Battery light came on ... within 24 hrs, vehicle revs started surging (similar sound to whoosh @ start up) ...HDC fault in mess.ctr. ...upon testing, battery was dead and alternator was cycling trying to charge and down and trying again etc...
After installing a new battery, a shorting smell was detected, and the battery was drained fully!!
Any help would be appreciated

 

Check carefully the wiring to the starter, I believe bbyer documented a rub short from that cable some time ago. Otherwise it's going to be the hunt and peck method which may take some time. Remember, most systems have no power when the vehicle is off, so it's likely fairly close between the battery / alternator and fuse boxes.

 

My 2009 LR3 electrical just died completely. Had it towed to a mechanic and he believes it is a major short circuit. He connected a small booster battery and the cables became very hot and the booster refused to provide charge. Any suggestions on how to locate the short?

 

Alternator is dead, they go open circuit and drain the battery and if not fixed can destroy electrical systems.