Optima Batteries - Overkill?

[jp-]

With my dual battery controller I can theoretically line up 3000A for five seconds on my starter. In reality I have limited this to 150A with a master fuse.
Gregor

The beauty of electrical devices is that they only draw the amperage they need to run, so there is no need to fuse the starter (even if you had 10,000A on tap, it still only draws what it needs).

Now if your starter developed a direct short, you'd have some fireworks. But I've never seen that happen.

[uralrover]

WHat I've Learned

I Have used Both Optima and Excide Spiral Cell Batteries. I found the Optima worked very well in my Range Rover even with the high draining accessories and leaving the Lights on over night. One of the Advantages to the Spiral-cell is usually they can be recovered even after being fully discharged....Usually.
But, the Optima didn't last as long nor recover quite as well in my series III. I switched to the Excide and have had less problems with recovery and longgivity, especially where up here the Lead-acid batteries freeze exposed to the Northeastern cold. I use mine for trailside welding as well as running a 180Amp. Voltage converter when I go camping and the Excide seemed to be less effected by the heavy draws. So, Optima better in Newer vehicles w/ high amp charging systems. Excide in older Series type with weaker charging systems. Going to Really test it with a Kenlow Pre-heater and a Diesel Next........

[greenmeanie]

The beauty of electrical devices is that they only draw the amperage they need to run, so there is no need to fuse the starter (even if you had 10,000A on tap, it still only draws what it needs).

Now if your starter developed a direct short, you'd have some fireworks. But I've never seen that happen.

Very true. The amp comment was rather facetious. It does, however, reflect the CCA I have on tap which is the important number for cold weather while they also have a good reserve capacity which is what I need in the summer.

It does, however, mean that I have no problems churning over the V8 even in cold damp weather with 20/50 oil. The lead acids aren't as effective in freezing temps as the electrolyte is cold. The odysseys seem fine although with the dual system I can line up both on the starter. It ain't Alaska but it works down to 0°F. My Optima never made it through the AZ summer to test in the cold.

The fusing is in the main feed for the overall electrical system to protect the fuse panel etc. from a catastrophic battery discharge as advised by Painless and Hellroaring.

Cheers
Gregor

[yorker]

And when your ambulance is laying on it's side you don't have to worry about battery acid everywhere....don't ask how I know.

That was the reason I got one- the only reason. Not that I flopped anything on its side but with the nuts I play offroad with it frequently approaches the tip over angle... The old battery box was taking a beating from acid- it ate most of the galvanizing.