Do dry cell battery's also need to be in a sealed battery box? I don't have a current rule book and the 1999 book doesnt say anything about dry cell batteries, but the BMR website sells a battery relocation mount that puts the battery where the spare tire is and says "Do not use with wet cell battery" so does that mean dry cell is NHRA approved to not need a sealed box? Or is that mount just totally not for racing?

 

I'll answer my own question just in case anyone else wants the info and skipped over the BMR FAQ too.


"Is your battery relocation mount NHRA legal?"

According to the current rulebook, no. Wet cell batteries produce Hydrogen fumes while charging. This is why NHRA mandates a sealed battery box vented to the outside of the vehicle. Dry cell batteries are completely sealed and do not produce any fumes at all. Eventually dry cell batteries will become legal for use inside the vehicle but for now it is up to your local track official.

 

My 2001 Rule book states that:

"All batteries must be placed in a sealed 0.024" steel box, or
0.032" aluminum box, or NHRA accepted poly box".

I realize that doesn't specify the cell type...but knowing NHRA rules, it will cover all the bases.

If you want more specifics on requirements for location within the
car for 2001, feel free to ask.

 

Thanks! Know where I can get a 2004 rule book? Will come in handy.

 

Try the site for on-line purchase

www.nhra.com

Or here's a phone #:

626-914-4761

$ 10.00 US (2001)

 

Here's what it says in the 2004 rulebook:

All batteries must be securely mounted. Batteries may not be relocated into the driver or passenger compartments. Rear firewall of .024-inch steel or .032-inch aluminum (including package tray)required when battery is relocated in trunk. In lieu of rear firewall battery may be located in a sealed .024-inch steel, .032-inch aluminium, or NHRA accepted poly box. If sealed box is used in lieu of rear firewall, box may not be used to secure battery and must be vented outside of body. Relocated batteries must be fastened to frame or frame structure with a minimum of two 3/8-inch diameter bolts. ("J" hooks prohibited or must have open end welded shut) Metal battery hold down straps mandatory. Strapping tape prohibited. A maximum of two automobile batteries, or 150 pounds combined maximum weight (unless otherwise specified in Class Requirments), is permitted. Maximums may vary according to Class Requirements.

 

.N/M

 

To the NHRA/IHRA there is no specification if it's a dry or wet cell battery. All batteries must be installed as per the above mentioned rule. That means your dry cell battery must be inside a sealed and vented box.

The BMR mount is for street use and is not NHRA/IHRA approved.