"Made in China" MC battery... dead in 13 months.

[mrsilv04]

Originally Posted By: Robenstein

There is cheap and there is inexpensive. The WM ones are less expensive. And just because its made in china does not always mean low quality. Although for political reasons I wish more was made in a different country. And no I got my battery for 34 bucks at Wal Mart.


For my application, the Made in China Wal-Mart battery is $81.94, plus tax. Deka battery made in Pennsylvania = $82.05.

That's no bargain. Again, I just pulled out a Made in China battery that failed after just 13 months. Exactly why would I replace it with another gem from China?

That's a 9 cent difference, not $15.

 

[Robenstein]

Well the price varies on which part number you need. It won't always be a great deal, but for me it was.

Also...If you own a bike I am betting there are plenty of china made parts in your ride. Its a global economy and its just the reality of things.

 

[RonH]

I wonder why they replaced the battery to begin with. The original battery is good and generally lasts for many years, but of course results may vary. Why fool with China when the original battery can be bought for $77?
http://www.directlineparts.com/product.asp?pid=1620&str=4

 

[Ken2]

Interstate is a battery marketer, not a battery maker. Their auto batteries are made by Johnson Controls, their golf cart batteries are made by U.S. Battery, and I don't know who makes their motorcycle batteries.

A friend owns a motorcycle repair shop. He gets very good results with the Parts Unlimited labeled batteries he gets from that wholesaler. They have been very reliable, and the few times he's had warranty claims, he gets good warranty service from them. Again, no idea who makes them.

The bulging cell on that GW battery is very unusual. A frozen battery is immediately junk...it'll never work again after thawing. I've only seen a bulging cell on a battery that was seriously overcharged or seriously over draw, both resulting in overheating.

 

[grampi]

Originally Posted By: AVB
The Japan made Yuasa batteries seem to last longer than most motorcycle batteries including the USA made Yuasa. The LiFe batteries from Shorai look promising but they are expensive. I have been seeing AutoCraft batteries from AAP lasting less than 6 months lately.


I have a made in USA Yusa that's 7 years old now and still going strong...I also keep it on a tender all winter long...

 

[Jeff_in_VABch]

Correct battery care and charging makes all the difference on battery life. While you cant control the charge rate or voltage while the battery is in the vehicle, you can during the off season with a good charger(s) and a hydrometer.