On Mon, 14 Feb 2011 09:30:38 -0600, Ignoramus14196
wrote:

On 2011-02-14, John wrote:
Ignoramus9135 wrote:
On 2011-02-14, wrote:
Ignoramus9135 wrote:
My truck battery is dying, and I was wondering if there is such as
thing as a "better battery", or are they all created the same. Thnks


How old is it?


John

2-3 years old


That's just beyond the warranty period, like all of wally-marts
batteries do.

First check the voltage coming out of the alternator at a higher than
idle engine rpm.

It should be no more than 14.2 volts. If it is than that is the reason
the battery is failing.

John, it is below that, I have a voltmeter on my dash.

So, what is the word on gel cell batteries?

i

Gel cell batteries are just lead-acid batteries that have the
electrolyte gelled by adding silica-gel (I think). As they are sealed
batteries they should be charged at a lower voltage to avoid over
heating which could cause excessive gassing and high pressure inside
the sealed case.

Trojan Batteries recommends a maximum charging voltage of 2.35 - 2.40
per cell or 14.1 - 14.4 volts for a 12 volt battery..

While I cannot quote references, my experience is that few, if any,
common automobile alternators will produce a higher voltage then is
safe for a gel-cell.

As an aside - a gel cell's real advantage is that if you turn them
upside down they don't leak acid all over your new levis.