[d1_bradley]

Anyone know what the "normal" current draw is on a battery with the key off and no lights, lighter, NOTHING turned on? I know that there is some leakage through the alternator diodes but normally its minimal. Doing some dead battery "testing" and wondered what you might see if all is good. Mine is a '69 396 with ALL options and 62A alternator, if it matters.

------------------
Dave Bradley
www.corvetteforum.net/classics/d1_bradley
'69 SS396 ragtop
'33 3W Coupe
'65 Vette BB Roadster

 

[chevl71]

I think it should only be a few milliamps draw, with no lights or anything on.
If you're seeing real current flow, then somethings leaking too much.

------------------
Doug, Chevl71
TC #625, GACClub CM028, ACES 05023
(OO ss OO)
chevl71 homepage

 

[d1_bradley]

Well, before I blew the fuse in my Fluke, opps, it looked like maybe .13 Amps or so. Then spark, damn, looking for fuse time...... But thought I might ask, in case anyone had ever noticed. My NEW Orbital battery seems to run down in about 4 days with no activity. I'm currently (pardon the pun) testing with the cables disconnected to see if it "loses" its charge. Maybe time to visit the NAPA store again for another one.

 

[John_Muha]

I don't know the exact current number. Never measured it. Last mysterious drain problem I had was the mechanical regulator. Brand new Delco unit. Might try swapping in a Wells solid state regulator. Think AutoZone's price is $11.00. Took care of my drain problem.

 

[d1_bradley]

Regulator was my guess too, if the battery is good. Its new, from NAPA, but like you said, that doesn't mean squat anymore. Will play more with it this weekend after I find a fuse.

 

[Dean]

I read on the Delco trouble shooting page .4 amps max with everything off

 

[d1_bradley]

Found it! It was the 'evil' glove box light. Draws 214mA. With it fixed the draw is 0. All is well now. Thanks for all the replies.