Of all the people who buy batteries, nobody owns more than the toyhauler crowd. We have them in our tow vehicles, toyhaulers, and even in the toys we love to play with. The two most important issues with batteries are reliability and longevity, but, depending on where you’re located in the U.S., your results can be drastically different. Heat, cold, and vibration are at the top of the list when it comes to shortening the life of your power pack. Looking at several different types of options, it’s really difficult to separate the vast majority of batteries from each other. In fact, if you removed the labels it would be nearly impossible to tell them apart. However, one manufacturer has separated itself from the rest of the pack. Of course, we’re talking about Optima batteries. Optima has several claims to fame which begin with the obvious design of the case, itself. This shape allows them to house their patented “Spiral Cell” technology, which gives these batteries the ability to handle up to 15 times the vibration of a normal battery, according to their tech department. (I can think of some UTV’s that may find that useful.)
They also claim to have some other interesting statistics regarding their batteries. The RV/Marine lines are able to receive around 350 discharge and re-charge cycles compared with as few as 100 from many of their competitors. They can also run down to empty while still providing a full 12 volts. This means your power won’t start to fade as the battery runs down. One other truly unique feature is the ability to mount Optima batteries just about anywhere, in any direction, or at any angle. Since they are maintenance free there is virtually no possibility for acid to be released. We can think of all kinds of custom applications where that ability would really be beneficial. Off-road vehicles come to mind as well as toyhaulers or boats where space is limited, but you might want to add more batteries to the bank without having to change the factory location of what you already have on-board.
Cranking amps is another important task of the battery system. Although cold cranking amps are much more necessary for our Midwest and East Coast readers, where weather can be downright chilly, anyone with a diesel is also in need of a powerful jolt to fire the engine. Optima claims to beat all comers in this category, also. Below, we have provided some graphs of life and power expectancies you should realize from an Optima battery up-grade.
If have any questions or need more information for your specific application, you can reach Optima at 888-8OPTIMA or visit them online at www.optimabatteries.com.
-THM
