Questions and Answers
Battery In Backwards
Q. Hello, I recently connected my vehicle battery backwards. Of course, wires were fried immediately. The problem is that my battery is not holding a charge. I have replaced the battery with a brand new one and then it's dead the next morning.
I've checked the alternator out with the old screwdriver to the back of the alternator test to see if it's magnetic and charging, and it seems to be charging. I have replaced the one (1) visibly melted wire, the wire connecting the solenoid to the alternator. I have also replaced the voltage regulator which is mounted on the side of the vehicle. I can't seem to figure out my next step.
The vehicle:
1977 Jeep CJ5
304 Engine
Manual, 3-speed transmission
20,000 rebuilt milesHopefully you can help me get to the bottom of this.
Thanks,
RyanA. Well, it's quite obvious there is a serious current draw somewhere but the bright side is that it is a simple electrical system so tracking it down shouldn't be too difficult. First thing to do is disconnect the positive battery terminal and put a test light between the terminal and battery post. If it lights, you have a draw. Next remove the fuses from the fuse box one at a time until the light goes out. Whichever one makes the light go out is the circuit that has the draw. Once you know that you can track down the wiring and locate the short.
If you read my article Electrical Troubleshooting it will have some helpful techniques for locating shorts.
Additional Information provided courtesy of ALLDATA
