The Ford Barn

Bob C · 04-18-2014, 08:57 PM

The ignition switch is the ground for the ignition system so when you put
the ammeter between the switch and ground you are completing the circuit.

Tom Wesenberg · 04-18-2014, 10:53 PM

Remove the instrument panel from the gas tank and see if you still have the drain. I've seen repro ignition switches that have one or both terminals touch the gas tank when mounted. My repro switch also did this until I bent the terminal to the side.

If you have an original popout switch then I've seen the wire inside the armored cable touch ground due to frayed insulation. But this shouldn't be what's killing the battery because the circuit is open when you push the popout IN to turn off the ignition.

Which switch do you have?

04-18-2014, 08:57 PM	#21
Bob C Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: So Cal Posts: 8,754	Re: Where's the Short? Help Needed! The ignition switch is the ground for the ignition system so when you put the ammeter between the switch and ground you are completing the circuit.

04-18-2014, 10:53 PM	#22
Tom Wesenberg Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Mpls, MN Posts: 27,582	Re: Where's the Short? Help Needed! Remove the instrument panel from the gas tank and see if you still have the drain. I've seen repro ignition switches that have one or both terminals touch the gas tank when mounted. My repro switch also did this until I bent the terminal to the side. If you have an original popout switch then I've seen the wire inside the armored cable touch ground due to frayed insulation. But this shouldn't be what's killing the battery because the circuit is open when you push the popout IN to turn off the ignition. Which switch do you have?