this is the second battery i've put in my 69 chevelle maybe 3 months old something is draining the battery it won't start without a jump i've got 3 relays 2 for the dual fans and 1 for the electric fuel pump it's a 1 wire altenator but i think it was originally a 3 wire from the factory this is a brand new crate motor i have a horn relay that has a live wire but i do not have a horn hooked up could this be draining the battery i'm a novice at electrical so any help would be appreciated how can i test this to see what is killing the battery thanks in advance
jim murphy

The horn relay has a "BAT" terminal that is needed for a point of main power connection even if the horn is disconnected but it shouldn't be the cause unless it's energized - is the relay warm to the touch?

you're right, these cars didn't have a one wire alternators.

Might think about getting a float charger, the're good for cars that don't get driven much as they'll make a battery last much longer.

Do you know how to check for a parasitic battery drain?

http://www.chevelles.com/forums/showthread.php?t=188475

http://www.chevelles.com/forums/showthread.php?t=182746

http://www.chevelles.com/forums/showthread.php?t=133604

http://flashoffroad.com/electrical/CurrentDrain/currentdrain.pdf

http://www.autoshop101.com/trainmodules/batservice/118.html

Whatever is draining your battery is not making any noise, so you can rule out the horns and the fans. Take a look at things like glove box lamps, trunk lamps and so on. Also, disconnect that alternator and see if it sparks when you touch the 12v wire to the post on the alternator. You could also try disconnecting things or pulling fuses in a systematic way until you identify the cause of the drain.

You could also try disconnecting things or pulling fuses in a systematic way until you identify the cause of the drain.

This is the easiest method, try removing the positive battery terminal and if you don't have a test light go get one. The can be had at most chain stores for about 5 bucks for a cheapo. Connect the test light clip to the positive battery cable that you unhooked. Hold the pointed probe of the test light to the battery positive terminal. If it lights, you have a drain. (Make sure the key is off, and you might have to take the interior lamp out as it will try to light with the door open) Have a friend hold the test light to the battery and one at a time, remove and replace fuses until the test light goes out. When it does, you have found the offending circuit. Then you can decide if it is something that needs immediate attention, or something that can wait. If it can wait....leave the fuse out. Just make sure it isn't a critical device, such as tail lamps or something of that nature. Let us know what you come up with!

You can do the same with the negative battery cable also.

This reply is dead on......