2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Battery fluid level

[1tuffram]

Popped the caps off my "maintenance free" DieHard batteries to check the fluid level. The level is about 1" down from the cap openings, but the plates are still covered by fluid. What's the proper fluid level? Should I add some distilled water?

 

[illflem]

Too full is bad also, acid will leak out and eat things.

1/2'' to 3/4'' above the plates is plenty. I learned long ago from a expert battery man to fill to this level especially if you go on bumpy or steep offroads, ignore the level marker inside/outside the battery.

 

[1tuffram]

Originally posted by illflem

Too full is bad also, acid will leak out and eat things.

1/2'' to 3/4'' above the plates is plenty. I learned long ago from a expert battery man to fill to this level especially if you go on bumpy or steep offroads, ignore the level marker inside/outside the battery.

Thanks for the advice illflem, I'll re-check them but think there is probably about a 1/2" fluid covering the plates. I just thought maybe the fluid level needed to be at the bottom of where the vent caps rest inside the battery (approx 1/2" below the top of the hole where the caps go in).