1) Cut out key. 2) Ignition questions.

[Dover Nige]

Hi all,

I leave my truck unused for extended periods on occasion and the battery runs down due to the clock etc. I'm thinking of installing a battery cut out key under the seat as the battery is under the passenger floor and is awkward to get to and even more awkward to disconnect. Can I install the cut out key in the earth cable from the battery? I've had a think about it and it seems fine to me as all it will do is break the circuit, just need confirmation. It won't be for any motorsport activities, just stopping my battery draining.

Secondly, if an engine runs a bit hotter than usual and "runs on" when it's switched off, is it correct that the ignition may be too far advanced? Can using unleaded petrol in a car designed for leaded cause this?

Cheers.

[tr7v8]

Yup cut out can go in either lead, make sure the connections are properly done otherwise you'll get starting problems.

Running on can be lean mixture, over advanced timing, too hot coolant...