I have a 99 Ranger XLT whose battery dies frequently when not using. It doesn't rest for extended periods of time, key out, no lights on, all doors shut. Battery was replaced recently.

I have done some basic debugging: Inserted multimeter in series at negative terminal. Showed 12V draw when off. Tried pulling fuses one at a time and none of them reduced that voltage.

What should I try next to figure out the culprit?

 

Hello,
I have the same problem on my 97 Ranger XLT. If you are using your meter in the DC voltage setting when putting in series with your ground you will see 12v. (That's battery voltage you are seeing) you will get the same thing doing it with the pos cable. What you need to do is is check for current drain. Put your meter in series with the pos cable and set it to amperage. Start pulling fuses and relays to see it the current drops therefore identifying the problem circuit. Good luck as I have yet to find mine a it is intermittent.