[AT] Battery Charger recommendations

[John Hall]

Don't get cheap--buy the most heavy duty one you can afford. Mine is a 
John Deere that is about 30 years old. It has 1 setting for 6 volt, 2 
for 12 volt, and then a boost setting. It has gauges, no lights. We've 
used it a million times it seems. As to current models, I have no idea 
what to recommend, you may want to see what Napa has to offer as well. 
I'm sure Snap-On and Mac have good ones, but with a price to match.

John Hall


On 4/23/2016 12:17 AM, Dean VP wrote:
> I need to buy a new battery charger. Both of the ones I have had for many,
> many years, one for over 40 years,  have gone South for the winter and never
> came back.  Since I have several tractors here, a diesel truck, auto  and
> several Garden tractors  and some other battery driven devises I'm thinking
> of going whole hog and buying a Heavy Duty one in the neighborhood of
> chagrining up to 250 Amps for starting.  That requires a roll around unit.
> I've looked at Schumacher and Sears Units.  The Sears Diehard unit is
> presently on top of the list primarily due to features and good reviews. I
> was first thinking of Schumacher but there are more negative reviews about
> them than what I ever expected. Primarily quality control issues.  Then as
> an alternative I think of getting two smaller units one for the shop and one
> for the three car
> garage.   But having a HD unit sure sounds attractive to me.
>
>   What has been your experiences out there with Battery chargers and
> especially those I have mentioned?  Or do you have something else to
> recommend?
>
> My specs are up to 250 Amp Maximum for starting, then a choice of something
> like 50, 10 selectable charge rates and 2 Amp maintenance charging.
> Automatic in that it will drop to maintenance charging when the battery is
> fully charged automatically.  Need both 6 and 12 Volt charging. Would prefer
> analog gauges rather than idiot lights. Charge Timer not required if
> automatic is properly designed.  Fairly rugged as it will get beat up
> bouncing around the equipment and tractors.  Reverse lead protection and
> notification. Don't remember ever doing that but.....  Decently long heavy
> gauge leads with heavy good quality clamps. And a target under $200 cost
>
> Dean VP
> Snohomish, WA 98290
>
> It's better to be judged by 12 than carried by 6.
>
>
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