S40: Battery Voltage / Alternator

[stu_cole]

Hi Forum

I have an S40, 2002, 2Ltr Petrol, Manual

I'm after some advice:

A couple of days ago I had a flickering battery light when revving at 2,000 - 2,300 rpm

Within 2 days the battery was flat

The battery has been recharged and tested - came back as being OK

A brand new alternator was fitted last year and was also tested and this was OK as well (14.17V no load - 14.05v loaded (rear heated windscreen + Lights)

Starting volts were also tested OK at 10.58v

The battery is well earthed and the main earthing strap on the alternator is tight and clean.

There is a little spade clip on the side of the alternator and I have renewed this connection as it has perished.

1. Could someone advise what function this small spade clip makes to the charging circuit?

2. If everything is connected properly, earthed properly, functioning properly what else can I check to prevent the battery draining?

Any guidance or advice would be greatly appreciated

Regards

Stuart Cole

[sebaveh]

Originally Posted by stu_cole

2. If everything is connected properly, earthed properly, functioning properly what else can I check to prevent the battery draining?

Check for hidden active loads. Lights in trunk, glove compartment, alarm fault...
Easiest thing is, if you own ammeter (multimeter actually). Disconnect battery and put it between battery and cable terminal. When ignition is OFF of course. Current should be around 50 mA or lower, at least 5 - 10 minutes after, so that ECU goes to full sleep mode.

[rublehousen]

heres a how too. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFCT-YZbU5o