Dumb Question: How big of a deal is 1) using non-Porsche battery 2) leaving battery venting tube unconnected (until I can find an adapter somewhere)?

Background: 99 C2. Last year a service shop in Tysons Coner, VA that specializes in P-cars/racing installed non-recommended M&S tires ordered from Tirerack (local Porsche dealer balked at this). At the same time I asked that they replace the battery, check all hoses, etc. Did not focus on it till following weekend, but noticed they replaced Porsche battery with Interstate. Odd, I thought, from a P-car specialty shop, but I figured they knew what they were doing. That turned out to be a mistake.

Fast forward to last weekend, when I'm vacuuming out area around battery and notice a transparent tube hanging loose, which I assumed pertained to windshield wiper fluid or something. Could not for the life of me find a plug-in spot for the tube.

Went to the local Porsche service center. They indicated that it was a venting tube for the Porsche brand battery and would not fit the rectangular hole in the Interstate battery. they were very surprised that the other shop did not use an adapter to connect the tube, but felt leaving it unconnected was not a problem since battery was so new.

Thanx in advance. Is this the dumbest story ever posted or what? Rhetorical question, I know the answer

PS: After a hotly contested bidding war (heh, heh), Fellow Rennlister Eric (bumperplug) won the contract to trick out my interior. Precise mods are classified Top Secret, but upon completion, before and after pics will be posted

 

Bought mine at Costco for $45 and a great warranty!

 

I would get it connected ASAP since granted it won't likely do it soon since it's so new, but when it does do it, it can make a bit of a mess. If it's the same battery that an E39 (1997-200...2, i think, 5 - series) BMW uses, you can get an adapter from any BMW dealership (I know VOB in Rockville has them for sure, though maybe call first anyways). Again, if it's like BMW, the reason people use Interstate in the aftermarket is that for some reasons the batteries that come out of the factory are good, but the replacement ones with the factory symbol on them don't last long at all.

 

I have to admit, that compared to Dell, I got raped by getting mine at SamsClub for $48.

 

Okay, looks like I'll be trolling the local K-mart..I thnk they stock OEM areokits as well. But first a quick stop at the BMW service center.

 

When I called my local dealer about the dead battery, he said "You can pick up an Interstate battery for about $270, or you can just spend a little extra and get the Porsche one for $320."

 

Another option is to install a sealed/no vent battery, like an Optima.

 

I think the only drawback to not connecting the vent is the mess the electrolyte will make in the battery compartment. NOT worth the risk to me!!!

 

the optima sounds like a good idea for my next battery - any downside?

 

The optima may need an adapter plate to bolt into the car. Search for "optima" and you'll find directions on how to make one. Also, the optima is a bit more pricy than the interstate @ about $100 (IIRC). I got mine online from a rennlist sponsor, shipped to my house. The adapter plate was easy for me and I'm not mechanically inclined at all.

Upside is, no leaking worries either under normal ops or, God forbid, if you get into an accident.

Good luck.

 

I've heard of virtually no negative experiences with Optimas, on both track and street use. You can purchase a CNC billet adaper plate for a drop in installation.

There have been posts for deals on Optima batteries at places like Sam's Club/Costco/BJ's Wholesale Club and Wally World....depending on your part of the country.

 

thanx, guys.

 

what is the end of your story?
i have this transparent tube hanging loose too.
what should i do?

 

Either get the tube hooked up or change the battery. IMNSHO, I would go for a sealed/AGM battery. That is only because I had a Sears vent/leak and the acid not only corroded up the battery tray and area, but vented out the tube and the battery acid sprayed all over the wheel and ruined one of my wheels. If any one is in the SF Bay area (south) and wants a replacement Sears DieHard for free (not the one that leaked), it's theirs for stopping by and saying hi. I understand that the one that leaked is not common, but it was not worth the risk to me. Maybe I just take too many Gs?

 

thx, i will check my batt. first.