Throw a meter on across the battery while it's idling. Should read 14.5 Vdc. Below 50% charge damages a wet cel battery. If the battery got low a time or two before you bought the trickle charger, it was probably too late. New battery + trickle charger should be fine for several years up to five.

I mean, where would Giant Bomb be without the bad boy of games media?

Thoroughly enjoyed your episode with Jeff Grubb. I just subscribed to PC Gamer on your recommendation.