electrical help (sort of general, not specifically SE-R)

[David Pertuz]

would someone who has greater confidence and experience than I do mind
giving me some tips on general good strategy for tracking down mysterious
electrical drains? I have a friend with a Vanagon that has an unknown
electrical drain who has asked for my help. My first thought is the
alternator, but in case it is not that I am faced with chasing a leak
somewhere. I know electrical diagnostics is not rocket science, but I am a
little intimidated :)

thanks,
david