optima battery opinions...

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Apr 27, 2010 | 03:28 PM

#16

zr2toxj

Senior Member

Joined: Dec 2008

Posts: 532

Likes: 1

From: Leeds, Maine

Year: 1999

Model: Cherokee

Engine: 4.0

Some of the problems might be from improper charging. I'll admit I was guilty of this when I got my yellow top. I realized I wasn't doing it long enough:

OPTIMA YELLOWTOP CHARGING INFORMATION
OPTIMA YellowTop Charging Information
The following charging methods are recommended to insure a long battery life - always use a
voltage-regulated charger, with voltage limits set as described below.

YellowTop Type:

D51 & D51R - D35 - D75/25 - D34 - D34/78

These batteries are dual-purpose. They are designed for engine start and cyclic applications and
for use in vehicles with large accessory loads.
Recommended charging information:
Alternator:
��

13.65 to 15.0 volts, no amperage limit.

Battery Charger:
��

13.8 to 15.0 volts, 10 amps maximum, 6-12 hours approximate.

Cyclic Applications:
��

14.7 volts, no current limit as long as battery temperature remains below 125°F (51.7°

C). When current falls below 1 amp, finish with 2 amp constant current for 1 hour.

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).

All limits must be strictly adhered to.
Safety Information:
��

Always wear safety glasses when working with batteries.

��

Always use a voltage regulated battery charger with limits set to the above ratings.

Overcharging can cause the safety valves to open and battery gasses to escape,
resulting in premature failure. These gasses are flammable! You cannot replace water
in sealed batteries that have been overcharged. Any battery that becomes very hot or
makes a hissing sound while recharging should be disconnected immediately.

��

Failure to fully charge a battery can result in poor performance and a reduction in

capacity.

COMMERCIAL YELLOWTOP CHARGING INFORMATION
OPTIMA Commercial YellowTop Charging Information
YellowTop Type:

D31A & D31T

These batteries are dual purpose. They are designed for engine start and deep-cycle applications
for use in vehicles with large accessory loads.
Recommended charging information:
Alternator:
��

13.65 to 15.0 volts, no amperage limit.

Optima Products Battery Selector Buy an Optima Product Support Stories & Testimonials News & Events Contact Us

Apr 27, 2010 | 04:18 PM

#17

UserID6095

Newbie

Joined: May 2009

Posts: 3

Likes: 2

Model: Cherokee

The problems with Opto's started when they moved production to Mexico. Just food for thought. I would say go through a local vendor so you can return it to them.

Apr 27, 2010 | 04:27 PM

#18

mike albo

CF Veteran

Joined: Mar 2009

Posts: 8,712

Likes: 2

From: Loomis,California

Year: 1987

Model: Cherokee

Engine: 242 inline six

I don't have the Optima battery, I do how ever have the Excide Select Orbital battery just like the Optima.My first one lasted eight years,am on my second one now.They come with a liftime replacement warranty also.