Battery disconnect ..frequency of operation

[Randy S.]

The previous posts re midyear disconnects prompts me to ask the question is everyone using this device each time they park the carin the garage? I am aware that my 66 has some wiring that is unfused and risk of fire is present but I also am hassled by always resetting the clock on start up. I have had to pull the clock and have the reset stem repaired probably due to the numerous clock resets.

Hotwiring the clock seems to defeat the purpose of the disconnect. Is there a better way??

[Geoff C.]

Screw the time Time is relative

Most of my Corvette clock are correct twice a day.

[Louis T.]

Re: Battery disconnect ..frequency of operation

You could try wiring the clock directly to the battery, with an in-line 1-2 Amp fuse (the lowest that will work) for protection. This way, you can still disconnect the rest of the car with your battery disconnect. A similar set-up could be used for modern digital radios so as not to lose their programmed stations, as well.

[Donald M.]

Re: Battery disconnect ..frequency of operation

Randy, I highly reccommend using your disconnect whenever your car is parked and unattended, especially in a garage that is attached to your house. The 35-45+ year old electrical system on the typical older vette is always susceptible to a short. As far as resetting the clock every time you drive the car, you can continue to do it, but I just leave it alone and only reset it for shows or flight judging. You've seen what problems resetting each and every time can cause.I'm no electrical expert, but I can't see any way to just run the clock independent of the car's electrical system.

[Terry M.]

[Jack W.]

Re: Battery disconnect ..frequency of operation

Answering the question of do I use my battery disconnect (green knob here) every time I park the car in the garage - if it's done being driven that day, absolutely. Matter of fact, even when I know I will be driving it again that day, I diconnect it out of habit. For all the reasons stated - slow drain on my battery not appreciated, spooky elec short fires eliminited, clock works fine while I am driving it, what the clock actually has to say about the time is of little interest to me.

I also use it and take the knob with me while leaving the car parked unattended in anything less than Main street with tons of people around.

[Chris L.]

Re: Battery disconnect ..frequency of operation

since we are on the subject of disconnect switches does anyone have a suggestion for C-5 (2004)? Gets driven very seldom. Thanks

[Donald M.]

Re: Battery disconnect ..frequency of operation

The situation gets more complicated with a computer car. You want to shut off most of the power but still want to keep power to the sub-systems like radio stations. I know there is a gizmo with a 9v battery to retain radio station settings with battery disconnected. It's available thru Mid America Motorworks. You may also want to keep the computer(s) powered up. I'm sure others on the Board might have more suggestions. CAUTION: NEVER work under the dash or steering column (or doors or seats, for that matter)unless you're qualified. Power to the air bags is generally always "on" even with battery disconnected.
Don

[Randy S.]

Re: Battery disconnect ..frequency of operation

Thanks to all for your input

Sounds like I am on the same page as others as disconnecting frequently. I'll just forget about the clock.

Randy

[Patrick H.]

Re: Battery disconnect ..frequency of operation

I throw the Battery Minder on Dad's 2002 as the battery will run down if he doesn't drive it in 2-3 weeks. That's the simplest solution for the summer. For the winter, I just disconnect the negative from the battery.

On the 92, I use the Battery Minder if it's been 6-8 weeks else that too will run down the battery. In fact, that one's on the Battery Minder right now.

My 71 and 72 have the blade type disconnect switches, and I just use them whenever the car is stopped. Dad's 72 has the infamous green knob, and I always disconnect that one, too.

Patrick