fitting new batteries August 11, 2013, 02:28:29 pm Yahoo Message Number: 141946After a lot of help, one of a batteries finally gave out. I'm going to change to AGMs. We gave up the idea of going to 4 batteries, but it just wouldn't fit into our plans. Sigh. So, I'm going to buy a pair of Lifeline GPL-4CT or (!) 6CT. The 4CTs are the same fit as the older batteries. The 6CT is 3" more high. The 4CT have 20 hr capacity of 220; the 6CT is rated by 300. If I go with the 4CT's, it's a simple drop-in. (well, it's 66lb). If I go with the 6CT's, it's 3" higher and it's 90lb. To make it work, I'd have to pull out the moving rack and put the battery on the bottom. And the volume for working becomes a lot smaller.Thoughts, please? And along with AGMs comes the need to change the charge controller. Are any Helio's 22b? If not, what's the best version from Am Solar.(Mike: I WILL change the wire when I change the batteries. Really!)
Re: fitting new batteries Reply #1 – August 11, 2013, 02:51:49 pm Yahoo Message Number: 141948Since AGMs need no water, you won't need the sliding rack, Jerry, so go ahead and remove it. Concorde says that their Lifeline AGM batteries can be charged using normal settings for flooded-cell batteries, so you should be OK with the HPV-22B controller. Just be sure you don't try to "equalize" the AGMs--that involves a serious overvoltage, and they don't like that.Andy Baird http://www.andybaird.com/travels/
Re: fitting new batteries Reply #2 – August 12, 2013, 07:34:55 pm Yahoo Message Number: 141973If you compare the minutes of discharge table, you will see that the 4CT actually exceeds the original T-105 batteries. I was following the same path as you, but decided it wasn't worth the hassle for the extra AH. Curious, how old are your T-105s? Mine are now 7 years, and I figured they were on the way out. But still going strong. I have an HPV-22B, but when not
Re: fitting new batteries Reply #3 – August 12, 2013, 08:10:16 pm Yahoo Message Number: 141976Ok, I looked at the 90 lb for the 6CT and at my biceps. Tata! (wimping out)... I'm going with the 4CT. I have a store that will remove and dispose of the Trojans, put
Re: fitting new batteries Reply #4 – August 12, 2013, 10:35:56 pm Yahoo Message Number: 141980Hi Dave,Ours is a 2006 (last of 2006 batch - we bought it
Re: fitting new batteries Reply #5 – August 13, 2013, 10:51:39 pm Yahoo Message Number: 141998QuoteAnd along with AGMs comes the need to change the charge controller. Are any Helio's 22b? If not, what's the best version from Am Solar. Since the Heliotrope MPPT charge controllers offer no automatic multi-stage charging, that might be a reason for changing - but the new batteries won't require it. If you will be generating 15A of charge current or less, the Morningstar Sunsaver MPPT is a nifty, rugged unit that can be hidden out of sight and provides sophisticated charge control. A remote readout must be purchased separately, if you don't have a battery monitor.Steve