What's that smell?

[John Orr]

For the past few days, I have been noticing a foul odor emanating from my rig. The first time, I attributed it to a leaking septic system or possibly the tide being out.

Yesterday, I noticed the odor again, in a neighborhood away from the water and with city sewer, and realized that it was coming from my rig. I wasn't using hot water or any chems that could cause this very strong smell. I made a mental note to call HydrTek in the morning and ask them what it could be. As I was wrapping-up yesterday's job, I heard a gurgling/hissing sound I had never heard before.

Now I had a stinking/hissing rig. I tracked-down the source to...the battery! Inside it's case, the battery was hissing and spitting sulfuric acid! How/why it didn't explode, I don't know.

The moral of the story, If your rig stinks, check the battery!

 

[ron p]

the battery must be overcharging

did you check out the voltage reg.?

 

[John Orr]

Ron,

Great suggestion! I had it checked today, and all appears normal.

 

[John Orr]

An update:

The voltage check showed normal - around 14 volts - but the second battery started cooking as well. I replaced the reg. and all is well now. My local B&S dealer was very helpful - had the part the next day - warranty covered it.

 

[ron p]

ron p

nice follow-up.
I hate dead threads

 

[Ron Musgraves]

Funny that very thing happened to me once.