If the battery had water in it it sounds like the battery is shot.

s40newbie wrote on 01/16/10 at 05:31:46:


Electrical is not my strong area, but whowing 14.8v when running just indicates that the system is trying to charge the battery and does not necessarily mean it is accepting the charge.

I have had experience in the past where a battery was destroyed along with an alternator simply because the battery ground cable was corroded inside, but I did not realize it because the cable was covered with plastice/rubber stuff.  When I peeled the covering off the ground cable was totally messed up and corroded from end to end.
Since the cable was bad the battery was not able to accept a charge and died a terrible death, but the alternator also died because it continually worked itself to death trying to charge a battery that was not able to accept it.  All for the sake of a simpe ground cable.

That may not be your problem but be sure to check every connection for a clean contact surface, and each cable for corrosion, and battery fluid level and quality.  If after a recharge the battery will still not maintain its charge then get a new battery.

Thanks for the replies guys
Ive had a look at the battery and its topped up with enough fluid so ill give another recharge a go.
Not heard of the "big crank" battery before but it does sound nice for a savage

Ive put the battery on again and done the same thing again. Ive double checked all the connectors and wiring and i cant see any breaks or anything loose.
I'll try a new battery and see if that solves it