In the most recent MAFCA online newsletter there was an article about keeping the correct water level in the battery. The plates have to be covered to allow the chemical action that creates the electricity to function at the proper rate.
They suggested using a syringe (100 to 150cc) with a 6-8 inch vacuum hose to fill the battery instead of trying to pour the water in. Another tool that can used with less fuss is a turkey baster or a similar tool that has a hole at the correct level, just to the inner ring. The baster can be modified to do the same. The idea is that excess water can be removed by drawing back into the tool.
Distilled water is recommended as it is chemically pure. Impurities can reduce or destroy the chemical action. This will reduce the battery output and shorten battery life. There many other uses for distilled water but that is not the point of this article.
Good battery care is important to insure that the power is there when needed to start the Model A. Keeping the battery at full charge during winter months is important, especially if the A is in cold storage. A fully charged battery is less likely to freeze. A frozen battery is a dead battery!
Canadian Tire and other automotive part outlets sell dual range battery chargers that work on both 6 and 12 volt systems. Some even have a "START" setting that allows for the heavier draw by the starter.
With the weather we have been having it may be a good time to make sure your battery is ready for the driving season ahead.
Sid Gough - Technical Editor
