I have a D-reg. Mk.1 XR4x4, and there is a slight, but constant, drain on the battery when it sits for a while.
The battery checked OK, but after only about 3 or 4 days, there is not enough to start it.

I've put an ammeter in series with the battery, and then removed each fuse in turn to see what part of the
loom was drawing current, but that didn't show anything.

Someone suggested that the central locking system solenoids in the doors might be draining current. The car
usually sits unlocked in the garage, and in that state I am getting a flat battery.

I will try locking it to see if there is any difference, but does anyone else have any idea of what to look for ?

Alan.

 

I had an issue when I first bought my sapphire.

Turned out it was the interior light, it wasn't on but after changing the housing and bulbs it was fine.

Could be worth checking the pin switches that trigger the interior lights.

Any old alarms or bad wiring to radios etc all worth alook over

 

Disconnect the alternator, may have a diode with an internal short or something.

you'll have to insulate the wiring if its the ring terminal connector, for testing.

 

I presume you were using an analogue (i.e. mechanical) ammeter? If so, you won't be able to measure a parasitic draw, which is milliamps via the same.

Martin