97 F-150 parasitic current drain
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97 F-150 parasitic current drain
What is the maximun parasitic current drain for a 1997 F-150?
I just replaced the original motorcraft battery today after more that 10 years service! I replaced the battery and measured the charging voltage. The charging voltage was 14.46 VDC. I decided to look at the parasitic current. I removed the negative terminal and placed an amp meter in series. The current draw measures 220 ma. From searching WEB sites, I think that this may be a little high. Anything below 75 ma (0.075) is usually acceptable. I read a post from one web site that stated the Ford stated the parasitic current drain should be less than 500 ma (0.5 A). That seems way too high.
I disconnected the glove box and engine light connectors and that didn't help. I can get 60 ma if I disconnect the 15A Interior Lamps fuse or disconnect the 5A GEM (General Electronic Module) fuse or if I pull the Battery Saver relay. The only aftermarket device I have is an alarm system which was purchased and installed by Circuit City. I disconnected the connectors to the alarm system and no change in the parasitic current drain was noticed. Where is the GEM located on the '97 F-150? Any help would be appreciated.
I just replaced the original motorcraft battery today after more that 10 years service! I replaced the battery and measured the charging voltage. The charging voltage was 14.46 VDC. I decided to look at the parasitic current. I removed the negative terminal and placed an amp meter in series. The current draw measures 220 ma. From searching WEB sites, I think that this may be a little high. Anything below 75 ma (0.075) is usually acceptable. I read a post from one web site that stated the Ford stated the parasitic current drain should be less than 500 ma (0.5 A). That seems way too high.
I disconnected the glove box and engine light connectors and that didn't help. I can get 60 ma if I disconnect the 15A Interior Lamps fuse or disconnect the 5A GEM (General Electronic Module) fuse or if I pull the Battery Saver relay. The only aftermarket device I have is an alarm system which was purchased and installed by Circuit City. I disconnected the connectors to the alarm system and no change in the parasitic current drain was noticed. Where is the GEM located on the '97 F-150? Any help would be appreciated.
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From: St Louis
Until the Battery Saver relay kicks off, I see around 200-300 mA.
After 30-45 minutes, the relay de-energizes and the quiescent draw drops to around 50-75 mA that is being drawn by the PCM's KAM, the clock, and the radio.
Your system sounds pretty normal.
Steve
After 30-45 minutes, the relay de-energizes and the quiescent draw drops to around 50-75 mA that is being drawn by the PCM's KAM, the clock, and the radio.
Your system sounds pretty normal.
Steve
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Hi Steve.
I waited for 45 minutes, "sleep mode", and the measured current draw at ~20 mA. It worked just like you said.
I looked at when I purchased my 97 F-150. I bought it in April 1996. That makes the old Motorcraft battery over 12 years old!
Thank You for you help!
I waited for 45 minutes, "sleep mode", and the measured current draw at ~20 mA. It worked just like you said.
I looked at when I purchased my 97 F-150. I bought it in April 1996. That makes the old Motorcraft battery over 12 years old!
Thank You for you help!
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