Leaking Reproduction Battery

[Patrick H.]

Hi All,

Has anyone ever seen an otherwise well functioning repro battery (R-79 side post) start to leak? I had to remove the battery from my 72 in order to replace the negative battery cable, and found that the battery is slowly weeping on the post side of the battery at the junction of the top piece and the body of the battery. It has always lived in a climate controlled environmtent, and sure didn't freeze. I also checked the electrolyte level, and it is not overfilled.

Any thoughts? Thankfully all that seems to have been hurt is the paint that was removed from the hold down bracket. But I doubt that I'll lose the Bowtie because of it.

Patrick

[Clem Z.]

Re: Leaking Reproduction Battery

the genuine GM side post batteries leaked at the side post terminals,ate up the C-5 corvette computers that are under the battery, so i guess a repo should also leak.

[Patrick H.]

Re: Leaking Reproduction Battery

Hmmm. Forgot about those.

Since GM went to the newer gel mat battery in 2002, I suppose I should too.
Actually, Restoration Battery should now have out a new gel mat side post repro battery, but I'm not sure it's worth $200. An Optima or similar for $70 less looks more attractive especially since its judging days are likely over.

Patrick

[Clem Z.]

gm went back to top terminal batterys

on the corvettes a couple of years ago. my orignal 88 silverado delkco battery lasted 11 years and the replacement delco i got started leaking in less than 3 years. i think they made the cases to thin around the terminals and if you tighten the bolts too tight you distorted the case seal

[Dave S.]

Re: Leaking Reproduction Battery

Patrick,
I had one of many R89 reproduction batteries I have bought from Restoration Battery leak like yours. Between short life and the leaking problem I've had bad luck w/ them, however they give so many judging points it is hard not to install one on a judged car. I have one left and I wonder how long it will last on the battery Tender.

[Patrick H.]

Re: Leaking Reproduction Battery

Dave,

I guess (?) I'm glad to know that I'm not the only one with this leaking problem. I've e-mailed them a question about it, but also about the timeline on obtaining one of their new gel mat batteries. If they don't respond, I'll likely call.

Patrick

[Dave S.]

Re: Leaking Reproduction Battery

Patrick,
I know Tom was concerned with this short life problem but he was stuck as there was only one supplier. Sounds like he has a possible solution with the new type battery. The old one judged perfectly so we can only hope the new one judges as well. I'd be interested how you make out.