Time for new batteries? Update

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Dec 28, 2013 | 01:15 PM

amdriven2liv

Thread Starter

I'm hitting easy street

Joined: Nov 2009

Posts: 6,395

Likes: 27

From: Central Oregon

Time for new batteries? Update

I'm thinking my 4+ year old batteries need replacing. What do you think? I've been doing some shopping this morning.

Dec 28, 2013 | 03:45 PM

the_auto_tech

Posting Guru

Joined: Oct 2012

Posts: 1,777

Likes: 4

From: Des Moines, IA

Generally it's regarded a set of batteries only lasts about 2-3 years in these trucks. From the looks of it I'd say you're due for a new set.

Dec 28, 2013 | 03:55 PM

jswartz84

Cargo Master

Joined: Jun 2007

Posts: 2,723

Likes: 5

From: Roseburg, OR

My factory Motorcraft batteries lasted 8 years, when it was time to replace them I went back with OEM. What brand are you using?

Dec 28, 2013 | 04:33 PM

Pete_H

Senior User

Joined: Jul 2002

Posts: 111

Likes: 1

From: Palm Harbor , Florida

Besides the evidence from the gauges, the sound of that startup makes me want to drive to walmart for a battery exchange. Every 18 months or so mine sounds just like that.

Dec 28, 2013 | 05:45 PM

mhoefer

Postmaster

Joined: Jan 2005

Posts: 4,424

Likes: 12

From: BC Canada

What is the specific gravity measurement of each cell? Volts are not really telling you the complete story, low volts could be from alternator not working properly, the other is to load test separately. One bad cell out of both batteries will get you this lower voltage and likely won't allow full charging from the alternator either. Alternatively,p if the SGs are good in every cell, then you are going to need to look at alternator charging volts, should be 14.4 at first start, should go up to 14.8 as glow plugs shut off. If it's not hitting 14.8 volts on the alternator charge cable you have an alternator problem, until you solve this your taking a toll on the FICM, though your FICM is looking good now, the more starts at the low voltage he possibility of damage. If you do need an alternator, go with the Ford upgraded 140 amp at minimum, better still a DC power or higher amperage which will charge the batteries up better! protect the FICM.

Dec 28, 2013 | 07:26 PM

Mich6.0

More Turbo

Joined: Feb 2005

Posts: 574

Likes: 3

From: Grand Rapids,MI

The amp draw on these engines during start are high and batteries should be replaced before four years to protect the FICM. You might get longer life in warmer area's of the US due to limited glow plug use.

Dec 28, 2013 | 07:38 PM

69cj

Hotshot

Joined: Jul 2005

Posts: 13,834

Likes: 26

From: Middle Tn.

Quote:

Originally Posted by mhoefer

Totally disagree with that. Have never had more than 13.8 on the stock alternator, still original, and still original FICM with no problems. Everything stock.

Dec 29, 2013 | 01:05 AM

amdriven2liv

Thread Starter

I'm hitting easy street

Joined: Nov 2009

Posts: 6,395

Likes: 27

From: Central Oregon

Would never have noticed this issue if it were not for having a monitoring system of some sort in the truck.

Another reason to have something!

Dec 30, 2013 | 01:12 PM

#10

amdriven2liv

Thread Starter

I'm hitting easy street

Joined: Nov 2009

Posts: 6,395

Likes: 27

From: Central Oregon

Got new Batteries for the truck.

Here is the start,

Interstate Batteries.

Product ID: MTP-65
Cranking Amps: 1000
Cold Cranking Amps: 850
Voltage: 12
Capacity: 85
Termination: Common Code A
Weight: 45.4
Width: 7.5
Length: 12.00
Height: 7.50
Plates: 24
WET/DRY: W

$113.95 +tax for each.

Dec 30, 2013 | 03:43 PM

#11

One Cylinder

Junior User

Joined: Oct 2013

Posts: 97

Likes: 1

From: Jasper, Texas

I like replacing my batteries with Die Hards due to;
Usually a better product than OEM
Sears Auto Centers in all major cities
Opened 7 days and until 9pm.