Miata Mailing List: May 1996, Message #33
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   From: Sean Archer 
Subject: Re: Mazda OEM Batteries
   Date: Wed, 1 May 1996 15:57:23 -0400


>Bob,
>
>At 06:39 PM 4/30/96 -0400, you wrote:
>
>>Please see my previous response that I tried to send you directly but had
>>returned as undeliverable for some reason.  It outlines the full story,
>>however I'll add a few comments on your comments below.
>
>I still haven't received the first message, could you please try again?
>
>>As I explained as well, the safety aspect is not whether its a wet cell
>>battery - both are wet cell batteries.  The Panasonic one is a slightly
>>different configuration, thats all.  The safety factor is venting fumes
>>outside the trunk, and the Mazda Canada battery utilizes factory approved
>>venting.
>>
>>Hope your questions are answered.
>>
>>Bob
>>
>>BBBBB U   U N    N TTTTT   '96 BRG
>>B   B U   U NN   N   T     "Whoever has the most toys
>>BBBBB U   U N  N N   T      when you die - wins"
>>B   B U   U N   NN   T      (but - you're still dead!)
>>BBBBB UUUUU N   NN   T
>
>
>Sorry Bob, must disagree.  The Panasonic is an AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat)
type battery.  There is no "liquid" electrolyte that can move freely within
the battery case, instead the electrolyte is absorbed into fiberglass
matting between the plates of each cell.  This battery was chosed by Mazda
Engineers for several reasons.  One, it is smaller than the conventional
battery freeing up much needed space in the trunk.  Two, it is significantly
lighter than the conventional battery and is placed on the right side of the
car to help offset the weight of the driver (ie. full tank of gas, driver,
battery position etc. etc. designed for 50%/50% weight distribution).  And
three, most importantly, will not spray battery acid over the occupants of
the car in the case of a rear end accident.  The vent tubes are not the
issue, which incidentally I had to modify so they wouldn't come off and vent
into my trunk.
>
>When Mazda Canada decided to replace the AGM battery with a conventional
wet cell, 
>they changed the weight distribution and handling of the car and possibly
set themselves up for a massive lawsuit when someone get's injured because
of spraying acid.  Did Mazda Canada do any crash tests before they made this
decision?  I don't think so.  Purely a bean counter decision if you ask me.
As soon as I can afford it, I'll be replacing that battery with a proper one
from the US.
>
>

 _____________________________________________________________
|Sean N. Archer               | Ph. (403)530-8794             |
|Network Specialist           | Fax.(403)530-5735             |
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