When to replace batteries
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Junior User
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 82
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When to replace batteries
Just wondering... When should I replace the batteries in my truck? I was not sure if there was a recommended time to do that or not... I have heard having weak batteries can cause damage to other components... As far as I know I am running my stock batteries... What do you guys think? I am nopt having any trouble starting my truck or anything... I just dont like crap to happen that I can not prevent... 
Thanks in advance guys!
Thanks in advance guys!
Mountain Pass
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 119
Likes: 2
From: Calgary, Alberta
I dont believe in replacing the batteries for the sake of it. Have your batteries load tested, that should give you an idea on how healthy they are and if they should be replaced. Hope that helps.
Logistics Pro
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 3,616
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I have a 2004....I have replaced the alternator twice and the batteries once in 7 years. A healthy alternator, tight/ CLEAN cables (grounds included) and occasional battery maintenance (unless sealed) will guarantee years of service. I went as far as installing a VOLTS gauge. Some people on this site asked why, but I'll tell you what....I can see the charge output all day long and it helped catch a regulator going bad this last time I changed my alternator and caught it before a camping trip with mt trailer behind me.
Logistics Pro
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 3,673
Likes: 6
I have a 2004....I have replaced the alternator twice and the batteries once in 7 years. A healthy alternator, tight/ CLEAN cables (grounds included) and occasional battery maintenance (unless sealed) will guarantee years of service. I went as far as installing a VOLTS gauge. Some people on this site asked why, but I'll tell you what....I can see the charge output all day long and it helped catch a regulator going bad thislast time I changed my alternator.
I took one of my batterys out of my truck for the boat, when I put it back in the truck I didnt realize I forgot to tighten down the cables....
Well, my truck started cranking really slow slow, so I took both side cables off, cleaned them, then made sure they were really tight. been good ever since, actually been cranking at a surprisingly fast speed.
Hotshot
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 13,834
Likes: 26
From: Middle Tn.
Make sure they are fully charged and isolated from each other when tested other wise the test is invalid. If one battery shows weak replace both. Always in pairs.
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Elder User
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Logistics Pro
Joined: May 2004
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Under normal circumstances batteries are replaced in pairs....unless ofcourse there is a defect in one of the batteries and it had to be replaced prematurely. Basically use the brakes analogy.....do you ever replace only one side of your brakes if they were installed at the same time and one side is worn more than the other?
Hotshot
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 13,834
Likes: 26
From: Middle Tn.
A good borderline battery will drag down a new battery to its level and thus diminish its service life. A little more expensive up front but a money saver in the long run. Especially if low voltage, and it defintily can, takes out your ficm. That's roughly a thousand dollar part.
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