Fullriver Sealed Battery

[Pete Masterson]

If the AGM installation was exactly the same in power and weight as
the Sam's golf cart battery (SGCB), then the higher cost might not
result in enough benefit to be "worth it." However, all aspects
aren't _exactly_ equal. Similar size AGMs will have more amp-hour
potential than the SGCB so you're getting more power for some of the
extra money. AGMs also have the potential, if well cared for, to give
somewhat longer service life. Finally, the reduced maintenance
requirement for AGM must be factored in. Personally, I very much
appreciate that I only have to check the display on my Link 2000R
controller (that the previous owner so generously installed) and not
have to fuss with watering batteries or worrying about the charger
boiling them and ruining them. I also appreciate the relatively quick
recharge cycle -- it means running the generator for a shorter time
when not attached to a power source.

When the time comes for me to replace the AGMs in my coach, I'll
certainly consider SGCB vs. AGM and make my decision based on the
convenience and my perception of value for the investment at the
time. And, that's about the same equation you'll need to calculate
for yourself. If you're frequently off the grid, then you might
appreciate the extra amp-hour potential of AGMs but if you are mostly
connected to shore power, then (assuming good charger management and
a semi-automated watering system) the SGCB or some other flood-type
battery may be completely suitable. Please understand that what's
right for one isn't necessarily the best choice for another. Much
depends on your fastidiousness with checking the condition of the
batteries (if not "maintenance free"), with your charger (a 3-stage
charger is preferred), and with your off-grid needs.

I note that the previous owner installed 6-6 volt deep cycle AGMs for
the house (wired to generate 12 v) and 3-12 volt (wired parallel)
AGMs for the engine. These are all Deka brand and, if you want, I can
get the model numbers for you -- but you may need a different model
to fit your 'bird.

Pete Masterson
aeonix1@...
'95 Blue Bird Wanderlodge WBDA 42'
El Sobrante, CA




On Nov 29, 2006, at 12:42 PM, one_dusty_hoot wrote:

> Holy Toledo Brittles!, did you write the book on AGM's?
> Ok, what's your take on this as appled to AGM batteries?
>
> My coach has 6-6V. deep cycle batteries wired in a series
> parallel combination for a nominal 12 VDC. According to
> what I have read, I understand that the coach and starting
> batteries should be independant of one another in that the
> starting battery requires high current for a short period
> while the house batteries require low current for a long
> period. Mine are all together doing both functions.
>
> Will the AGM stand up to what the generic, buy at Sams,
> golf cart look alike will preform?
>
> I understand that ALL batteries are good for "X" number of
> charge cycles, that's it, so the bottom line is performance
> and performace is how much you receive for how much you spend.
>
> Are the AGM's competetive against the $60 Sams in the above
> dual application?
> TIA
> Bob Janes, Greenville, SC
>
> <snip>



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