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Re: Optima batteries, side posts are not for winching!



On Thursday, June 26, 2003, at 08:07  PM, Shubin, Pete wrote:

CHARGING VOLTAGE VALUE IS CRITICAL

AGM and Gelled batteries require a charging voltage that does not exceed
14.00 volts (summer temperatures may require even lower voltages).
Unfortunately almost all automotive charging systems have a permanently
fixed set point voltage that exceeds 14.00 and this spells trouble.
Subjecting the batteries to (commonly found) 14.6 volts for a prolonged
period will eventually destroy them. Pusher diesel motorhomes normally use
truck-type alternators and voltage regulators and most have internal set
screws which can be fine-tuned (To lower the voltage set point). Automobiles
(pickup trucks) and standard motorhome charging systems can be modified to
accept an exterior adjustable voltage regulator. Your local automotive
electrical rebuild shop can be a lifesaver if you elect to go that route.
For your edification, 14.05 volts is my personal "upper limit" for charging
valve regulated batteries.

Pete,

I found your post interesting. Here is a quote right from the Optima data on their web site. Interesting to compare the discrepancies.

Quote:


Recommended charging rates:
#
Alternator:
13.8 to 15.0 volts no amperage limit.
#
Battery charger:
13.8 to 15.0 volts, 10 amps maximum, 8 hours maximum.
#
Boost Recharge:
Maximum voltage 15.6 volts (regulated).
Maximum current: 60 amps.
Maximum recharge time: 2 hours.
All limits must be strictly adhered to.
#
Float charge:
13.2 to 13.8 volts, 1 amp maximum current, time indefinite (at lower voltage levels).



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