starting problems......still

[Manty]

Have narrowed it down to Alternator . My battery is held in place by a metal strap across the top of it. At one end of this strap, not the other, is oxidation as if a current has been flowing through it!!!!! Just like a battery terminal if you do not keep it clean and smeared with jelly. have put a meter on the strap and it is at earth. Have cleaned up strap, it had eaten into the metal, but wonder if I need a heavy plastic replacement? Anybody had similar?

 

[extreme-4x4]

would that not suggest your earthing out through your battery strap then ?

my battery is held in with a small ratchet strap like you buy from the market or wilko's

id re check your wires your obviously worn through and earthing out a live draining your battery

 

[extreme-4x4]

dumb question but best ask ... have you actually taken the battery out to check wires around it for wear

 

[Manty]

In answer to first point. I would expect the strap to be at earth as its connected at the retaning bolts to the body so it would show earth. The second popint I have had the battery out and checked wires around it and cleaned terminals. Thanks for your responses guys..appreciated. At the moment I have the strap off ( not using vehicle!) and will check things later.

 

[extreme-4x4]

if a live wire is rubbing against your stran that will cause all your problems

 

[rustic]

If the metal strap is over the centre of the battery and if there is any moisture or acid around the battery top then the battery acid will be at appox 6 Volts (1/2 battery voltage) and this will corrode the metal if it is earthed.
You may need to insulate the battery clamp. Place some plastic or rubber sheet under the clamp but make sure it doesn't cover the vent holes.
Best regards, Rustic

 

[Manty]

tyanks Rustic..will give it a try