les v,

1.) Any brand charger will work with the Exide load hog as long as it's amp out put is compatible with the battery. Do you have the battery model number. It is in this type of format XX-YY(Y)-ZZ XX = number of cells; YY(Y) = is either a two or 3 digit number that equal the number of amps/positive plate in each cell; ZZ = total number of plates (positive & negative) in each cell. With this model number we can advise the original amp/hr capacity of the battery. This number might be a.) stamped in teh side of teh battery case; b) stated on an applied lable; & should be stamped on an inner cell connector near the positive (red) battery cable. One needs to remove the plastic covers near where the positive cable is affixed to the battery. REMOVE ALL JEWELRY, WATCHES, ETC WHEN DOING THIS & WEAR SAFETY GLASSES & DON'T WEAR ANY GOOD CLOTHES WITH COTTON. That sulfate makes nice little holes in cotton noticeable after the next washing - it is OK to wear a 70's polyester leisure suit though.

3. When you say the water (electrolyte) level is OK. Is the level about 1/2" below the bottom of the cell cap hole or more & at least above the top of the cell plates. This is where it should be to avoid electrolyte from "boiling" out during charging - not really boiling but expansion of the volume takes place as gas bubble are formed during the charging process.