Pajero Owners Club of South Africa

My 2005 Gen 3 DID usually starts without a problem. When it isn't driven for a few (5) days the battery goes flat. The battery had low electrolyte levels on the last two occasions. When I fill it up and charge it, she starts fine. Is the problem my battery or my alternator?

The quickest and easiest way to get your answer is to pop in at a battery centre. It takes them 10 seconds to test your battery and charging system.

Your alternator could be over-charging.

My battery was cooked by my alternator and I discovered it too late. New battery and regulator later and all is fine.

My alternator was charging at 17v+.

On the plus side, my temp. gauge now stays under half. Wierd!

Nico.

It would seem as if Nico is right. Overcharging causes hydrogen gas to be generated as a by product hence the loss of electrolyte.

@ Nico - only disadvantage is the lights are not so nice and bright anymore

Too true Henk.

Rule of thumb:

Low electrolyte = overcharging