I have a 1994 Dodge Intrepid that's just sitting in the garage unused. Problem is, whenever I go out to turn it over, I keep finding the battery dead. If I buy a battery disconnect or (cut-off) switch http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2446028932 and replace the battery with a new one, can I expect this thing to work?

[ 12-02-2003, 03:28 AM: Message edited by: garfield ]

Your idea may work, be sure to check the surge current rating of the cutoff switch. It should be high enough to handle starter current. If its in a garage, or even parked outside, for a long period of time, the best bet may be to add a 1 amp battery charger or battery minder to keep a charge and retain the 'learned history' memory of clock, radio, & ECU.

I second the battery charger idea. For one reason, your engine has a computer. When the power is cut, some of the learned responses such as idle control and fuel trims will be lost. That means when you decide to drive it, it may not run well until it has been through a drive cycle or two.

Lead acid batteries will naturally discharge over time. Let a battery sit a couple of months and it will loose a significant percentage of it's charge. Those 1Amp chargers that everette mentioned are just the thing to keep it topped off. You'll probably want to charge it up with a good battery charger first and then put the trickle charger on it for storage.

Just my opinion but prefer a float charger over a trickle charger for storing a car.