Optima dry cell batteries

[Uncle Skip]

Before I screw up a brand new Optima, I heard there is a special way they need to be charged before use.
Something about putting a regular battery between the Optima and the charger in parallel and only on slow charge.
Somebody help me out here.
Urban legend or legitimate concern.
I appreciate the help.

[PFM-64f100]

I never heard of anything special. But then again I've never run any Optima battrees before.

I know that wasn't helpful.

[graybeard]

Say Unck
I've never heard that before. I've got two 6 VLT units connected in series laying flat under the seat in my '32 pickup. I just leave them on a Harbor Freight battery tender non stop never had any trouble yet.

ILC

[Toyz]

I have two of the agm chargers. They are both so finicky that I usually just use my trickle chargers. I have gang charged them with no detrimental effects noted, YET BTW , I no longer buy Optima. Kinetik is my current battery of choice.
Paul

[Harrscars]

As long as there is charge on it now. As in not yet drained dead then you should be able to trickle charge it. When you run them down to nothing there is a specific way to bring them back from the dead. And if you have a charger that has agm setting on it that would be the best way.

My older optimas lasted about 9yrs. I am not getting that out of the new ones.

Charged
Mike

[ROOSTER]

From the optima website

OPTIMA® REDTOP® Charging Information

The following charging methods are recommended to ensure a long battery life. Always use a voltage-regulated charger, with voltage limits set as described below.
REDTOP® Type: 34 & 34R - 34/78 - 78 - 25 & 35 - 75/25
These batteries are designed for engine starting applications. They are NOT recommended or warranted for use in deep-cycle applications.
Recommended charging information:
Alternator:
13.3 to 15.0 volts, no amperage limit.
Battery Charger:
13.8 to 15.0 volts, 10 amps maximum, approximately for 6-12 hours.
Rapid Recharge:
Maximum voltage 15.6 volts (regulated), no current limit as long as battery temperature remains below 125°F (51.7°C). Charge until current drops below 1 amp.
Float Charge:
13.2 to 13.8 volts, 1 amp maximum current, time indefinite (at lower voltage).

[Toyz]

As long as there is charge on it now. As in not yet drained dead then you should be able to trickle charge it. When you run them down to nothing there is a specific way to bring them back from the dead. And if you have a charger that has agm setting on it that would be the best way.

My older optimas lasted about 9yrs. I am not getting that out of the new ones.

Charged
Mike

X2. Since they became part of Johnson Controls, their quality AND longevity have declined significantly IMO. Unfortunately, Johnson also manufactures the majority of competing AGM batteries, so we will see how it all shakes out!
Paul

[qwertyd10n]

I bought a NorthStar AGM battery this summer and so far it's been great.

Cheers,
Dion

[Toyz]

Northstar agm's, made in a joint venture with Exide, are highly rated batteries. I would expect the longevity to be excellent. If they are available at a discounted price, I may try one in a vehicle that requires a sealed or externally vented battery. Kinetik has had a pretty liberal P2P discount program, while Optimas can often be found at a significant discount at Advance Auto. With the current prices of lead acid batteries in general, the economics support spending more money for more battery, although it's hard to beat Wally-marts warranty and battery quality. http://www.greencarcongress.com/2011/12 ... 11213.html



Paul

[64 f100]

Wallymart no longer is giving any guarantee on their batteries. I just heard this a couple days ago.
Rich

[Toyz]

Walmart website still states 3 year free replacement plus 2 year pro-rated on Everstart. Maxx.
Paul

[DM66FE482]

Good stuff guys.

[Michael Bryce Winnick]

I have 3 cars with Optima deep cycles (yellow top). I have not bought a battery in over 10 years. I use battery tenders always.

I ran one dead ONE time. Charged it on the lowest setting I had. All was well. Deep cycle batteries take a long time to charge.

[Toyz]

That is the best approach for ANY battery. My problem is not with my older Optimas, which have provided exceptional life. My problem and concern is with the newer versions, oh, say, since Johnson Controls took over. They are one of the biggest battery manufacturers, and I suspect economies of scale have set in!
Paul

[R Pope]

The only Optima I have, the top post doesn't make connection. Still works side post, though. The top posts don't seem to be very strong, it twists back and forth real easy when you put the cable on it. Oh, well, GM's need batteries too.