Starting the solar set up.

[SternWake]

Curious as to how they 'recondition' an AGM battery.

Lifeline AGM has a 'conditioning' charge which is similar to an equalizing charge on a flooded battery.

Page 20:
http://www.lifelinebatteries.com/manual.pdf


One of the best battery manufacturer PDF's out there.


An EQ cycle restores the battery back to its maximum REMAINING capacity, but does not restore lost capacity.
If these AGMs were just exposed to an intensive charging cycle with higher voltages and someone to monitor temperature, then
I would not expect these AGMs to come close to their stated capacity, but for the price you should still get some good use from them.

 

[GotSmart]

Lots of great information in that pdf.

Since I am on an extreme budget, this was the best way to get the most bang for my buck. I will be starting a savings to replace those. I have no delusions that this will last the 5 to 7 years that new units in ideal conditions would. If I get 2 years, I am money ahead. Buying anything used is a gamble.

 

[Zil]

In the early years of the 20th century, they would disassemble batteries, wash out the cases, replace and reassemble the plates and spacers, swap individual cells, reseal the cases, fill with cleaned or new acid, then recharge the unit. That was reconditioning a battery.
today they put a heavy charge and hope things work out.
Used Battery is the correct label.

 

[highdesertranger]

don't know if they still do it, but as late as the 1980's I know of companies that were still doing it that way. highdesertranger

 

[akrvbob]

Normally they are about $240 each so you got a smokin deal!! You can't really go wrong! My Full River AGMs are blue, I wonder what the diffference is.
Bob

 

[GotSmart]

After asking questions from the GM on the phone today, I found the batch I got had come in from MODOT. They were running the signs that you see in construction zones. MODOT changes out the batteries every 2 years, which is why they had around 40 on their shelves. At $60 each including core and tax, they are tempting. I just have so much space, and so much in the budget.

 

[akrvbob]

Generally those signs are hooked up to a solar panel and so there is a very good chance they led a very good life with few cycles. Automatic replacement after 2 years makes me think they should last you quite awhile.

I think you did really good!
Bob

 

[SternWake]

Depends on if the illuminated signs were left flashing all night long. i like doing my distance driving at night, and I've seen those signs flashing dimly and slowly. The solar panels I' ve seen in use on those, are not strong enough to both illuminate the lights and properly charge batteries, and I doubt such worker's bother with hooking them up to a grid powered charger after a job.