4 replies to this topic

[grahama]

Hi all,

All going well since mot apart from leaking batteries !! Brand new 030 Lion batteries, all 3 have leaked. I have checked the alternator charging voltage and when revved it it going to 18 volts plus.

Should an alternator charge to this voltage and could it be causing the batteries to leak??

The alternator is the original from my ‘83 1L Mayfair


Tia

Graham

[grck1]

I would say your alternator is faulty, at 18v your essentially boiling the battery fluid.
14 - 14.5v is usually max charge value and that's at a specific rpm ie 1500rpm.

[grahama]

Ok I’ll change the alternator but is the battery now ruined too or will it be on when being charged properly??

Will it stop leaking??

[unburntfuelinthemorning]

Agreed, 18 volts is way too high.  Regarding the battery, try it, it may be ok, it may not be.

[whistler]

Where's the leak on the battery? I assume you mean 3 cells are leaking. If leak is through case then chuck the battery and buy new. the acid mix will eat your mini.