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

[John Hofstetter <hofs@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

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).