NewXJaddict

This isnt really tech (I don't think) but not really chat either. Just wanted to know the best way to charge a dead battery with a battery charger.

The one I borroed has a 2amp 10amp and 50amp setting. My XJ is currently not actually starting so I just need to charge it so ill be able to try starting it as I progress further into trying to solve the problem I have been having. Unfortunately it will be plugged in to a normal household socket. I just don't want to blow up the battery, the jeep, the charger or the house.

I know this sounds to some like a silly question but I have never actually used one of these things before so I want to be safe about it and do it the right way.

Thanks!

OverlandZJ

The 50 amp would be for starting a dead batt i think..

Mine has a 10 and 2amp selection, 10 amps for a few hours should be enough to fully charge. Check your water level before you charge.

Use dilluted water to top of cells.. not totally full.

zedpapa

i would let it charge on the 2-amp setting for 8-10 hours. i would check it every couple hours to make voltage isn't going too high. voltage should not get above 15.5 volts. i think batteries like to charge at about 13 volts. also watch the battery for overheating or boiling the acid, both signs of a bad battery. if you can, take the battery somewhere to get tested after you charge it. the parts store will usually test them for free.

zedpapa

NewXJaddict

Thanks a bunch. If I ever get this thing started back up and on the road Ill be sure to have the battery tested.

Koda6966

Some parts stores will even charge them for a small fee.

96_xj

most do it for free.... all of the major 4 around my house are free to charge them... but if you cant get there then whats the point..

also 2 amp setting 13-14 volts nothing more, watch temp and over night it, just like posted above.

NewXJaddict

I just had the thought too. To charge it doesn't even need to be in the vehicle right? Instead of running a huge extension cord out through my driveway I can just pull the battery out and charge it.

Koda6966

Yep.

91 limited owner

Yep, but set it on a board or something. For some reason setting them on concrete (for long periods of time) sucks the life out of them.

Koda6966

And keep it out of the sun if you can.

89Laredo

trickle charged it (2a). I dont know if keeping it in the house is a good idea, if you have a shed or something use that. You have to remember that charging batteries releases hydrogen and other wonderful gasses.

NewXJaddict

Thanks for all the info. I got it done. Took it out of the jeep and set it outside in the shade. Used 10A for a few hours and got the job done without blowing up myself, the battery, the house or the charger.