chametzoo
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1960 Mobile Scout
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Post by chametzoo on Apr 19, 2023 12:01:59 GMT -8
Hi All,
I am currently in need of 2 six volt golf cart batteries set up in series (12V) for my 1960 Mobile Scout. I restored the trailer in 2015 and at that time the entire electrical system was remade from scratch, into a primarily 12V system with a Progressive Dynamics converter and battery charge maintainer. At the time, I used the US Batteries brand [220 AH]. They served me well and lasted 8 years. They were optimally maintained and always charged to the correct levels. I've been in search of another US Batteries units, but at a somewhat higher AH rating... the 280 AH model is the highest AH that will still fit into the battery location in the trailer. Problem is: 1) I live in northern NM and it seems that none of the distributors in Albuquerque can locate a couple for me... and they cost a fortune to ship from other places (at 70 lbs+ each). I've also looked at Trojan and found the same problem. One brand, Duracell, is much more widely available.
Have any of you had experiences with Duracell for your 12V (2 X 6V) needs? They seem to cost marginally less than the other two brands. I have not been able to determine where they are made.
Thanks
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Post by vikx on Apr 19, 2023 12:31:30 GMT -8
You might check with golf cart dealerships. A short camping trip to pick them up??
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chametzoo
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1960 Mobile Scout
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Post by chametzoo on Apr 19, 2023 13:07:58 GMT -8
You might check with golf cart dealerships. A short camping trip to pick them up?? I like the way you think Vikx. To a vintage trailer owner... everything looks like a potential camping trip! 
Now that I am looking at Duracell, I located a dealer in Santa Fe with a couple of 250 AH at about $175 each with core trade in. So I may end up doing that. I figure if I continue to optimally maintain my batteries, any of the major brands will have longevity.
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chametzoo
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1960 Mobile Scout
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Post by chametzoo on Apr 20, 2023 16:20:23 GMT -8
Another more general battery question:
Let's say I am putting two 6V golf cart batteries in series, to produce 12V. The manufacturer's amp hour rating at 25A is 230. The rated "minutes of discharged" @ 25A is 448 minutes. Is all of the 448 minutes usable or is it only half of that, since that is the discharge limit that you can go to with a lead acid battery? Thanks, Mike
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chametzoo
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Post by chametzoo on Apr 21, 2023 9:18:10 GMT -8
Since I've changed topics from the subject line... I'll post my last question as a new TOPIC.
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Post by vikx on Apr 21, 2023 11:08:43 GMT -8
Have you considered the new LiPo batteries? Save a lot of weight and are well thought of...
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tincanalley
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1958 Jewel
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Post by tincanalley on Apr 21, 2023 19:41:54 GMT -8
Second the vote for LiPo battery, less weight smaller package.
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chametzoo
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Post by chametzoo on Apr 22, 2023 9:02:49 GMT -8
Second the vote for LiPo battery, less weight smaller package. Well... As of yesterday I've invested again in 2x 6V lead acid batteries. Without a doubt, my next battery will be Lithium. I'm familiar with the type you mention, but they are a bit chintzy with the amp hours. For the weight, I'm getting 230 AH with my 2 six's for $300. (Saving money in the short term... instead of in the long term with Lithiums  .) Also, Lithiums are vulnerable to damage when charging in cold weather. I know there are premium brands that have there own internal (heat) temperature controls to avoid that. |
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roadtripper
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Post by roadtripper on May 11, 2023 11:29:20 GMT -8
I started out with 2 golf cart type. Later switched to AGM.
Recently splurged on a 100ah lithium rated for cold weather. I love this thing. 1/3 the weight, 1/2 the space, available power equals the 2 6v, charges faster, blue tooth to your phone to tell you details. But they are pricey. Got it to use in pick up camper when not towing. So light I just swap it back and forth.
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.) Also, Lithiums are vulnerable to damage when charging in cold weather. I know there are premium brands that have there own internal (heat) temperature controls to avoid that.