
3. Accessories that should be off, with the key off, should not work.
(defective ignition switch)
4. Disconnect the battery cable and using an amp meter, measure the current
draw when everything is off. There should be no current flow causing a drain
on the battery. If there is a current flow, you will have to trace where the
current is going by starting at the battery and following the flow using a
wiring diagram. Eliminate one circuit at a time.

Good luck,

Dave Homstad
56 Dodge D500

-----Original Message-----
From: Forward Look Mopar Discussion List
[mailto:L-FORWARDLOOK@xxxxxxxxxxxxx]On Behalf Of Greg Buffalow
Sent: Thursday, June 28, 2001 5:35 PM
To: L-FORWARDLOOK@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: [FWDLK] Dead battery diagnosis?

My battery keeps going dead.  New alternator, new voltage
regulator, and new ballast resistor haven't solved the problem.
Now a new ignition switch is suggested.  The alternator appears
to be charging the battery, and the battery (also new) will
hold a charge if I use a charger, but it dies overnight.

The new ignition switch is suggested since it appears that the
circuit does not fully close, and it's like the ignition is always
turned to on.

Does this make sense?  Any suggestions on the correct fix would
be appreciated.
Thanks again,
Greg

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