battery not staying charged

bobby d wrote:
>
> I've got a 74 Ghia whose battery keeps losing charge. The battery
> checks OK and the alternator seems OK (I can disconnect the battery
> with the car running and it keeps on running). I know I have an
> electrical short somewhere, so I disconnect the ground when I'm done
> driving for the day. Could what ever is shorting be enough to keep
> the battery from staying charged? Is the regulator bad? Any
> suggestions? THANKS
>

When you re-connect the ground every time does it spark? That's a
good sign there's a short...if no spark you might be right in
looking someplace else like the regulator. Have you tested what the
alt. is actually putting out w/ a voltmeter?

Jordan

JordanK wrote:
>
> jordanK wrote:
>>
>> bobby d wrote:
>>>
>>> I've got a 74 Ghia whose battery keeps losing charge. The battery
>>> checks OK and the alternator seems OK (I can disconnect the battery
>>> with the car running and it keeps on running). I know I have an
>>> electrical short somewhere, so I disconnect the ground when I'm done
>>> driving for the day. Could what ever is shorting be enough to keep
>>> the battery from staying charged? Is the regulator bad? Any
>>> suggestions? THANKS
>>>
>>
>>
>> When you re-connect the ground every time does it spark? That's a
>> good sign there's a short...if no spark you might be right in
>> looking someplace else like the regulator. Have you tested what the
>> alt. is actually putting out w/ a voltmeter?
>>
>> Jordan
>>
>
>
> Does the dash light for the alternator in your speedo work? Battery
> will not charge without it completing it's circuit!

>
> Yes, the dash light comes on when I start the car and then goes
out. I'm not sure I know how to test ALT output. Will a short
cause the battery not to recharge fully? I KNOW I have one, just
haven't located it yet.

bobby d