Battery?
Race Director
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 14,137
Likes: 2,984
From: Iowa
St. Jude Donor '03 thru '26
Also recommend an 'acid absorbing' mat under the battery. I don't have one, yet. But as soon as I'd practical, I'm going to. Just extra insurance. I'm also wondering if anyone has tried any sort of 'gel' type battery? Or was/is the Optima a gel type? I had one on a snowmobile once (gives away my locale!!), and it lasted a long time, and can be mounted anywhere (within reason), on its side, or, according to the dealer, even upside down, if need be........
Do not confuse AGM batteries with GEL batteries
These days AGM batteries are often mistaken as Gel batteries due to their numerous similarities –- Both are recombinant – meaning that the oxygen produced on positive plate is absorbed by the negative plate. Now instead of producing hydrogen, the negative plate produces water, thus maintaining the water content in the battery.
- This is the reason why AGM and Gel batteries are valve regulated, sealed, spill proof, maintenance free, resistant to vibration and can be installed in any position.
- The striking difference between the two is that of the electrolyte. Electrolyte being used in Gel batteries has a look of jelly whereas the AGM batteries have electrolyte absorbed in glass mat like separators. Due to the properties of electrolyte used in gel batteries the battery loses power fast at temperatures below 32 degree F whereas AGM batteries work efficiently in cold temperatures.
- Finally, gel batteries are best suited for deep discharge as they are more acid starved, protecting plates better compared to AGM batteries. The AGMs are more compatible where high current is required.
Race Director
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 12,864
Likes: 4,667
AGM and gel batteries are closely related but not identical. Even if you Google "GEL batteries", Optima batteries pop up.
Do not confuse AGM batteries with GEL batteries
These days AGM batteries are often mistaken as Gel batteries due to their numerous similarities –- Both are recombinant – meaning that the oxygen produced on positive plate is absorbed by the negative plate. Now instead of producing hydrogen, the negative plate produces water, thus maintaining the water content in the battery.
- This is the reason why AGM and Gel batteries are valve regulated, sealed, spill proof, maintenance free, resistant to vibration and can be installed in any position.
- The striking difference between the two is that of the electrolyte. Electrolyte being used in Gel batteries has a look of jelly whereas the AGM batteries have electrolyte absorbed in glass mat like separators. Due to the properties of electrolyte used in gel batteries the battery loses power fast at temperatures below 32 degree F whereas AGM batteries work efficiently in cold temperatures.
- Finally, gel batteries are best suited for deep discharge as they are more acid starved, protecting plates better compared to AGM batteries. The AGMs are more compatible where high current is required.
Last edited by grinder11; Aug 17, 2021 at 06:09 PM.
