[Everett#2390]

Could this wire be the infamous 'Key Buzzer' circuitry?
Maybe this schematic will help

 

[BPOS]

Try disconnecting the key-minder wire at the horn relay - I think it's pink/black. If the test light stays off at least you're narrowing it down.

 

[Dusty Diamond]

I disconnected the pink/black wire at the horn relay and the test light stays on.

SO, after taking a bit of a break on this project, I hooked up the test light again, and put the key in the ignition. I noticed that as I turned the key, the test light flickered. I turned it a couple times from off to ACC back and forth to OFF.. and then it went out!

But, when I insert the key and turn it again and then back to OFF, it stays on... So, I'm guessing at this point that the problem is with the actual key tumbler itself and not the ignition switch (switch is brand new). I'm guessing that the little plastic piece that comes out of the end of the tumbler isn't disengaging when turned to the off position and the key removed.

Any arguments against this being the culprit before I go and buy a new lock tumbler?

 

[Dusty Diamond]

Ok, just to put a pin in this one. I replaced the lock tumbler as a last-ditch effort. and BANG, the test light went out when I removed the key.

My parasitic drain is gone... but

Basically the key has three stages 123 (insert/remove key at position 2)

It's super wierd. I put the key in the ignition at position 2, turn it to the right one click (3) and it starts. Turn the key back to the left (2), and it kills the motor and I can pull the key out with no drain(test light out). If I turn the key back to the left one more click further (1), the test light comes back on and the test light is back on. From here, if I turn the key back right one click(2) and remove the key, the drain persists. If I turn the motor back over(3) and only turn the key one click back left (2), the test light goes out. SO, as of now, I basically have to avoid ever turning the key to the left two clicks(1) or the drain returns. This seems super hacky, but I can now park the car without losing charge so I'm going to turn this thing over to a mechanic next week with a small to do list.

Consider me relieved, but still super confused.

 

[wwallman]

I learned this preventative maintenance from my Dad 50 years ago. Replace the voltage regulator the same time you replace the (then) generator. 50 years later it is still burned in my grey matter.