Parasitic Draw

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04-01-2008, 01:18 PM

#41

alextothestars

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Join Date: Nov 2005

Posts: 405

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wiking

Not possible.

The issue was leaking from higher potential to ground. This can happen:
1a. via electronics devices by design
1b. via electronics devices by fault.
2. broken positive wire leaking to ground
3. Oxidized, wet, etc. connector or any positive point leaking to ground

If positive hi potential is missing, leak cant happen. If ground is missing, leak cant happen.

If an xtra route via soot appears from hi potential to gnd, sht may happen.

(Issue not included in this thread: supply resistance in oxidized wirings resulting in no start or whatever electrical malfunction)

Yes, this is what I saw first hand. the potential will build up until you finally ground the postive cable. you will see tremendous amperage on your meter or the light bulb you test with will be very bright. if it stays connected, it will just continue to leak in small, steady portions. these leaks are very sneaky.

12-28-2008, 09:16 AM

#42

alextothestars

Senior Member

Thread Starter

Join Date: Nov 2005

Posts: 405

it's been a while, but i thought i would update on this situation.

the car still has a parasitic draw which has only been noticeable at temperatures below 30 degrees. I'm thinking that the re-manufactured alternator is to blame. it never did this until i put this alternator on.