I thought that I would post this - Even though it makes me look stupid..

I went out yesterday AM and battery would barely turn - No start... I was at the ranch so no problems (chargers/ equipment to jump with) But, when I installed my Oasis Compressor - I installed a Cole Hersee Battery Isolator and a Aux Battery (Deep Cycle).. So I just pressed the Momentary switch on the isolator and started the truck Normal (Everybody needs this setup - if you don't like being stranded..)

But the point is - I check the voltage on the Battery and it was 10.5X While off/ Charging at 13.8X while running... So I drove back to town - about an hour figuring it would charge - this AM it started but was weak... Came to office & figured I might be buying a new battery. went out & tested again - Volts in mid 10's.. Then I realized that these factory batteries are NOT maintenance free. I have had gel type batteries in most all my trucks/ equipment for years & stupidly haven't been checking this new one. Checked the water - it was low Added - Drove around a little and it seems to be staying 12.7X even after sitting for an hour or so...

So all is good - Just add water!

Just a note - I have been changing the Oil at the Dealer pretty regular - about every 6 weeks & the Package "the Works" they are suppose to check Battery as well as brakes, fluid levels etc.. I'm now guessing that they don't pop the caps & check the water level in the Battery... Last change was June 6th...

But - I get the dumb award for 42,000 miles without personally checking the water in Battery....

 

I wouldn't be ashamed, maintenance free batteries have been around a long time, surprised Ford still uses the "old" ones. Definitely good information!

/the more you know. (lol)

 

A good reminder. Thanks.

 

Just a follow-up....

After a couple of days - still had some weak starts - So I pulled a "good Battery " out of a Jeep and tried it.. Leaving the Motorcraft battery in the bed of the truck overnight until I can get to Auto Part store...

Checked the Motorcraft when I removed it - Showed 12.4 volts... 7:00 PM Tues. - Weds at 10:00 AM I put a meter on it and it had fallen to 10.3 volts - just sitting in bed of truck with nothing touching it...

 

Time for a new battery.

 

Already in.... My thoughts exactly -

 

Where do you have the aux battery located?

 

I built a frame to hold a battery box under the passenger door. Attached to the frame..