So, I had to replace my 4.5+ year old original battery (2019 Ram Bighorn) which seemed to be on its last legs and didn't want to wait until one cold morning for a surprise . When I removed it, the battery tray/sectioned compartments under the battery were FILLED with water. The battery was fully intact and was not leaking - I checked it thoroughly. It was definitely water but I could not find any means of egress of how it got in there. I should have snapped some photos but did not have my phone with me. I used a shop rag to dry up the water and then let the tray air dry. The water in the tray looked "fresh"...it was clear with no discoloration.
The battery tray is heavy duty plastic with several sectioned compartments - square type grids which are for added strength. They are maybe 1.5" - 2" deep and each was filled to the top with water. There are also no drains in any of them. I was thinking of drilling some drain holes in them but thought better of it when I saw how close the tray sits to the left front wheel liner as I did not want to risk drilling into that.
There were no other signs of water in the engine compartment or indication of water damage. The top and sides of the old battery were dry and looked normal.
We did have some heavy rain recently but again, I can't see any way the water got under the hood and migrated into the battery tray. And, no, I haven't driven through any deep puddles or standing water recently. Also, solid OEM hood, no vents, scoops or any modifications. All rubber gaskets in the engine compartment/below windshield are in place & intact.
Any ideas...I'm stymied.
The battery tray is heavy duty plastic with several sectioned compartments - square type grids which are for added strength. They are maybe 1.5" - 2" deep and each was filled to the top with water. There are also no drains in any of them. I was thinking of drilling some drain holes in them but thought better of it when I saw how close the tray sits to the left front wheel liner as I did not want to risk drilling into that.
There were no other signs of water in the engine compartment or indication of water damage. The top and sides of the old battery were dry and looked normal.
We did have some heavy rain recently but again, I can't see any way the water got under the hood and migrated into the battery tray. And, no, I haven't driven through any deep puddles or standing water recently. Also, solid OEM hood, no vents, scoops or any modifications. All rubber gaskets in the engine compartment/below windshield are in place & intact.
Any ideas...I'm stymied.
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