Batteries and battery conditioners.

[ALAN COCHRANE]

Hi Everyone

When I was last under the bonnet I noticed that the E's battery had expelled a small amount of it's contents onto the top plate via the two rear filler caps. In addition the spanner I use to loosen the clamps had some surface corrosion on the underside where it had been lying in beside the alternator regulator. When I picked the spanner up to have a closer look I noticed the perfect outline of it had been left on the bulhead where it had been lying. This hadn't caused any damage to the paintwork and wiped off with a cloth.
The battery is a Lincon unit and is only about three years old. It's connected to an intelligent charger throughout the winter period. The charger always shows the green ready light. I have noticed that there seems to be a build-up of crud on both battery terminals even during the summer months. I always apply plenty of grease to the posts and all the cable connections on the clamps are tight.
The car always starts after the usual churning even after a long interval so the battery appears healthy. I've also swapped the chargers over but this seems to make no difference.
The GT6 has the same, similar aged battery and charger and doesn't show any of these symptoms.

Comments please.

Cheers

Alan

[Sjmmarsh]

Alan

What is the charger - some intelligent chargers just use a constant trickle charge when the battery is fully charged. If left on for long periods this can 'boil' the electrolyte which may be what you are describing.

If it is left on continuously, you really need a conditioner - this turns itself on and of to make sure that the battery is topped up, but not overcharged.

Steve

[ALAN COCHRANE]

David

Sorry I should have said it's a battery conditioner not just a charger. I've used both for several years without incident, until now. I'm beginning to suspect the battery-possibly the plates are furring up.

Cheers

Alan

[Sjmmarsh]

Alan

In that case I agree it is probably the battery on the way out. If you take it off charge and take a reading it should'be around 13.2v dropping to 12.8v over the next hour. Anything less thsn that indicates that it is not fully charging and will eventually fail.

Batteries normally go in winter months when they are under greater starting strain so I suspect you will be ok for this season but be prepared to buy a new one at some point.

The battery on my Caterham 7 has been on its last legs for 3 years if it is any consolation. It drops to 7v momentarily when cranking but pickes up rapidly as soon as it fires up (normally on the second chug).

Steve

Steve