Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Batteries-Again

[RClark]

My 02, new Dec 01 still has the original batteries. This is the longest that I can remember keeping them without major problems so

i a, thinkinb it is about time for replacement.

Not wanting to rush into spendinb money when there are so many other goodies out there I want to do/have them tested.

Does anyone know of a simple load test that I could do?

I have a digital voltmeter.

 

[Hahn007]

RClark,

Most battery shops will load test it for free. Not sure where you are located but I always use budget batteries. Good luck.



Chris Hahn

 

[ScottLewis]

I'm still on my original batteries. My truck rolled off the Mexico line in October of '97.



I keep expecting it to fail me, but being cheap, I'll run it 'til it does. Good luck



Dan Avilla

 

[dslmacdown]

My '02 built in Oct. '01 and the batteries are nearly dead. Getting harder to start and slower cranking everyday and will not start in very cold weather. I would love to replace them with some Optima yelllow top 31's (900 CCA and 155 mins. reserve), but I can't even afford cheapy batteries because I am unemployed. I am just waiting for the day when I jump in the truck, turn the key and get click-click, and it will come at the worst possible time.

 

[Grizzly]

I carry a Power Station with a built in compressor and light in my 03 Toyota Avalon as I expect the battery to go any time. I purchased it at Costco for $49,99. It's good insurance because a car battery can go anytime without warning. I don't know if the Power Station has enough power to crank over a Cummins diesel.

 

[rweis]

Mine (02) were not really fully recharging. I started using a battery charger on 2 times a week. The extra overnight charging (10 amp cycling on / off) seems to have brought them back much closer to normal. Still do not have the little green eye recovered yet though.



Maybe the daily drive (17 miles) did not recharge them sufficiently (I also run a 3 amp fan 2 hours after shutdown).



I read a thread that someone replaced the alternator and the new alternator would charge at idle unlike the OEM alternator. Just an idea.



Bob Weis

 

[RClark]

Just checked the voltage after several days sitting. 12. 41 on both. Next time I'll disconnect one of the grounds so I can get a reading on each separately.

Not bad for over 4 yrs old.