Topping up wet batteries when there is no 'line of sight'; suggestions pse

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RIBW

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Hi all,

Has anyone solved the problem of how to top up batteries with water when it is not possible to look down the hole? Even access to remove the plugs is difficult!
The current (undesirable) options are:-
1. Remove the saloon table and decking.
2. Blow down a straw and listen for bubbling.

TIA
Bob
 
fisherman said:
Mirror, or take a pic with your phone.
Click to expand...
Thanks!
I've tried the mirror but getting enough light and the mirror to line up at the distance was very awkward.

The phone may just work if I can coordinate getting the lens to line up and simultaneously touch the screen at half arm length.
Cheers
Bob
 
In olden days, people used to have a Lucas Battery Filler bottle, which automatically stopped the flow of distilled water when the correct level was reached. You can still buy these (old and used) on eBay. Or you can get a modern reproduction - http://www.moss-europe.co.uk/battery-filler-bottle-lu54029521.html

There are similar, valve-controlled top-up bottles available, for instance these...

http://www.rapidonline.com/Tools-Equipment/Sealey-JBF1-Battery-Fluid-Filler-2ltr-89-9042
http://uk.rs-online.com/web/p/water-fillers/1968222/
 
Last edited:
use a cheap flexible led inspection device from ebay to see the level. You'll find lots more uses for it afterwards, too. :)
 
pvb said:
In olden days, people used to have a Lucas Battery Filler bottle, which automatically stopped the flow of distilled water when the correct level was reached. You can still buy these (old and used) on eBay. Or you can get a modern reproduction - http://www.moss-europe.co.uk/battery-filler-bottle-lu54029521.html

There are similar, valve-controlled top-up bottles available, for instance these...

http://www.rapidonline.com/Tools-Equipment/Sealey-JBF1-Battery-Fluid-Filler-2ltr-89-9042
http://uk.rs-online.com/web/p/water-fillers/1968222/
Click to expand...

Thanks - the RS one may fit the space. definitely worth a go!
Cheers
Bob
 
sarabande said:
use a cheap flexible led inspection device from ebay to see the level. You'll find lots more uses for it afterwards, too. :)
Click to expand...

Thanks,
I have an expensive inspection device which I am wary of using for fear of damaging - there is a good chance that the awkward access will mean contact with the acid.
I'll look to see if there is a cheap version that is 'sacrificial'.
Cheers
Bob
 
I use a wooden tongue depressor/epoxy mixing stick as a dip stick. Cut the rounded end off square for best results. Lasts a few months before rotting away.
 
I was going to suggest a battery top-up bottle, such as PVB suggests. However, he beat me to it.
You cvan easily make your own: If you have a suitable bottle, (plastic ketchup bottle from the Poundshop), with a nozzle to which you can attach a clear plastic tube, all you have to do is cut a couple of vertical slots in the end, equal in height to the intended level of the electrolyte above the plates. When you put this into the cell and invert the bottle, the distilled water will flow until the slots are covered and no further air can enter, allowing the electrolyte to attain its correct level.
 
Thanks to everyone!

I shall be going for the next maintenance visit armed with several of your suggestions to check out which works best.

And yes, Vic and Macd, I think I will go to sealed once these inhereted Banners expire.

Cheers
Bob
 
RIBW said:
Hi all,

Has anyone solved the problem of how to top up batteries with water when it is not possible to look down the hole? Even access to remove the plugs is difficult!
The current (undesirable) options are:-
1. Remove the saloon table and decking.
2. Blow down a straw and listen for bubbling.

TIA
Bob
Click to expand...

I know you have had several good tips already but two more......

1. use two smartphones or a smartphone and tablet with a "remote camera" free app on both of them. You then use one as the camera phone, ideally one with an led flashlight, to hold over the battery filler holes and the other phone/tablet is used as the viewing screen/monitor. This is a useful setup for peering into any inaccesible space.

2. A length of clear plastic drinking straw dipped into the electrolyte until it rests on the plates then put a finger over the end of the straw and lift it out to see the height of electrolyte over the plates.

Www.solocoastalsailing.co.uk
 
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