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Path: utzoo!utgpu!news-server.csri.toronto.edu!cs.utexas.edu!samsung!emory!att!cbnewse!cbnewsd!grande
From: grande@cbnewsd.att.com (brad.l.grande)
Newsgroups: rec.bicycles,sci.electronics,rec.ham-radio
Subject: Revitalizing Gel-Cell batteries
Keywords: Gates Cyclon
Message-ID: <1991Jan30.144229.18948@cbnewsd.att.com>
Date: 30 Jan 91 14:42:29 GMT
Followup-To: poster
Organization: AT&T Bell Laboratories
Lines: 37

Greetings,

I just picked up a couple of Gates Cyclon 12Volt 2.5AmpHour gel-cell batteries
at a ham fest.  When I got them home, I found that they do not hold a charge,
not even remotely.  One will hold approx. 5.9V, the other approx. 4.2V.

These batteries are arranged in 2 packages of 3 cells each.  Each of the 3
cell groups has an opening in the top of the center cell with a rubber cap.

I am interesed in using these batteries for a few different projects and would
like to revitalize them, if possible.

Thats the question, how can I revitalize these cells?  Is adding a little water
the way, or maybe some sulfuric acid?  I am not a chemist and do not know
what is in these cells and I do not want to do something dangerous.

Some additional info:  The batteries appear new (i.e. no scratches were
present on the tinned spade lugs suggesting nothing had been connected to them).
I am charging with a homebrew constant voltage charger I use for another gel-
cell I have, and I tried an automobile battery charger, same results with both
arrangements.


Please reply directly, or at least to rec.bicycles as I will not have time
to browse all three newsgroups.

73's and THANKS!


Brad Grande	WB0OYX
Another bike riding beer brewing kite flying amateur radio operator who
	still likes CD's!

AT&T Bell Labs
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