Load Test of Deep Cycle storage battery

[nothermark]

FWIW load testing stress's the battery the same way using them does. It's worth keeping that in mind. I would also be very leary of any battery test that could give me results in a minute or two on a deep cycle battery. Starting batteries are designed for high current short duration loads so a fast test is applicable. Deep cycle batteries are not designed for that kind of load. One would be much better off setting up something like a 20 Amp test with a timer. Set a timer for an hour or two. Measure the voltage, start the timer with the test load then check the voltage again when the bell rings. Easy and more accurate for deep cycles.

[Dutch Star Don]

Dean, TQ60 and YC1 gave great answers. I have one of the Harbor Freight load testers...they're about $20.00. It's not fancy and as discussed, will probably only tell you if the battery is toast. For the price, I find it handy to keep in my tool box at home.

One of the first things I learned as a new mechanic out of high school....you CAN'T load test a dead battery. A battery should be fully charged before testing!

[dennis45]

Originally Posted by Dutch Star Don

Dean, TQ60 and YC1 gave great answers. I have one of the Harbor Freight load testers...they're about $20.00. It's not fancy and as discussed, will probably only tell you if the battery is toast. For the price, I find it handy to keep in my tool box at home.

One of the first things I learned as a new mechanic out of high school....you CAN'T load test a dead battery. A battery should be fully charged before testing!

Absolutely, and if the battery won't take a charge, no need to test it.