2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Battery discharging

[ctopp]

What could be discharging my batteries when it is parked. Takes about 7 days to discharge.

ctopp

 

[drag racer]

I have a '99 also, and drive my truck infrequently. I charge the batteries on an every three weeks schedule, and by that time, they are major discharged, always have been. I've never measured it, but I think our rigs have a fair amount of constant draw when off for something - maybe the radio memory, alarm, other black boxes?, etc.

 

[Road Dog]

It should go 6+ months without a charge (but charge anyway). You need to start pulling fuses and measure the current draw (with an ammeter set to 10A across the fuse contacts). A common failure is the seat belt solenoid (that locks/unlocks the seat belt) staying energized but it could be almost any stuck relay. Sometimes the glove box switch fails and the light remains on.

 

[ctopp]

OK, so what am I looking for? How much amp draw is too much? I have a number of after market accessories and a painless wiring fuse box. I can check that tto but not sure I understand what to look for.

 

[Road Dog]

Your two batteries will provide around 150 amp-hrs of power (more or less). Seven days is a little under a 1A draw. It should be less than 5mA (0. 005A). Most of the lights on the truck draw 1 - 2 amps depending on the size. If there's an alarm system it will probably draw a little more.

 

[HHhuntitall]

I'd check for the seatbelt circuits... . I've tracked a draw into the cab on my '98, around the lower part of the cab. I'm guessing the seat belt brakes? But why are they drawing a current when parked... . Grrr. Seems all the later '98s with 12 valves do it..... Anyone?

 

[ewcmr2]

You need to start pulling fuses and measure the current draw (with an ammeter set to 10A across the fuse contacts).

It's easier to put the ammeter at the battery and then just pull fuses until you get a significant change.

 

[ctopp]

HHHuntinall had it right. It was the seat belt retractor solonoid discgarharging 0. 5 Amps. So where is a good source for a replacement part.

p/n p56043003rd

 

[HHhuntitall]

HHHuntinall had it right. It was the seat belt retractor solonoid discgarharging 0. 5 Amps. So where is a good source for a replacement part.

p/n p56043003rd

Which side? Mine I think is on the driver side... ... ugh, I don't want to pull the plastic off... . Any easy way to get to it?

 

[ctopp]

I couldn't find an alternate source so I purchased it from the local dealer for $136. It is located under the console and I believe it serves both fron seatbelts, maybe backseat too. Sure fells good to have my truck back in good operating condition.

 

[DODGEDADDIE]

So where is the SEAT BELT solonoid at??

How do I test it?



THANKS

Mike In Maine

 

[cgoder]

Dodge daddie?

Did you find the switch?