Newbie Battery Recommendations

[Sillymangoes]

Hi All,

I think I am due for new batteries, as having cranking issues. Seems to be dropping to 11v on crank. What is this deep cell battery business? I have a duel battery system - will I need to replace both?

TIA

[threedogs]

You may have a short ,for a start battery get the highest CCA you can say 750,
Jury is out on the AUX battery this is deep cycle to run your accessories, you can buy a seal lead acid
Or a wet cell like my Trojan 115AH more bang for your buck over sealed batteries.
Check your voltage coming from the back of the alternator too.
re do your battery earths or any earths you see, Patrols are woefull in the earth dept
Optima do a good battery as well. Me I have an AC delco start and trojan Aux

[Sillymangoes]

Thanks,
I'm not the most mechanically or electrically savvy, it's been "fun" trying to work it out. Seems to struggle in the cold significantly more. Have been concerned on getting new batteries and if its the effect not the cause.

[threedogs]

What side of Melb are you might be able to help you.

BTW no silly questions here mate ask anything you want
you have to start somewhere
If it struggles when its cold its a sure sign the battery is on the way out.
maybe depending on the battery check fluid and put it on charge over night

EDIT I have two Baintech voltage gauges fitted to monitor the batteries.
IMO I dont think you need the expensive dual style, I glance every now and then
if the get erratic I'll know somethings up .One monitors start and the other my Aux
One each side of my head unit

[Sillymangoes]

East Melbourne.

Just bought one new battery, will put it as the main, and move the main to aux. It had a much better charge.

What should I run to the aux? Currently it seem the only thing running of aux would be for the fridge. Voltage gauges seem like a very good idea.

[threedogs]

Ideally you want a Deep cycle battery to run the fridge, they can handle being drained and charged
over and over again. Use a green scourer on the battery posts and inside the connectors,
I run nearly everything off the Aux, leaving the start for just starting.
If you get stuck Im over DeerPark way

[Sillymangoes]

Hi Threedogs or anyone else,

So I have a Piranha Battery "Monitor" which is just a light bar with about 10 bars if full. I installed the new battery and with ignition on it is reading only half. When the car is running it is reading almost full. Why is it different between ignition and running? My old main battery was reading the same level and was tested at marginal. ????

[the evil twin]

Hi Threedogs or anyone else,

So I have a Piranha Battery "Monitor" which is just a light bar with about 10 bars if full. I installed the new battery and with ignition on it is reading only half. When the car is running it is reading almost full. Why is it different between ignition and running? My old main battery was reading the same level and was tested at marginal. ????

Ign on means there is a draw on the battery and it should be 5 or 6 bars (12.5 volts or so) depending on Diesel/Petty/Glow Plugs/Ignition/Accessories fitted etc

Engine running means the Alternator is putting 13.8 volts or more at the battery so should be 9 bars (13.2 or more).

Voltage when the engine is running (or recently run) means very little in regard to battery condition.