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Old 09-18-2017, 01:12 PM   #1
dfosterh
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Default Smart/float charger recommendations

I just got brand new batteries and think I want to replace my old PowerDrive (1 I think) and OBC with one of the smart chargers. Looking for a little guidance on some of the models I see out there.

First of all, my PowerDrive looks about as solid state as the Apollo 13. There's a coil, a couple diodes, the ammeter, and a relay. I'd have to think that even the most sophisticated OBC would not be able to get this thing to float charge correctly. Am I wrong on that?

So looking at models and their sophisticated battery charging and maintenance curves and graphs and wondering if they're worth it, and which one to buy.

First off, is there any hard data about how much they prolong battery life over an antiquated system like I have?

And finally, which one? I see DPI mentioned a lot in this forum. I've also seen Eagle touted as the very best of the best. And Schauer has one that looks comparable as well. For the price, Eagle better give me turbo boost and 10-year battery life.

Mind sharing your well-educated opinions?
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Old 09-18-2017, 02:22 PM   #2
whit71
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Default Re: Smart/float charger recommendations

"First of all, my PowerDrive looks about as solid state as the Apollo 13. There's a coil, a couple diodes, the ammeter, and a relay. I'd have to think that even the most sophisticated OBC would not be able to get this thing to float charge correctly. Am I wrong on that?"

The powerdrive does not have a Float charge, but it will come on every 15 days to recharge, if left plugged in.

I have a DPI with the OBC bypassed, and love it.
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Old 09-18-2017, 03:38 PM   #3
Swan
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Default Re: Smart/float charger recommendations

I have a DPI and bypassed the OBC when my Trojan 875 were new 2 yrs ago. So far so good works great and I have only added very little water in that time.
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Old 09-20-2017, 12:23 AM   #4
Anthonyc
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Default Re: Smart/float charger recommendations

I was thinking the same thing. I just bought a new set of batteries and only have the old powerdrive charger.

Will it maintain the batteries well?

Obviously there is some physical maintenance needed as well.

This is my first cart and I got a "deal" on it because the old batteries were toast in the cart.

How important are the other features that the other chargers perform?

Will they give the battery pack more years of service or is the difference between the old and new tech not that big a factor?

I've been reading the battery posts and I'm not quite certain the charger is the biggest problem for battery maintenance.
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Old 09-20-2017, 01:08 PM   #5
whit71
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Default Re: Smart/float charger recommendations

Quote:
Originally Posted by Anthonyc View Post
I was thinking the same thing. I just bought a new set of batteries and only have the old powerdrive charger.

Will it maintain the batteries well?

Obviously there is some physical maintenance needed as well.

This is my first cart and I got a "deal" on it because the old batteries were toast in the cart.

How important are the other features that the other chargers perform?

Will they give the battery pack more years of service or is the difference between the old and new tech not that big a factor?

I've been reading the battery posts and I'm not quite certain the charger is the biggest problem for battery maintenance.
It really depends on how often you use your cart, If you use it ever day, or every other day I don't think there would be an advantage to a smart charger with the float feature. But if your cart sits for extended periods of time without use, or is at a campground/vacation home, the smart chargers are a lot better and will extend the life of your batteries. Just my opinion.
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Old 09-20-2017, 01:43 PM   #6
Nsane
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Default Re: Smart/float charger recommendations

Quote:
Originally Posted by Swan View Post
I have a DPI and bypassed the OBC when my Trojan 875 were new 2 yrs ago. So far so good works great and I have only added very little water in that time.
Same here, DPI work well!
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