Well, first thing I found out when I went to check Harlem out after her return is that her battery was totally dead. Turns out it is three years old, so it was time for it to die anyway, despite her long “hibernation”.
When I went to put the new battery in, I noticed that it came with a tiny instruction sheet on it re: the use of vent tube, if applicable. The instructions mentioned that the positive terminal cover piece came with a tiny break-away plastic piece that can be used to plug the vent hole on the battery. After that, the instructions make no sense and seem to be self-contradictory (printed in China, maybe?). On the one hand, it indicates that the vent hose from the car is to be inserted into the vent port on the end of the battery, which makes sense. But then, for “safety purposes”, it seems to say use the plug to plug the vent hole in the battery. So which is it? In reality, if there is a plastic fitting that is supposed to be on the end of my vent hose to attach it to a vent port, it is missing. So, it cannot be attached to the vent hole on the battery. I therefore, thinking the “safety” is the possibility that hydrogen gas might escape into the boot from the battery, used the plug to plug the battery vent hole.
Did I do right? I just hope gas doesn’t build up pressure inside the battery and blow something up b/c it can’t escape.
Agree with Andy. The battery must be vented to the outside of the car. Otherwise, vented gas will corrode and attack metal in the trunk!!! Even with the vent a periodic check, especially under the battery, is warranted. The gas is tin worm fertilizer .
Ut oh, I’ll unplug it then until I can find a replacement for the angled piece you mention that apparently the PO lost. Hopefully local auto stores have something that will work as well …
Well, technically, this is the set-up for the X-308s. But I see the vent tube there, too, although it’s not IDed. (btw, I never knew we were supposed to save the positive post cover off the battery to snap back over the post once the battery is installed.
I couldn’t find one on there specifically for face-lift XJSes. However, one of our local chain auto parts stores has a generic one for sale, that is 8 mm. (about 1/4") in size (i.e. fits a vent hose that diameter). If I knew for sure that was the size of the Jag hose I’d go ahead and get it. Anyone know?
In reality, if there is a plastic fitting that is supposed to be on the end of my vent hose to attach it to a vent port, it is missing. So, it cannot be attached to the vent hole on the battery. I therefore, thinking the “safety” is the possibility that hydrogen gas might escape into the boot from the battery, used the plug to plug the battery vent hole.
However, one of our local chain auto parts stores has a generic one for sale, that is 8 mm. (about 1/4") in size (i.e. fits a vent hose that diameter). If I knew for sure that was the size of the Jag hose I’d go ahead and get it. Anyone know?