Sprinter 311 Battery flat problem

[djo5555]

Hi Guys New member here. I am a courier and have a 53 LWB Sprinter 311. Van would not start after unloading on Friday night. Battery flat. Tried to jump start but no joy. Got battery checked today and was declared dead so I bought new one. Fitted & van started 1st time. Problem solved or so I thought. Drove around a bit today, parked up for about an hour. Went to re-start, battery flat again!!
I have no alarms fitted and no mobile phone kits etc. Has anybody got any idea's as to where I should look before it put it into merc dealer. Dealer is last resort because last visit cost me £1,800!! Help!!

 

[colechelle]

sounds like the alternator isnt charging, find some body with a muti-meter, looking for 13.50 volt at battery terminals.

 

[steve hw]

Common fault is the glow plug control unit sticks, will kill a battery in minutes. to confirm , disconnect large square plug from control unit. (located behind n/s/f headlamp. If your battery last . . . sorted. this can not be left as difficulty starting when cold will be found.