GMC Repair: battery is being drained, gmc safari, voltage gauge

Question
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Followup To
Question -
I have a 93 GMC Safari XT Van with a 4.3 engine. I have replaced the starter, the altenator, the positive cable and battery. Now my voltage gauge shows no volts and the battery is drained. The drive belt is tight and I can find no fuses for the altenator. Have any ideas?  Thanks, Marc
Answer -
Charge the battery and have it tested at any larger auto parts store FIRST. Then after you install the battery or a NEW battery you should only have a maximum amperage draw of 1/2 amp when the vehicle sits over night with everything OFF.  The van will start after battery is charged and the headlights will work, but then the battery becomes low on voltage output.


Will the vehicle run if you install another battery ?. Do you have headlights ?. or ANYTHING ?.


let me know.


autohelp

Answer
You have one of two problems.

Either the alternator is not functioning properly and not charging the battery OR you have something within the electrical system that is draining the battery.

!. Take the alternator OFF the vehicle and take it in where you bought it and have it tested.

2. Install an AMPERAGE GAGE between the NEGATIVE battery post and the battery cable and see if the meter is indicating more than a 1/2 amp of battery draw with everything turned OFF in the vehicle.

Anything over 1/2 amp draw from the battery is WHY your battery is going dead.


autohelp