Absolutely the first thing to do !!!
You still have the original battery !!!!

 

Welcome! Our current battery came from local Napa, (Legend Premium), 2 years ago. Possibly made by Interstate. Correct fit, same ratings. It is vented, small hole; each end, top center. One hole is capped and I have a short clear vent hose routed into a small secure container @ other end. Napa also offers an AGM model.
Several routine maintenance items may be due by mileage and/or time specifications. Have fun with it!

 

Not neccessarily, the original batteries were VARTA batteries, some were replaced by MOPAR batteries as they ware failing on the lots. White batteries were available and maybe still are in some places. Ideally you should decode the date moulded into the case to get the real age.
NeedsWings sells or did sell the copper washers, but as has been said it is easier to drain the oil from the top with a pump of some kind.

 

Neg terminal was really corroded and I had to use a hammer and flat blade screwdriver to separate the clamp. New battery is installed and as soon as filter and washers arrive, the oil will be changed. Thanks again for all the replies.

 

Off to a good start it seems

 

I get a good laugh at your sig, "When I was a boy I was told that anybody could become President; I'm beginning to believe it." - Clarence Darrow
Never have truer words been spoken.

 

I personally don't think the AGM-design batteries ("absorbed glass mat") are worth the money. In fact, Consumer Reports has indicated that some of these don't perform as well as the conventional batteries of the same size. Here in SC the environment isn't harsh enough for me to justify purchasing an AGM battery. And I don't subject my Crossfire to any significant harsh movement (like an ATV, for example) that would warrant an AGM battery.


Here's some comments I found regarding AGM batteries (www.reference.com):

An AGM battery, commonly used in ATVs and motorcycles, is a type of sealed battery with a fiberglass mat sandwiched between the battery's plates to hold the electrolyte. AGM stands for "absorbed glass mat" in reference to the fiberglass sheet.

AGM batteries stand up to lots of movement and a rough environment, which makes them ideal for off-road vehicles. These batteries are also a first choice in weather and ice-monitoring stations in harsh environments. Because the fiberglass mat keeps the battery from leaking if it is damaged, AGM batteries are common in electric scooters and wheelchairs that are frequently used indoors. Additional advantages of AGM batteries include their ability to operate in any position and function properly without ventilation.

For me, that last point could be a reason to use an AGM battery in the Crossfire.

Later,

 

Here's a link to Pelican Parts for routine parts (and any drivetrain / suspension parts) applicable to the Crossfire. Using the 2004 M-B SLK320 (XFire NA) or SLK32 AMG (XFire SRT-6) will show results for nearly everything that one would need. The "fleece" filters and oil pan plug copper seal are listed from a variety of sources. Prices are reasonable.

Pelican Parts for M-B

 

I use a "crushable" drain plug gasket found in the local auto parts house in the OIL-TITE section. Item No is 65310. Size listed is 1/2" (or M14). Last time I bought these it cost me $3.99 for a package of 3 gaskets - that's $1.33 each. I tighten the drain plug to the recommended torque (30 N-m or 22 ft-lbs) and have never had any leaks or issues from this gasket.

I like the application of & exposure to gravity when I drain the oil! Besides, gets me under the front suspension every couple of years so I can look around for any other pending issues.

Later,

 

I bought the fleece filter, the 0w40 Mobil 1 European Car Formula and am still waiting for the five crush copper washers I ordered. I didn't see any reason to buy an AGM Battery so I didn't. In the Spring, I need to check into getting the clear coat repaired on the windshield trim and rear bumper. I'm retired so I'm in no hurry. The car will spend the winter in a heated garage so it won't see nasty weather.

 

The so called fleece is actually fibre glass, so no sheep are harmed during the manufacture of these filters. PETA will be glad to here this.

 

I sheared that sheep for nothing.

 

Take up knitting. Make yourself a Crossfire sweater.

 

Ray
It looks like we have a few things in common. We both think these Crossfires are great cars as well as an incredible value. I am Retired and just turned 62 and I just bought an SRT6 Coupe. It will probably be my last Sports Car. Not to far from Indiana either.

 

I wish I had a convertible but they are few and far between. I did get my oil changed on Saturday. There wasn't a washer on the plug and I had to use a generic copper gasket I bought at O'Reillys. Since I got the XF from a Nissan dealer, I didn't trust what type of oil and filter they used.