auzivision

I know this isn't exactly 928 specific, but I'm guessing there may be a few with old inoperable tools lying around because of dead batteries.

Has anyone around here ever tried this?

At first I thought it might just be an urban legend, but now I’m beginning to wonder. Following are a few links on the topic:

http://www.instructables.com/id/Revi...with-a-Welder/

http://www.ehow.com/how_5040729_revi...batteries.html

http://lumberjocks.com/topics/4334

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PzIlVLOH9XI

http://www.handymanclub.com/communit...=posts&t=42166

hacker-pschorr

"WARNING:
If you get killed by a poisonous explosion it means you did something wrong.
Electrocution is a real possibility also.
Ask your parents how to not electrocute yourself with a welder."

Should be fun to see the aftermath the first time some Prius owner gives it a go.....

AO

"Hey watch this... here hold my beer." famous last words.

Shark Attack

it actually sometimes works. But not suggested pratice

Giovanni

Post it also on off topic and I may try it depending on the success and fatality rate.

depami

I have actually done this many, many, many times but not with a welder. I used a BIG A$$ adjustable DC power supply and I monitored amperage and voltage very closely. Also, I only did one cell at a time.

Yes it is dangerous but often works quite well. I have had success ranging from: cell is dead and can’t be revived …. came back but only lasted a few charge / discharge cycles …. to …. worked and lasted over five years.

WallyP

I still have the plans around somewhere for a "NiCad Battery Zapper". A big capacitor, a simple power supply to charge it up, and a push-button to discharge it thru the cell. Works, but you don't get a new battery - just a used battery that now works, sorta, for a bit longer.

- The capacitor rig is much safer, as it limits the power to avoid over-heating/exploding the cell.
- It is much safer to work with individual cells, not a battery.

I bought two new 18-volt drill batteries for some off-brand drill for $1 each. Disassembled the batteries, charged the string of cells, and will now use the 30 new sub-C NiCad cells to rebuild my Porter Cable and Dewalt batteries. Better results and safer than zapping the batteries.

JHowell37

I wish every Prius owner would try it.