[BC] Winter Survival Gear

[Craig Healy]

> Any lead acid battery suffers permanent damage if discharged below
> about 80% charge. Automotive batteries more-so than so-called
> deep cycle as they simply don't have the reserve lead in them.
> Lead acid stands over-charge very well, PROVIDED the plates are
> not allowed to dry out at all, but they do not like discharge.

The common brands can be a problem and occasionally simply die with no 
warning.  In my Blazer I have two batteries, both charged through a 
commercial charge isolator box connected to the alternator.  That way if I 
need to jump, it only takes one cable.

For batteries I use Optima brands.  There are different models.  Red Top is 
for normal vehicle or generator use.  Yellow Top is a deep cycle battery, 
but can be used in a vehicle.  Blue Top is marine.  At one of my clients I 
swapped a dead common battery for a used Optima Red Top.  It's worked for 
years.  The Optima type doesn't self-discharge as much as the more common 
types.

If they physically fit, I'd recommend them.  I've never had a failure and I 
do swap them every four or five years.

Craig Healy
Providence, RI