Batteries for my Dozer

[2458n]

We used 8d batteries in the old triple nickle (555) diesels. It was-19 degrees last week in parts of Ohio. If I was still working I would have come home with some good batteries last week. Our head wrench would always just swap in two new batteries to keep the equipment ready to run. I would hit the shop as soon as I could and haul off the junk batteries. Alittle charging and they would not freeze all winter and would be ready for whatever in the spring. Ran a dead 8d for 10 years.

 

[charlz]

Lead/acid batteries will self-discharge up to about 10% per month. You either need to plan a periodic charging session or pull them so you can easily charge/desulfate them in the shop/garage. A charged battery will not freeze/crack but a discharged battery will. I pull mine in the winter because I know I won't be using it for a few months.

If you want a mostly 'hands free' system to keep them topped off I would look at a solar panel and a 24volt charge controller. Those wimpy 7watt panels and the like will not keep up with one battery much less two. Wire in the charge controller and then some type of wiring plug/quick disconnect (trailer plug style?) so the panel can lay on the cab or hood until you need to use the dozer. There is tons and tons of solar charging information over on the RV.net forums I am sure someone could hook you up with the bare minimum specs that you would need to select a solar panel and charge controller.