I Need a new battery. Need info. ASAP.

**Audi-ence** · 09-02-2008 03:54 PM

Hi,

I really hate

the fact that this is the reason for my fist post here, but oh well. I did a search but I couldn't find any definitive info. on what type/brand of battery is recommended for a 2004 A4 1.8T (B6).

Also, I noticed besides the RED+ cable and the BLACK- cable there is a smaller cable that runs into the side of the battery next to the RED+ terminal. Can anyone tell me what this smaller cable is for

.

Thanks in advance!

**Audi-ence** · 09-02-2008 05:02 PM

ok,ok,....here's what I'm talking about....wtf is that small tube for? I need to know before I go out and get a new battery that doesn't accept that small tube. HELP!

**smarrick** · 09-02-2008 05:07 PM

battery vent tube

**mattman** · 09-02-2008 05:17 PM

I'm running an Optima Redtop (35 series).
works like a charm. fits no problem. weighs about 15 lbs less then the stock one.
It came with a hold-down kit. I used one the brackets it came with along with the stock mounting bolt to hold it down. stays put, no problem.

**Audi-ence** · 09-02-2008 05:19 PM

I'm guessing I need to get a battery that will accept that tube then....right?

I was thinking about getting a "OPTIMA" red top battery, but now I don't know what to do because of that tube.

How important is that vent/tube? and what are my options as far as a new battery goes?

**zbrock06** · 09-02-2008 05:20 PM

you don't need to worry about that tube, i have a red top and it owrks fine plus it's way cheaper then the OEM battery!

**T0M3K** · 09-02-2008 05:22 PM

The vent is used solely to aid removal of toxic gases from battery. I think it is only the problem with unsealed batteries (where you can check electrolyte level and add distilled water). All newer batteries have no need for such ventilation.

**bfisher88** · 09-02-2008 05:22 PM

My battery just died today so I had to take it to the shop and get them to put in a new one. The one they put in doesnt accept that tube either. Don't think it really matters but I could be wrong. Next time I'll do it myself, had to get it done fast today.

**mattman** · 09-02-2008 05:22 PM

That tube is just to vent the gas produced by the battery acid i beleive.
prior to 04 the tube was a bit different...it didn't exactly plug in to the battery like yours does. mine was different. it'll work fine without the tube though.

**Audi-ence** · 09-02-2008 05:29 PM

Thanks for the help guys

. I'll prob. go with the red-top, I had one in my Spec-V and it never let me down.

Should I just put a piece of tape or something to cover the tube, or just leave it?

**pondside36** · 09-02-2008 05:31 PM

Lead acid batteries give off Hydrogen, hence the vent to prevent it from building up in the engine bay.

**agart** · 09-02-2008 06:38 PM

I'm running a Optima Yellow-top. Also 35 series. I chose yellow because I'm running a stereo that draws a lot of power but I'm assuming you're not in which case red-top would be a better and cheaper choice. Just as everyone else already said, no need to worry about the tube. I just moved mine out of site when I put the new battery in just in case I ever decide to pop a stock battery back in.