I recently purchased a 1996 Cherokee and am new to all the electronics. My previous vehicle was a 1976 Chevy Van. My question is: with ignition key in off position, when I connect the negative battery post, I get a sizable spark. Is this normal? I am concerned that I will run the battery down if left connected, so I have been disconnecting it when not in use.

 

Your idea of a sizeable spark, and everyone else's idea of a sizeable spark could be worlds apart. I have always had what I consider a normal spark when connecting the battery on any vehicle. I've never had a battery draining problem that could be connected to the "spark" when connecting the battery.

Your best bet would be to leave it connected and see what happens. If the battery dies, then you have a draw and can start diagnosing from there.

 

It can be normal if you have your door open making the lights come on or if you have an under hood light. That would cause it to spark.