If you are attempting to measure battery drain, you are doing it incorrectly. For one, you need an ammeter capable of measuring in milliamps. The test is performed by placing the ammeter in series with the circuit. If you disconnect the battery negative, you would place the ammeter between the cable and the battery negative post. You need to make sure there is no loads on the system larger than the fuse that protects the meter, or you open the fuse. Typically, I take the key out, and close the doors with all windows open. I use a knife switch, but you can take a jumper wire between the cable and battery post. Connect your meter set on amps, between the cable and post as well, and remove the jumper. Now all the load is routed through the meter. It is possible, if you use the meter and no jumper, that the initial spike can blow the fuse in the meter. Dial the scale down on the meter to the lowest unit of measurement(400 mA/40 mA etc), and that is your drain. A vehicle of your vintage should be fairly low, less than 15-20 mA.
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Monday, October 4th, 2010 AT 11:35 PM