Battery smells

[Guest]

When starting my 81 gs550T battery smells like sulfur.I had a hard time getting spark,so this may be a clue.Any suggestions? switched R/R with another one I had -same thing!

[tom203]

Methinks your battery needs recycling- get a new one and test your charging system just in case it caused an overcharging problem.

[Mark Byrum]

battery smells

Getting a new battery would sure be a quick fix,but battery shows 13 volts on full charge.Charger shows faults when problems occur.I'll need another battery soon any way for another bike,worth trying thanks.

[tom203]

I have had lots of batteries that show 13 volts after charging episode, but put a load on them and they fall flat. whatever you do, make sure you test charging system- this is a common failure in these vintage bikes.

[ontario.chris]

My battery was smelling like that as well. R/R was pooched and the battery was overcharging.

Might not be the R/R. Check the stator as well.

[koolaid_kid]

When you do replace it, be sure and get an AGM. Spillproof, precharged, and they last for years. But check out that charging system first.

[Gorminrider]

When starting my 81 gs550T battery smells like sulfur.I had a hard time getting spark,so this may be a clue.Any suggestions? switched R/R with another one I had -same thing!

The electrolyte is sulfuric acid so it's no suprise. However, you wouldn't /shouldn't smell it unless the caps are loose or the overflow/vent hose is lost. check the electrolyte level. If the battery is gassing a lot, ( a symptom of overcharging) you lose electrolyte.

[Mark Byrum]

battery smells

This is to say "It was the battery all the time,it had the volts but could not start my bike. New battery and problems gone.thanks