battery drain problem

[Faulkner]

I received this question:

Hi Dan,
Sorry I missed it [Carlisle], I was having problems with the oil canister leaking everywhere. I did buy the spin on kit and the problem seems to have resolved it self some what. Now the battery completely drained itself. I can’t understand how a two year old new battery just drains without the car having any drain on it, unless I’m missing something like a ground. Any suggestions????

Gino S. Gentile
59 Plymouth Sport Fury

I replied:

Hi Gino,

If you had a bad ground, you could expect that equipment would behave erratically (starter, radio, lights, etc.). But the fact that your battery is draining suggests the opposite -- i.e., that there is a circuit that is on, drawing current, when it shouldn't be. You should pick up a cheap VOM or current indicator, and put it inline with your positive cable. If you're drawing current with the ignition off, time to start disconnecting wires to isolate the source (I'd look in the shop manual at what comes off the battery, and start disconnecting at various points). The ignition switch would be a good place to start...

I'd post to the '59 Forum too, and see what responses you get. Are you a member? Would you like me to post for you?

Anybody have a suggestion better than mine?

Dan

[rogerh]

Nope, your is the best reply, Dan. I will add that I've seen the brake light switch stick, causing the brake lights to stay on. Many people don't walk around the back of their cars, so this goes unnoticed.
As you've said, a faulty ignition switch can leave the ignition circuit on.
If you want to spend zero money diagnosing this, try using a 12v light bulb between battery and positive cable, while the car is shut off.