Ditch Witch J20 - Battery Keeps Running Down - Wisconsin TJD Engine

[Fred in BC]

Turn every thing on the ditch witch off.

Be sure the battery is fully charged. Check acid level. Fill if needed.

Loosen the hot wire on the battery.

Rub the loose hot wire gently on the hot terminal, to see if it sparks. This is best done in a dark place, or at night.

If you get a spark, you know there is a short/battery drain somewhere.
It can be a tiny spark. Look closely, in a dark place. If you're outside, in daylight, drop a tarp or heavy cloth over your head, and the battery
(beware of smartass kids with cell phones. You don't want this to be on youtube)

(If no spark, check battery voltage. Let the battery sit, disconnected, for 24 hours. Check voltage again. Should be the same as 24 hours ago. If voltage drops, suspect the battery.)

Disconnect the alternator wire, check for spark again. If no spark, look for obvious wire faults, worn insulation etc. if none, reconnect, check that it still sparks, alternator and/or regulator to the shop.

Keep disconnecting wires, until there is no spark when you rub the hot wire to its terminal.

Please report results?