Tech Support - 1993 Nissan 240SX

Q I have read articles mentioning a wiring problem on the Nissan 240SX project. I believe the car is Jonny's. Anyway, I have a similar problem. If I drive my car for 45 minutes it will hold a charge for about 24 hours. I don't have a massive stereo or amps. I took the car to the dealer, bought a new battery, and had it checked by a wiring specialist. No one can find the problem. My 240 is a '93. Also, I think it's related (but no one else does), but sometimes when I turn the ignition key, even on a full charge, it does nothing. I have to turn the key two to three times before the ignition and starter engage. My question is, where or what caused your power drain? Can you give me an idea of who to see to get mine fixed? Thanks for the mag.
Bill "Wynter" Rose
Via the Internet

P.S. Keep up the great work. I have never seen better in coverage, girls, parts, girls, behind the scenes, girls, events, and girls.

A First of all, never believe a word Jonny says. He was probably leaving his dome light on all night, and then blaming it on a mysterious "wiring issue". Second, get a new ignition switch before you get left outside the club with a car that won't start, leaving your girlfriend to hitch a ride with some dude who has a reliable car! (Chicks do not see the adventure in having a car that only starts occasionally.) Anyway, checking for a voltage leak is pretty simple. First, remove the negative terminal from the battery, then, bridge the gap with a test light. (Either a commercial unit, or make one from flashlight bulb and some wire.) If you have a battery drain, it will light the bulb, and then you can get down to business. Start unplugging connectors and accessories, until the bulb goes out, and you have found your short. If you have any aftermarket or homemade wiring, that is the most likely the culprit. The faulty ignition switch is a possibility, as is a stuck or slightly shorted relay, like for the fan or starter.