Tools, Sharpening and Power Machinery - fix rechargable NiCd battery

I have a 12V battery not able to charge. I opened it and used multimeter to measure the battery cell, I found one I got zero and all other cells have readings like 0.78V - 1.25V. Is that cell preventing charging? Can I use another cell to replace the bad cell to fix it?

The cells need to charge at the same rate which they won't do if only one cell is replaced.
The cell you replace will overcharge because the remaining weak cells will cause the charger to run longer.

What make of battery is it?

it's jobmate.. I know it's a cheap brand. It doesn't have the over charge protection. how if I replace one with similar voltage?

From GregH's post it sounds like replacing just one battery won't do.

There is another post here
http://forum.doityourself.com/showthread.php?t=287823&highlight=replace+battery+batteries
about replacing / rebuilding batteries. It includes websites where you can find batteries. I bought some batteries here
www.sciplus.com
but didn't measure properly and they won't fit in the battery case!

So some caution is indicated. Good luck with your project!

If you're doing this for fun, have at it. Trying to save money, you're probably better off buying a new one.

I had a go at replacing the batteries in the battery pack for my cordless.

1) They were non standard size (sub c I think)
2) They still didn't fit right anyway
3) Was a royal pain in the butt to solder together
4) Batteries weren't cheap

I agree with mitch, for the fun of it sure, but, what's your time worth to you?

Jim