Rib trimming of universally molded battery container

A multicell battery case, adaptable for use with a variety of cell-pack sizes, is molded with universal-sized cell compartments and opposing spacer-ribs projecting a predetermined distance into the cell compartments from the compartments' walls so as to provide an inter-rib gap across the compartment substantially equal to the narrowest cell pack useful with that case. The case is thereafter adapted for use with thicker cell packs by trimming back the opposing ribs to increase the gap therebetween to approximately the thickness of the cell pack actually destined for use with that case. Preferably, rib-shaving blades are inserted into the case and guided in spaced relation from the rib-bearing walls to remove distal portions of the ribs. Means are provided to detach the shavings from the container at their roots.