Testing SLA batteries

[Donald]

Is there a way to test the small SLA batteries that might be used for small electric start engines or jump packs. Can one convert AH to CCA and use my conductive battery tester I use for car battery.

I know I can measure voltage. And charge it. But would like to know if it's 60% good or 90% good?

 

[eljefino]

If your battery tester has the means to graph voltage while cranking and if you're willing to actually remove your real battery from the circuit, and to use exclusively the jump pack, you can make an informed guess.

Be sure to minimize differences, like making sure the car is stone cold both times, and battery temps are ambient.

In reality it's probably better to screw around with one of those 100 amp cheese grater testers.

 

[Donald]

If your battery tester has the means to graph voltage while cranking and if you're willing to actually remove your real battery from the circuit, and to use exclusively the jump pack, you can make an informed guess.

Be sure to minimize differences, like making sure the car is stone cold both times, and battery temps are ambient.

In reality it's probably better to screw around with one of those 100 amp cheese grater testers.

I have a carbon pile load tester. But you dial it to 1/2 CCA.

 

[Brad_C]

I know I can measure voltage. And charge it. But would like to know if it's 60% good or 90% good?

I've had batteries that deliver most of their CCA, but were down to 25% of actual capacity. The only way to determine that is with a timed discharge test.

I use a SkyRC BD200 and some custom software to do timed discharge tests, and a carbon pile for the CCA tests.

 

[Kira]

And when you've determined any battery is beyond useful life, bring it to AutoZone for a merchandise card.
The counterman I spoke with told me it was national.
Do it before they cease the offer.

 

[Carmudgeon]

And when you've determined any battery is beyond useful life, bring it to AutoZone for a merchandise card.
The counterman I spoke with told me it was national.
Do it before they cease the offer.

The big chains all have similar programs, but there are restrictions, and YMMV depending on the store personnel doing the transaction.

A quick glance at the AZ website doesn't specify, but the local store said they'll only take car batteries.

ORAP does have this on their website:

O’Reilly team members reserve the right to refuse a damaged battery for recycling as they see fit. If your battery has been physically damaged and is leaking acid, it should be recycled at your local hazardous waste recycling facility. Motorcycle, ATV/UTV, golf cart, marine, and lawn and garden AGM or lead-acid batteries do not qualify for the $10 gift card offer. We also cannot recycle lithium batteries for marine, powersport, or automotive applications.

There are also daily quantity limits as well.

 

[Kira]

My AZ guy said, "as long as they're separate" (?) and, "You get up to five".

That's why I was glad to patronize that very store when I bought the H6 for my car.

Believe me, I'm well aware of the importance of "who's working that day". I memorized that guy's face. I have two left.