E ASY DOES I T
I’ve known for some time that a trickle charger was the solution to my problem but couldn’t believe that installing it could be so straightforward as claimed. As things turned out, it’s actually easier than I’d expected.
STEP 1
The GTS’s battery is located under the centre mat and access is gained by removing the four visible screws. Next, undo the two screws securing the battery strap and pull it away. Terminals can now be disconnected. Always remove the negative feed first. Now the old battery can be lifted free. Don’t throw this in the bin, take it to a recycling point.
STEP 2
Remove the plastic tray and inspect the compartment for corrosion. Don’t skimp this part as the battery compartment is a frame-killing rust trap. Treat and paint any rust that’s present, then finish things off with a good blast of your favourite corrosion inhibitor.
STEP 3
The most common place for the quick connection socket to be located is inside the engine bay but, with patience, it’s possible to fit the socket inside the footrest compartment. This is easier to do than explain but start by shining a torch from the battery compartment towards the footrest. Get your eye at the correct angle and you’ll see a small gap in the panel work, the route is shown here with a piece of wire. Next, using some duck tape, fasten the Oximiser leads to a piece of old wire coat hanger. Then, starting from the footrest opening, carefully thread them through the hole. It’s fiddly, and although I got away with it, next time I’d protect the edge of the footrest’s cut-out with tape. I can’t speak for other brands but the Oximiser leads, complete with their inline fuse, will thread through the panel gap with no need to enlarge the opening.
STEP 4
Once in place the connector can be tucked inside the frame, ready to come into service at a moment’s notice. I finished off by fastening a zip tie to the cable to aid its removal.
STEP 5
After replacing the battery tray and dropping in the new battery it’s time to reconnect the terminals. All that’s required to fit the Oximiser leads is to bolt them down with the standard connections. It really is that simple but remember to connect the positive terminal first. Now, secure the battery in place and refit the centre mat. Other than resetting the clock it’s a job well done.