Dead batteries...
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Cargo Master
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 2,571
Likes: 55
Dead batteries...
Second time since I've had the truck (original owner). Researching options. While I'm at it I just thought I'd chime in here again. I haven't posted in a long time. I'm still around. Truck is up over 141,000 miles now, still going strong.. aside from the batteries.
I'm trying to think - I replaced these about 3 years ago, died in the winter time. I just used the factory motorcraft batteries but recall looking in to what to replace them with back then also. Not sure at the end of the day if it is worth upgrading, but I sure would like to get a set that will last a long time and won't die if I let them drain too far (what happened this round and can't get them back).
Post Fiend
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 19,311
Likes: 97
From: Waterloo, Iowa
Have never owned anything with dual batteries but I'd want an external charger capable of charging both of them at a 10% or 20% amp hour rate. 15 or 20 amps should be a nice "slow" charge - not to fast, not too slow. Bill Darden at the Batteryfaq website argues it's better to buy an inexpensive battery and a good charger than an expensive battery and neglect it.
Lead Driver
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 6,676
Likes: 913
From: Milford, MI
Mine failed whem i tested them after an alternator wiring issue a year and half ago. Used some Auto zone AGMs (platinum series i think). So far so good. Not gonna say they are the best, but the warrenty is long enough that i know the next set will be pro rated. 
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Cargo Master
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 2,571
Likes: 55
Im going to try Optima yellow tops group D34/78's and see what happens this round.. Hope the quality is OK, 3 year warranty. Paying full price but it is what it is... hopefully they are good quality.
Laughing Gas
Joined: May 2017
Posts: 969
Likes: 30
Originally Posted by KC8QVO
Im going to try Optima yellow tops group D34/78's and see what happens this round.. Hope the quality is OK, 3 year warranty. Paying full price but it is what it is... hopefully they are good quality.
Mountain Pass
Joined: Oct 2017
Posts: 107
Likes: 15
Bosch AGM Platinum batteries are EXCELLENT. They are the same exact battery (rebranded) as the NorthStar which are $350-400ea.
anything that is AGM is probably your best bet. There are a few forums/threads around that show 2-3 main companies that supply the batteries. The Yellow top aren't what they used to be and generally are suggested to be avoided.
I got my BOSCH Platinum for $145. They generally run about $200 ea.
anything that is AGM is probably your best bet. There are a few forums/threads around that show 2-3 main companies that supply the batteries. The Yellow top aren't what they used to be and generally are suggested to be avoided.
I got my BOSCH Platinum for $145. They generally run about $200 ea.
Super Moderator
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 37,379
Likes: 1,862
From: Frederick, MD
Wondering if something is wrong here. My 2013 still has the original batteries in it with no issues.
Steve, are you running the batteries way down in the field and then driving the truck to recharge them?
Steve, are you running the batteries way down in the field and then driving the truck to recharge them?
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Postmaster
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 3,595
Likes: 0
From: Utah County, UT
Last pickup, I went with two red tops, back in May of ‘14, didn’t have any issue. If you can find the Bosch’s For 150ish, I’d go that route. AGM makes a difference if you travel a lot of bumpy roads. Unfortunately, Optima is hit or miss on quality these days...
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Laughing Gas
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 832
Likes: 110
A lot depends upon option levels. Remote start is always looking for a signal and thus drains a battery faster than an old clock. Ditto for simple remote door unlock fob. Then there is the auto mirror/seat adjustment when you open door with two different remotes. And radio and internet staying live until you open the doors. And lights staying on for 30-60 seconds after you exit. Corrosion on battery terminals, even a shorter life. Smart charger solar panel on roof may fix all of this, but it costs as much as one battery.
Lead Driver
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 5,613
Likes: 9
From: Flagstaff, Arizona
My 7.3 I just sold, had two red top Optima's that were 7 years old, and still great performance. My 6.7 has Motorcrafts from March this year, we'll see how they hold up with winch, lights, & stereo!
Hotshot
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 11,591
Likes: 14
From: Pflugerville, tx
the batteries in my 2012 just died yesterday.. 5 yrs, 10 days since new
5th Wheeling
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 44
Likes: 15
From: Mesa
Battery life is also defendant on location of your truck.
Here in Phoenix AZ, you are lucky to get 3 years.
Doesn't matter the brand.
Heat kills batteries.
My wife's last car had the battery in the trunk, lasted 5 years.
Here in Phoenix AZ, you are lucky to get 3 years.
Doesn't matter the brand.
Heat kills batteries.
My wife's last car had the battery in the trunk, lasted 5 years.
Rather Be Floatin
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 2,468
Likes: 0
From: Marble Falls, Tx.
Lead Driver
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 6,600
Likes: 84
I don't have great success with batteries either. I replaced my 47 month old DieHard Platinum AGM group 65's two weeks ago. They began to fail in April but it warmed up and they were fine all summer but couldn't handle the 30°F mornings this past month. I decided to go with Interstate MTP-65's this time. The Interstate AGM's were more than I wanted to spend on batteries. This is my third set.
Hotshot
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 13,834
Likes: 25
From: Middle Tn.
Bottom line in my opinion is if you travel get your batteries from a national chain. If the best battery takes a dump and the closest distributor is 100 miles away, your screwed. If you never leave your home base get Joe Blow’s that gave you the best price.