Re: [VAC] battery hazard

[Jim Dunmyer <jdunmyer@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Bill,
 Although it's POSSIBLE that your battery might explode in an A/S, it's
unlikely. The hydrogen gas is given off during charging, once it's
charged completely. Only a little bit is given off before a full-charge
condition, and a spark must be present to ignite it, it won't explode
all by itself.

My battery is in the rear compartment and originally had a cover with a
vent tube to the outside. Said tube is gone.

It is very impressive if a battery does explode, a friend had his blow
up in his face when using jumper cables. That's why you make 3 of the 4
connections to the batteries, and the 4th to the engine block, well away
from the battery.

If your UniVolt is defective and overcharging the battery, the danger is
much greater. My original was so bad that you could HEAR the thing
cooking. (!)

Although AGM and gel-cell batteries are quite popular and do have their
advantages, the most cost-effective battery for most RV use is still a
good ol' lead-acid job. They should last 4 or 5 years if taken care of
and cost about $70.00 to replace.

                                    <<Jim>>