Good alternatives to AGM battery

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That's about the best option, TBH. The AGM is the top tier technology for regular consumer vehicles. You could try an Optima Red Top but I doubt it would last any longer or have any real benefit over a regular AGM.

Sorry braj.
 
To me, the advantage isn't the alleged added longevity....it's the fact that for an offroad vehicle, it is a lot more robust and you don't have to worry about leaking acid in the event of a rollover.

YMMV though....all depends on your use.
 
Meh not even looking for AGM. I have a V meter so unless the battery shorts internally I will see it's demise coming. I had also heard AGM are not great in high heat which under my hood in the desert.... is hot!
:)
C
 
Clifford said:
Meh not even looking for AGM. I have a V meter so unless the battery shorts internally I will see it's demise coming. I had also heard AGM are not great in high heat which under my hood in the desert.... is hot!
:)
C
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I live in Phx.....so I know what you're talking about in terms of heat. The bigger issue is that offroading can jar the battery and short the cells in a lead acid battery easier (allegedly) than AGM.

But, if that's not a priority for you....get what suits your needs.
 
Sean K. said:
To me, the advantage isn't the alleged added longevity....it's the fact that for an offroad vehicle, it is a lot more robust and you don't have to worry about leaking acid in the event of a rollover.

YMMV though....all depends on your use.
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That's the big one there. Also AGM's have a low internal resistance so they can take more amps on a charge, and not "boil off" like a LA battery. I've seen more than one alternator die trying to keep up with a winch and a LA battery.

LiIon batteries show promise, but they're hell-expensive and well, they've been known to explode or catch fire. I'm looking to shave weight wherever possible and still have functionality, so two small AGM's with an isolator/combiner seem to make the most sense right now.
 
Good points all around. If I was flush I'd just buy another DieHard (Optimas=MEX) or splurge on LiFePo but I have to live on the cheap right now. I'll do some shopping and see what I come up with.
I can always depend on these forums to get good user experience- cheers.
C
 
I have a Northstar AGM, it's a bad mofo. No issues going on 3yrs now, has a 5 year no questions asked no cost replacement warranty and another 2 years prorated. Not to mention it's dual purpose and has a ridiculously long run time for lights and accessories without the motor running, accidentally left the key in acc all night radio on (but not playing) and ac fan blowing low, still started in the morning.
 
Sorry but a voltmeter doesn't tell you anything about the batteries ability to provide amperage. It's amps that turn the starter over, not volts.
 
Clifford said:
Whoa those Northstar batteries are pricey. Make the Sears AGM look thrifty!
:)
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You get what you pay for. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

I got a small rebate on it and I was sold when they said even if I melt it to the ground from winching they'll still honour their warranty. I figure if they full on expect it to last 7 years even in harsh conditions I might get 10 out of it and all the benefits in the mean time make it worth it for me. Plus if I use the warranty even once I am way ahead of the game!

Buy once cry once and forget it for a good long while.
 
csp said:
Sorry but a voltmeter doesn't tell you anything about the batteries ability to provide amperage. It's amps that turn the starter over, not volts.
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Tells you nothing?? Ya right!
A 5 year old battery unable to hold approx 12.6V and leveling at 12.2 (approx 60%) is going south. I do not need a load tester to tell me that. The 30W solar panel and charge controller have always kept it charged regardless of short trips or extended time without use. But if you want to trade me one at 12.6 for mine at 12.2 I'm game!
:)
Clifford
 
Troybylt said:
You get what you pay for. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
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Yaaaa but I have no winch or compressors and just need a good battery. Mine lasted 5 years, had a 4yr warranty and cost about $100 less. Now there is a 20% off as well for Columbus day so I'm leaning more towards same. I do not see platinum anymore though they may have gotten rid of that line.
Good to know about that brand though thanks again.
C
 
Clifford said:
Tells you nothing?? Ya right!
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Did I actually use the word "nothing"?

Your voltmeter isn't telling you that your 12.2v battery could be sulfated and possibly can be de-sulfated and brought back to life.

Notice the use of the word could, just in case you want to mis-state what was really said again. ;)
 
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csp said:
Did I actually use the word "nothing"?

Your voltmeter isn't telling you that your 12.2v battery could be sulfated and possibly can be de-sulfated and brought back to life.

Notice the use of the word could, just in case you want to mis-state what was really said again. ;)
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Yawn. No you actually said "doesn't tell you anything". Big, er I mean NO difference. Not interested in trying to squeak out more life from a 5yo battery so I can go 40 miles into the desert and keep my fingers crossed.
 
Have you tried a battery charger (not just a trickle solar charger)? Often it's just because the alternator is only maintaining the battery, not charging it up to full capacity.
 
My next battery will be a Walmart Ever Start Maxx, $100, 5 year warranty & made by Johnson Controls. I've had one in my Accord for 3 years now with no issues.
 
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