Quote Originally Posted by handybat
. Yes I always take my caps off. Don't know if it makes a difference or not but better safe than sorry.
The caps are vented ... so the gases can escape. That's a two edged sword - it keeps the battery from coming under pressure and rupturing ... but also allows the gases to escape and potentially get ignited by a spark or heat. Most battery expert sites say to leave the caps on ... but, mainly to prevent the electrolyte solution (acid) from bubbling/splattering out of the holes (which can lead to acid burns on clothing, other items in close proximity, and personal body parts).
If you don't think there's any battery acid on your battery, just try this : put some baking soda in water, and "wash" the battery casing. Any fizzing/bubbling that takes place on the casing, is the battery acid being neutralized :D ......... cp