grande@cbnewsd.att.com (brad.l.grande) (01/30/91)
Greetings, I just picked up a couple of Gates Cyclon 12Volt 2.5AmpHour gel-cell batteries at a ham fest. When I got them home, I found that they do not hold a charge, not even remotely. One will hold approx. 5.9V, the other approx. 4.2V. These batteries are arranged in 2 packages of 3 cells each. Each of the 3 cell groups has an opening in the top of the center cell with a rubber cap. I am interesed in using these batteries for a few different projects and would like to revitalize them, if possible. Thats the question, how can I revitalize these cells? Is adding a little water the way, or maybe some sulfuric acid? I am not a chemist and do not know what is in these cells and I do not want to do something dangerous. Some additional info: The batteries appear new (i.e. no scratches were present on the tinned spade lugs suggesting nothing had been connected to them). I am charging with a homebrew constant voltage charger I use for another gel- cell I have, and I tried an automobile battery charger, same results with both arrangements. Please reply directly, or at least to rec.bicycles as I will not have time to browse all three newsgroups. 73's and THANKS! Brad Grande WB0OYX Another bike riding beer brewing kite flying amateur radio operator who still likes CD's! AT&T Bell Labs Naperville Illinausea att!iwtil!grande (708)-979-7853