1954 Mercury electrical

[Joe Harrill]

I have a short in my '54 Mercury causing my battery to drain down. The car has been converted to 12 volts, alternator and plastic type wiring. I suspect the problem may be in the steering column. Any suggestions or help would be appreciated. Thanks Joe

 

[LOWRIDER]

Disconnect one of the battery cables & install a 12v test light in series between the cable & post. If there is a drain in the system the test light will light up. If it lights up start disconnecting electrical components one at a time until the test light goes out. When the light goes out you've found the area of the drain. Take the bulb out of the courtesy light 1st, otherwise you'll show a drain in the system as long as the door is open.

 

[Motorhead6]

Good advise from Lowrider.

I had a similar problem after I had a radio installed. The technician had unplugged my alternator to do the install. When he re-plugged it, he put it on the wrong terminal on the top of the alternator. This was a GM unit and would feel warm to the touch after a while. Good luck finding the "short".

 

[Y-Blockhead]

While hunting down the source of your short as Dan outlined, also disconnect an aftermarket radio if installed. They continuously use power that will show in your testing (for the clock and memory for preset stations). Also if your car has an electric clock, disconnect it while testing.

 

[34pickup]

You could start by pulling fuses. One at a time to see what circuit is draining.

 

[paul2748]

Don't forget to check the alternator. Diodes go bad and you will get a drain.