Good Battery Tester

[Zamble]

I am trying to find a good battery/system tester. I have four sealed deep cycle a 2 AGM starting batteries on my boat. Also not to mention our car and truck batteries. I would like to keep cost down seeing how we just had to take the outdrives apart and rebuild them.

Thank you for any suggestions.

 

[steelespike]

Re: Good Battery Tester

A volt/ohm meter is a good start. A hand held will work.
A good battery will settle to about 12.50 volts about 13 fresh off the charger.
Be sure the terminals are clean and tight and the top of the battery is clean
dirt and moisture can discharge over time.A battery that hangs around 12 volts is likely in trouble.A battery that loses voltage over a short time with no load is likely in trouble.
A battery that stands for long periods will sulfate and lose its power.
Must have a float charger for long storage.

 

[Brewman61]

Re: Good Battery Tester

What kind of testing do you have in mind? To me start simple, and get an inexpensive multi tester if you dont' already have one.
Can check voltage, and it's useful for other things, especially if you have a trailer and need to diagnose wiring problems there, or even in your boat.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Good Battery Tester

If all you are interested in is measuring battery voltage then a voltmeter is all you need. However, a worthless battery can measure 12.6 volts "static". When you apply a load voltage drops like a rock. The only way to actually TEST a battery is with a load tester. Batteries can be tested free at most auto stores or you can buy your own load tester. Harbor Freight has them periodically.

 

[Zamble]

Re: Good Battery Tester

I checked the batteries and I am phobic of them dying after fishing overnight. I have 4 tied together and they are paired together because of my charger only allows for two banks. I want a charger that will test the batteries and my engine charging. I saw one but it was $340.00. While it is expensive you, its not overly expensive, but costly. I need one that will diagnose AGM, Gel, Lead, etc... I would use it for my cars and my boat.

I tested the batteries with the ohm meter today. They were at like 12.6ish, when I was cranking the engine, they dropped to 11.4. I know that is ok. I am unsure of the age as I bought the boat about 2 years ago and the batteries came with it. I know when I replace one of the batteries I need to replace the other one on the same bank. But I was actually thinking of replacing the four 27 class batteries with an 8d (i think that is what it is). My boat is a 27' Fiberform cruiser, so we use it for camping and fishing. I like the reserve time. I don't have a large draw, just small overhead light radio, occasional sink, fishfinder, etc... I know an 8 is expensive, but 4 27's cost just as much, well at least 4 good 27's.

I know nothing about who make good testers at good prices. If you could just throw me a list of one that you recommend it would be appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Good Battery Tester

You didn't answer the question! Are you looking specifically for a LOAD TESTER?

Here ya go: Take your pick. I suggest a carbon pile with a minimum 500 amp capacity.

http://www.mechanicstoolswarehouse.com/Testers-C230.aspx

 

[Zamble]

Re: Good Battery Tester

That is what I am looking for. But I am more interested in digitial and/or computerized. Any recommended brands or types?

 

[mcgyver210]

Re: Good Battery Tester

That is what I am looking for. But I am more interested in digitial and/or computerized. Any recommended brands or types?

I have load tester type but I also have a digital Solar BA7 that hasn't let me down or been wrong on checking battery condition & charge system. It is digital & you set it to the secs on your battery it then measures voltage & CCA available & gives a status indication as to the condition.