Conference vmsnet::car$note:carbuffs

I tried cranking up the '24 over the weekend and could
not get any spark.  Last year the battery used to provide
enough power to use the electric starter, but a few months
ago it would only slowly turn the engine over 2-3 times
and then die.  This is no big deal with a hand crank
so I just lived with it.

But, when cranking it by hand, it would always kick right
over.  When it didn't fire at all I checked the battery.
The fluid level was a little low, but not below the tops
of the plates.  I topped up all 3 sections (6v, positive
ground) and plugged the charger in.  (The charger was set
to 6v as well)  The needle went to 15 amps and sat there.

I noticed some bubbles in the two outermost sections, but
none in the center section.  Has this battery developed
a short?

Thanks
Dave

    Sure sounds like it.
    
    You need to use a hygrometer to test the density of the fluid in each
    of the cells.  This will tell you for certain if one section isn't
    charging.  You don't see these around much anymore now that most
    batteries are sealed.
    

    I meant to say hydrometer (density meter), not hygrometer (humidity
    meter) in my last message.

    
    	If you were closer, Dave, I'd let you borrow ours.
    

Thanks for the offer Shawn, but it looks like I'll make a trip
to Sears for a new batt'ry this weekend.

Dave

The battery in my Duster died after 3.7 years ... parked it one night, and the next day it 
wouldn't turn over.

Just put the new one in today.  Hopefully it starts tomorrow.  8^)