Thanks for Warning on PRAM Battery Exploding!

[jwse30]

I've been perusing this forum for a few months and read somewhere about PRAM batteries exploding and destroying the motherboard they are installed on. So this afternoon, I decided to open up two of my older Macs to remove these batteries, as it's unlikely I'll be using either anytime soon. The one in my IIci had burst, but it was contained to its holder:



Haven't tried firing this machine up to see if it still works. I need to find a video adapter for the Nubus card in there to VGA. It's around here somewhere...

Thanks for warning me about these batteries,

J White

 

[TheMacGuy]

Those pesky PRAM batteries. They go bad after about 5 years. After that, they need replacing. If it is not replaced they will explode.

Thank god Apple started using standard 1/2 hight AA batteries. They go for about $3 on eBay.

 

[James1095]

Most seem to last about 10 years, it varies by usage and storage temperature though and YMMV. I would definitely recommend removing the battery from anything that is not going to be used for a few months or more. I have a IIfx that was completely destroyed by both batteries exploding. There are components that dissolved and fell off the motherboard and rust all over.

 

[LCGuy]

Since moving interstate, I had to leave most of my Macs back at home. One of the things I did, prior to leaving, was to remove ALL PRAM and PowerBook main batteries. Leaving them in is just not worth the risk.

 

[TheMacGuy]

Most seem to last about 10 years, it varies by usage and storage temperature though and YMMV

Usually, for me at least, after about 5 years they go flat, and thats when I like to pop them out and order new ones. I have had stock PRAM battery that were still good, like the iMac G4 and Sawtooth, both were over 10 years old and had the standard Shaft battery. I just buy those cheap $4 batteries from eBay. No problems as of yet. I have them in the Cube and eMac. iMac G4 and Sawtooth still have their factory batteries. 512kE's is pulled, same with the Quadras.