Classic/Antique Car Repair/Battery drainage

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Expert: - 3/3/2011


Question
Hi Vern I posses a 63 chevy bel air 4 dr
that drains my battery when the ignition is
off could you please help with some
suggestions as to why its doing that I'd really
Appreciate your expertise advice
                           Thanks
                        Westbound

Answer
Hi Josh:
A drain on the battery means some device that is still active
that is not connected to the ignition switch. Often times certain
lights will be wire directly to the battery. If this is the case,
you will have extra (small) wire connected to the positive post
on your battery. Check to make sure there is not a short or that
all lights, radio, cigarette lighter, etc. are off.

Also, the most likely cause is a hidden light that you can't see.
For example, the trunk light or the hood light and glove compartment
light stays on after these doors are closed. Best way to check for
these is in the dark. For trunk, pull the back seat out a bit. For the
hood, find a open spot under the dash that leads to the engine. For the
glove box, look under it.

Also, check interior lights, backup lights and tag lights. Sometimes
one of these will get stuck and stay on.

Classic/Antique Car Repair

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Vern Bullock

Expertise

Visit my website at: http://www.classytransportation.com/ I can answer most questions about autos built in the 60's 70's and 80's. Specifically, Lincolns, Rolls Royces and the Excaliburs. Mechanical issues and technical questions are my expertise. I also have a general knowledge of most older automobiles. Keep in mind, I can only provide answers if the questions are very specific and complete. Without details, I can only speculate and that's not good for solving your problem.

Experience

I have owned and maintained Silver Shadows for over 10 years now. I find most mechanics and even Rolls Royce mechanics have very little knowledge about these automobiles. I have researched these cars in quite a bit of detail and can pretty much tell you what is wrong, if you can describe the behavior in detail. I have saved quite a few RR owners a lot of money and aggravation due to improper diagnosis. I am the owner of Classy Transportation, LLC a luxury limousine service specializing in antique cars, classic cars, vintage cars and exotic cars.

Organizations
Classy Transportation, LLC Limousine Service.

Publications
All around the Internet

Education/Credentials
I hold a BS degree in computer science and a MS degree in mechanical engineering.

Awards and Honors
I regularly compete at car shows and average around a dozen awards annually.

Past/Present Clients
See Web site at: http://www.classytransportation.com/

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