Battery replacement *before* failure

IN that case, I recommend using the published MFD method of checking battery voltage.

 

Jdenenberg's (sp?) post recommended checking the battery voltage through the MFD: first in ACC-ON, then after another push on the power button for a light load while the electronics are starting up. My battery was 12.2 V initally, but dropped to 11.8-11.9 with the load, so I went ahead and ordered the Optima from elearnaid.

As a data point -- this is a 4.5 year old battery. Car is used almost every day, and parked outside in four season weather.

Thanks Jay, and all the helpful folk.

 

My page on Optima swap-in.
Prius Optima Aux

I'm a fan of pre-emptive solutions. And I try to do it environmentally - in this case the old battery became part of my UPS.

 

Do note that you will indeed need every tool they list, and if you don't have a bench vise, a lot of hand strength to dis-assemble the Toyota positive terminal clamp. Oh, and a really bright light source will help. I found it a pleasant way to spend an hour or two on a Saturday.

 

What the *&#$) is the Japanese SHAKEN process? :huh:

I've got this mental image of them lifting the car, turning it over, and shaking it to see if any parts fall off, "Sir, the lifters need to be replaced, the battery needs to be replaced, and the OIL cap needs to be replaced..."

 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaken_(Car_Inspection)

 

So I'm guessing the Japanese equivalent of Meth Mouth isn't working at a Shaken center?

 

Thanks for the warning. Sounds like I have a good reason to go buy another tool (the bench vise).

I'm good :rockon:

 

At those inspection prices, they should have only master mechanics working there.

 

One can only hope ...

 

Optima in. I connected the vent close to the positive terminal to the trunk floor. I was instructed to tap in a vent adapter into a hole next to the negative terminal too, but there is no hosing or outside venting from there. Is this correct ?

 

Huh? The instructions that came with mine say to install the vent tube connector (provided) at the positive end, and to insert a plug (provided) at the negative end.

 

OHHHH... it's a *plug*

OK, let me just convince myself I didn't mix them up: the adapter for the vent hole next to the positive terminal has a 90 degree bend, correct ?

 

Without going out to look, that sounds right.