[TheOtherLeft]

I'm looking for a new battery for my GV. It's a 2002 and I think it's the original battery.

I'm getting way too confused with the different types available and benefits of each one.

Is it better to go with the original "wet" cell or an AGM of similar size/capacity. I think Gel cells aren't very good for general driving purposes.

I don't run a fridge atm but I may want to in future.

Is it possible to fit a larger battery tray and hence a larger (next size up) battery or will a bigger battery/tray not physically fit in the space.


The problem I have now is that it takes about 12 goes to start it in the morning. The radio/lights still work and I can hear the click from the starter motor. My volt meter states 12V when ACC is on only and when I am driving I get about 14.2V so I know the alternator is good. Hence I think the battery is not holding charge over night. I might give the starter motor a tap with the hammer or clean with some circuit board cleaner in case there is gunk stuck inside, but I'm thinking it's the battery due to the low charge in the morning and the age of the battery.

[royce]

normally if you get a lot of clicks then it winds over its a starter problem, but with the age of the battery it could be a little bit of both

if you plan on running a fridge you really need dual batteries which is a bit hard in a GV, a normal wet cell would be fine for starting duties or you could go to an AGM which will give you a bit more reserve and *may* let you get away with running a fridge overnight (very very dodgy though)

[TheOtherLeft]

Will heat affect the starter because when I restart it after driving (and even leaving it for a couple of hours at work) it'll start first time?

The problem only occurs in the morning (ie first start up) which is why I think it's the battery as it might lose charge overnight.

Does Inox battery conditioner work?

[royce]

heat can help to free the starter up sometimes, you would really need to get a multimeter onto the battery of a morning, without cranking you really want to see over 12.5 volts and cranking (or trying) about 11.6v, and make sure all the connections are clean and tight

I have seen inox help but seen it do nothign too, really depends what kiled the battery

[cj_zuki]

Ben,

Clean and check that all your connections good. If that doesn't alter anything I'd say your battery is on it's way. Most places will check them for free. Given the age of it it is not a surprise really. This time of year particularly on cold mornings like we have been having will start to show it's weakness. Get a new one especially if you are coming on the snow trip. I know that they are expensive but I love my Optima. Steve is a big fan of them too ...and Mitch and.......all the others that are running them in the Club.

[ODA1]

i took out the 8inch batt and popped in a 10inch in the plastic tray, but if you get rid of the platic you could fit a N70.

[TheOtherLeft]

Seems like it's the battery. Had a look inside and all of the plates are showing signs of sulfation badly and were at an angle. I think corrugations etc have had their toll.

Since I don't run a winch or a fridge I don't think an AGM is justified.

Has anyone had experience with Exide Extremes? Looking at the N50 size which is 260mm long. Even though they aren'y AGMs they still use a glass matrix?? The only issue is that it isn't sealed so may leak but at least it can be topped up easily.