Battery Isolator = Flat Battery

[Yeedogga]

Hi guys,

I wired up a battery isolator using the method set out in this thread: http://www.sau.com.au/forums/topic/324683-wiring-up-a-cams-approved-batt-isolator/

Basically I have the ALT+ and Starter + going direct to the +ve side of the battery.

I have everything else run to the +ve side of battery but switched isolated via a 'normally open' solenoid. The solenoid is negative switched using an in-dash isolator swtich.

Problem i am having is that If i leave the solenoid on, it wil drain the battery overnight. (it needs 12v to keep closed)

I want to keep the solenoid on so that i can still use the alarm & central locking.

At 5pm yesterday it had a full charge, this morning at 7 it was down to 6volts.

I didnt think that the solenoid would draw that much power?! Have i done something wrong or is it just how it's gonna be?

Thanks!!!

Chris

[Duncan]

It could well just be the solenoid, she's a big one. you need to measure the current draw with everything off (ie just the effort to hold the solenoid open)

[r31slpr]

It could well just be the solenoid, she's a big one. you need to measure the current draw with everything off (ie just the effort to hold the solenoid open)

Do that.

Pointing out the obvious here, you might have to change to a mechanical switch or an nc solenoid

[jiffo]

Solenoid will definitely drain a car battery in short time, I imagine it would be getting rather hot as well.

If you need alarm etc then they'll have to be wired from the battery side of the solenoid, so you can kill that solenoid when the car's not running.

[Yeedogga]

Good idea, Ill check the current load tonight.

Does anyone see a problem running a solenoid like this in this application? IE: It's not likely to burn out in a hurry and leave me up shit creek at turn 1 at Wakefield!