Dead electrics

[a35mad]

Hi Peeps, can anyone make a suggestion to help me out.
Turbo diesel car, been running fine until today.
Wifey starts it as normal this a.m, drives the 2 miles to work, parks it. 8 hours later, battery flatter than proverbial pancake! No lights or electrics left on.
Towed it home, 8 amp charger on for 3 hours so far, needle still on max 12 amp charge.
Any ideas?
My thoughts were
a) battery - but has been fine and it is mid summer
b) dead short in live circuit - why? and where would I start
c) Alternator - but no sign of no charge lamp coming on (yes bulb still works)
d) Altrntr belt - Still in one piece, adjusted in last 2k mls, no no charge light
H E L P ! !

[E_T_V]

Whilst the battery is on charge and the engine is cold, check to see if the alternator is warm. If it is then the diodes inside the alternator are dead and they allow the battery to discharge through it even when the igntion is switched off.

[SimonR]

Have you checked to make sure that the boot light is not staying on? That's a Maestro favorite!

[tony]

are you sure the wifey did not leave the lights on?

[a35mad]

Thanx for the advice;
Dan, I went to it this morning and it started first time after being off charge for 8 hours, so I don't think the alternator was at fault - but time will tell.
Simon, I admit that I am in the habit of lowering the boot lid, without catching it on the latch when I am dodging to and fro with repairs or cleaning, and I now know that this leaves the boot light on, so that has to be a strong contender. I will monitor it over the coming days.
Tony, Wifey wants to "discuss" your hypothesis with you ......
Thanx again, guys. Dean.