Even though there's a drain hose attached, I'm afraid to charge my battery without removing it from the car. I've seem them overflow way more than that little hose could handle.

But the bracket holding the battery in place has two bolts at the bottom which are very difficult to reach due to the spare tire. What sort of tool, and of what size, should I use to reach them?

Silly question, I know; I'm not very handy. I own basically no tools.

 

If the spare tire is in the way, couldn't you remove the spare tire?

Charging at high rates is what causes excessive boiling.

Charging at low rate should not be a problem and is better for the battery anyways.

 

Hi Lee,

Removing the battery is easy without removing the spare, but you need a socket extension approx. 8 inches long or more. But like plums, I don't think you need to remove your battery. I've charged ours more than once using the "deep charge" or "automatic - maintenance free" settings on our charger and have had zero problems.

Now, the real question: Why do you feel your battery needs to be charged???

Cheers,

Don

 

Lee,


I've charged my battery using the "trickle or maintenance" selection and never had an issue with boil over. How old is your current battery? It may make more sense to replace it and avoid the hassle since you are likely only going to extend the life a little while anyway.

 

Well you guys were right, my charger charged only briefly before throwing an error code that the battery could not be "desulfated" and needed replacing.