--- In
DSN_KLR650@yahoogroups.com, "symme7ry" wrote:
>
>
> I recent tried removing my battery from my 2005 KLR 650. As I was
> trying to pull it out, a large piece the battery holder broke off
and
> this strange tube that I hadn't noticed before flew off the bike
and
> landed on the ground.
>
> I uploaded some photos of this tube here:
>
>
http://picasaweb.google.com/internety/Klr#
>
> The photos show me attaching both ends of the tube to where I THINK
> they should go after I replace the battery. If I am wrong someone
> please let me know.
>
> Also, what is the purpose of this tube?
>
> Thanks,
> Elliot
>
Leg Pull Switch: ON
Elliot,
It looks like you got it installed correctly.
That would be the KLR election hose. That hose is only installed on
election-year models. Your 2005 must have that installed by
accident.
But why is it there:
If you lean to far to the right, ie, lay the bike down on the 'right'
side, the hose allows the bike to vent a small amount of acid before
you pick it up. Perhaps, none at all.
If you lay the bike down on the 'left' side, you get an acid bath
that you were not expecting. (And that is 'no-kidding-true', pick the
bike up as soon as possible because it has started bleeding battery
acid!)
If you keep the bike 'upright', you will only get an 'venting acid-
bath' when you overcharge the battery.
A lot like reading the KLR list during the election cycle. Lean to
far to the left or right, and you will need assistance in picking up
the pieces--if there are any to pick up.
Draw your own inference to the right-left metaphor. Perhaps the KHI
was sending a subtle message. yawn.
Leg pull switch: OFF
Seriously,
Don't ride your bike without that hose installed, and wash the acid
residue from the frame as soon as possible if you take a dirt nap.
and,
It really does leak more acid out if you lay it on the left side.
Get the bike upright as soon as possible.
After significant leakage, you will need to service that battery with
distilled water, and a trickle charge would be nice as well. Normal
wet-cell battery maintenance/service should be done (at a minimum)
during an oil change, or as little as 1000 miles if you are riding in
very hot conditions.
revmaaatin.
ps. thankfully, there are 'independent' maint. free batteries that
don't care which side your bike takes a dirt nap. They just won't
pee acid on you, no matter where you take them (except under a truck).
They just cost more. shrug.
Simple equation: add water, or add more $$ to cure a spilling
battery.