2003 Battery problems solved | Ford Thunderbird forum club group 1955-2005 models

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2003 Battery problems solved

  • Thread starter Thread starter rhgiesen
  • Start date Start date
rhgiesen

rhgiesen

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Thunderbird Year
2003
A solution process for battery problems.
When Battery issues are noticed,
1. Have battery and alternator checked. A weak alternator or overpowering alternator will damage the replacement battery.
2. Look for broken or frayed ground cables trying and engine area.
3. Repair before the replacement.

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Also,, when replacing the battery know all about the VENT TUBE, I knew. I checked prices & for some reason the dealer had the best price, with free installation, better than all the auto parts stores around. I told the FORD dealer several times about the vent tube. The tech said he would be sure to install the battery & the vent tube correctly. The tech replaced the battery and then said there was NO vent tube attached when he removed it. They suggested I buy a $5 vent hose at an auto parts store. I had to explain to them the difference between a circle and a rectangle. When I got it home, I pulled the battery out (without disconnecting it) and there was the vent tube, attached to the car and going down thru the trunk. I called the FORD dealer. I reminded them I told them about the vent tube several times. I told them I wasn't calling to complain. I was calling to inform them I was correct all along and the next retro that they install a battery in should be done correctly. They apologized and said for my trouble they would give me a free oil change. I was there at 9am the next day 'cause I didn't want them to forget.
 
Last year I purchased a 2005, and was replacing the battery because the incorrect battery already installed was not configured to accept the required vent tube. The correct model (with the design that accepts the tube) was MUCH more expensive than the non-vent tube one with the same specs (size, capacity, etc). I opted to get an AGM battery instead. Being a sealed battery, there was no need for the vent tube. I realize that the charging routine programed into the Tbird is not optimum for an AGM battery, and may affect longevity. I decided to go with that mismatch. Considerations included my driving habits (infrequent) and intended use of a battery maintainer. We will see how this works out.

Rust, your experience: "I had to explain to them the difference between a circle and a rectangle." and all that goes with dealings with those folks who are supposed to be the pros, the knowledgeable ones, is far too common these days!
 
Since the battery in located in the trunk, just inches from the spare tire, the battery must be vented externally. Though slight, the fumes from a battery that is not externally vented will deteriorate the tire over time. Since the air pressure in the spare tire is 50 pounds, you are literally driving with a bomb in the trunk.

doug7740
1955 Thunderbird Blue

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