Help! How Do I Do A Current Draw Test?
Racer
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 439
Likes: 0
From: Framingham MA
Originally Posted by ziggy77
I'm trying to figure out whats killing my battery. How do i do a current drain test to see how many amps are beeing used. please help. thanks chris 
While not exactly scientific, quick or super-accurate, I found that the best method to get a true, at-rest, long-term, parasitic current drain value was to do multiple 12 or 24 hour drain downs and recharges with a known, low charging rate automatic battery charger. After three carefully conducted 24 hours tests, I was finally convinced that my C5's parasitic current drain was within the normal range and that there was no short or alternator/starter defect.
Monk
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 7,076
Likes: 26
From: Nevada and Florida
I just connect my DVM in series with the battery and set at the 750 mA scale. Turn off all power accessories and turn off hood light. Wait about 10 minutes for sleep mode. You should read about 60 mA.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 5,561
Likes: 447
From: Atlanta metro Ga.
Originally Posted by BHP
I just connect my DVM in series with the battery and set at the 750 mA scale. Turn off all power accessories and turn off hood light. Wait about 10 minutes for sleep mode. You should read about 60 mA.
