Bite the bullet and buy the parts
drummer97223 said:
Is there a way to check it without getting into it? I am tired of buying parts and not getting results. Thanks
I'm not an expert but this problem is so common and its always either the ignition switch or key cylinder. Not sure why you are resisting changing it for good measure. The boths collectively shouldn't be more than $50. If that is too much, invest in a battery shut off switch. You can get them at RV stores. That way you turn the knob on or off as you exit or enter the car. It will get old fast and make you want to find the money for the parts.
Here's some advice from other's that usually advise others:
fordtechguru:
"sounds frustrating, try this... batteries that die like you've said usually are shorted or excessive key off drain. Alternators can charge at spec. voltage but still drain or emit a/c voltage (battery killer). Grab a dvom and check for a drain. First clue it's bad is if you remove the positive cable (key off) and big blue spark. But start by trying to remove the charge lead off the back of the alternator, if the draw stops, your in luck. P.S., please don't tell me you have a 1,000 watt amp in the trunk after all this.....lol"
Old School:
Common draws of current in Mark VIIs:
BAD KEY CYLINDER IGNITION SWITCH (not ingition switch)
*interior lights
*glove box light
*under seat lights
*under dash lights
*vanity mirrors
*rear seat cortesy lights (switches down = off)
non functioning accesories
*windshield wiper motor burned out/shorted
*trunk pull down motor burned out/shorted
*windshield washer motor motor burned out/shorted
*door lock solenoids
*window motors burned out/shorted
*seat motors burned out/shorted
*exterior lights and their switches
*brake boost motor (not sure if you have this in 1986)
*AIR RIDE COMPRESSOR RUNNING (shut off the switch in the trunk, driver's side wall)
*aftermarket radios (spliced wires makes all of this moot)
*aftermarket alarm systems (spliced wires makes all of this moot)
*aftermarket HID fog lights (you get the picture)
*coins stuck in one of the three cigarette lighters (thanks NYC LSC)