Unlike most lithium batteries, lead-acid batteries last longest when kept "topped up".
^^this! :thumbsup:
'Wet' cell batteries self discharge more quickly that sealed, and while SLA/AGM/Gel batteries are 'wet' types they do so at the lowest rate among them. Those in our cars/trucks tend to outlast our mowers, generators, and tractors because of time spent at less than full charge.
Even the cheapo HFT tricklers are enough to maintain because of 'floating circuit' design, which senses battery voltage and reduces charge as needed. No, they're not some ultimate, but are
much better than 'better than nothing'.
A story:
My guy can't keep battery charged in his (later 'my') JD 1520 'gas'. Replaces alt with one-wire auto unit, then blames low tractor rpm for under-charging. I see HFT trickler's little red light on and am told it is working ... until I unplug it and see by the LED that it's dud and the battery was keeping it lit.
In addition to the wisdom shared by all above, use one of those HFT coupons to get the volt-ohmmeter and voltages we mention will add much to your perspective. btw, the higher the rate of charge, the longer it should 'soak' to stabilize voltage before an accurate reading can be taken. Good idea to soak before hydrometer test, too.
Another story:
A guy's car won't start and while fanning the accelerator pedal he cranks 'til it won't turn over at all. Then he gives up with, "I'll drive the Jimmy to work and fix the car 'this weekend' .. " or such. (new plugs & wires .. again
) Those handful of days spent so discharged might reduce the batteries life by as many
months.
Rant:
Harley's big issue is/has been fitting so many 'Big Twins' with puny 16Ah batteries and trading kick start for extra/unneeded gears. IMO, 'Electric Foot' is for sissies.
... :laughing:
