" Put an amp meter around the neg. lead at the battery, shows 1 amp drain, when key off."

THERE is your issue. Even the early 300's only drew about 50ma with the key out and that was from the clock running. Key out, amp meter connected, Id start popping fuses until the 1 amp draw goes away. What ever circuit that is .. is your problem area.

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1985 300D 198K sold
1982 300D 202K
1989 300E 125K
1992 940T

"If you dont have time to do it safely, you dont have time to do it"

"The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not."