999 battery overflow

Discussion in 'Technical Help' started by Bananaman, Apr 15, 2013.

  1. I have just purchased my first Ducati, it's a 999 03 model and looks great. I got it from a motorcycle trader and it had a new battery fitted (Vata YT12B-BS) on delivery. When I took the fairings off I noticed acid leaking from what looked like the NEGATIVE terminal.

    The trader gave me a brand new battery no quibble. I have just installed it and the bike fires up no problem, except there is battery acid pouring out the overflow spout. The voltage at 4000 rpm is about 14.4V, any ideas? I've had the bike for over a month now and not even had a ride on it yet.
    2 batteries in 2 weeks, it must be overcharging, but I only show 14,4V on my multimeter so it can't be.
     
    #1 Bananaman, Apr 15, 2013
  2. The 999 uses a sealed battery due to it being mounted on it's side. The battery you have been given is unsuitable if it is leaking acid. If the battery came with an acid pack I wonder if they have failed to correctly push home the sealing strip along the top of the battery when they filled it.
     
    #2 chrisw, Apr 15, 2013
    Last edited: Apr 15, 2013
  3. Thanks chrisw, that was what I originally thought so i checked the battery details. The battery is sealed and is suppose to be 100% leakproof. The only time it leaks is when you start the bike.
     
    #3 Bananaman, Apr 15, 2013
  4. #4 chrisw, Apr 15, 2013
  5. Or excessive current draw on cranking the bike over, correct rating batt?
     
    #5 arthurbikemad, Apr 16, 2013
  6. Bananaman

    You mention that you have acid pouring out from the 'overflow spout'. This is a sealed battery and as far as I am aware there is not an 'overflow spout'?

    Has the bike trader you mention given you the correct battery?
     
    #6 CRYSTALJOHN, Apr 16, 2013
    Last edited: Apr 16, 2013
  7. I thought the 999 battery had to be a Gel one, especially as it's mounted on its side.
    You won't get any leaks from a Gel one.
     
    #7 cockneyjanner, Apr 16, 2013
  8. The standard Yuasa supplied as OEM is a sealed lead acid battery. A Gel one would be an improvement though.
     
    #8 chrisw, Apr 16, 2013
  9. I e-mailed Varta batteries, they said the battery shouldn't be placed on its side as it takes about 2 weeks for the acid to go hard. Stange really as when you enter the bike details on their website they suggest using the battery I bought.

    Anyway, the bike trader is coming to collect the bike and take it to Ducati to sort out, he's paying. He thinks it's overcharging. Can't get fairer than that. I'll keep you informed.
     
    #9 Bananaman, Apr 16, 2013
  10. A refreshing change. Good for the dealer :upyeah:
     
    #10 chrisw, Apr 16, 2013
(You must log in or sign up to post here.)
Do Not Sell My Personal Information