MG Car Repair: mgb batteries, 6 volt batteries, test meter

Question
sir,
i have just (or so i thought),changed my 2 6 volt batteries for 1 12 volt battery ,but to my surprise i did not have any power to the ignition,on further inspection i found out that the previous owner had fitted a cut off switch, how would i wire this in so that i would have power to the ignition,this item worked very well before i startes working on the batteries. apart from the batteries going flat after only leaving the car for a week without running her.bearing in mind that i am not very good with electrics,i am more than adequate with a spanner or so i am told?? any help on this matter would be gratefully recieved as we are hopeful of going to mg live at silverstone in three weeks time,many thanks colin.

Answer
Hi Colin.  It depends where the cutout switch was wired.  For now, I would wire the car without a cutout.  My guess is that you have drilled a hole for the new 12 volt earth wire, but you have not scraped any paint away underneath the head of the bolt.  The paint will be acting as insulation and preventing any current from passing from the battery to earth.

The batteries should not go flat in 2 weeks.  There was definitely something wrong.  It needs checking with an electrical test meter.  

If you do go to MG Live at Silverstone, pop in to the V8 marquee on Saturday.  My new V8 will be on display, and if you can find me I would be happy to look at your car.  I normally carry a test meter in my car.