Update (and more questions).

Got the ammeter working properly now.

When connecting it in series between the -ve battery lead and the -ve battery post, I read ~12mA DC current. That current remains CONSTANT regardless of which fuse I pull out. I pulled all the fuses, in turn, in the box next to the battery (under the rear seat) and in the box under the hood.

What am I missing here? What circuit exists in this car that isn't protected by a fuse? I may be grasping at straws, but it is possible that some wire may have bad insulation and is making contact to ground? I would expect that this would lead to a more "violent" short. (I would also have expected this to be a more frequently discussed topic on the boards if it were common). Any suggestions on where to start looking next?

Thanks in advance

/alex

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1997 E420