Battery life expectancy

[dfroster]

The stock battery in my Apex is 3 seasons old. I charged it before the last 2 riding seasons. Other than avoiding battery death out on the trail, is there any good reason to replace now? Any idea of replacement cost?

 

[Len Todd]

I am still using my '04 battery, and I ran it down several times in Canada starting it in -45 degree weather.

But, I charge the battery several times in the summer, and I have an Optimate charger. If you have the right charger, charge it frequently in the summer and do not ever run it down until she won't turn over, then there is a high degree of likelihood that it will last another season, at least.

 

[kinger]

On my 3rd year and am not worried.

 

[gottago]

If you are on your 3rd season....change it! Batteries are cheap instead of getting stuck on the trail.

I always change it after the 3rd season!

 

[jlemieu1]

My batt on my 06 Attak just started to get weak but not dead. I replaced just in case.

 

[Len Todd]

My batt on my 06 Attak just started to get weak but not dead. I replaced just in case.

I am still using the OEM battery in my '04. Do you have an Optimate charger? ... Which reminds me. I had better get out there and charge it up. I typically get it monthly. But, I have not got it since before we went on our two month trip to Alaska. This time it's condition could be interesting.

 

[maim]

i had trouble with mine last season at -40c a few times. one boosted it was fine (had already did the realay tricks). for $50.00 canadian for a new one, it shure beats walking.

 

[Len Todd]

i had trouble with mine last season at -40c a few times. one boosted it was fine (had already did the relay tricks). for $50.00 Canadian for a new one, it shure beats walking.

After my first Canadian trip with my sled, I added a block heater. The high temp for the week was -25. In the mornings, at -40 to -45, I had to crank for nearly a minute to get it started. Now, with the block heater, then engine starts like it is in a 50+ degree F environment. But in my case with carbs, I have to be quick to add the choke because as soon as it gets that shot of cold from the heat-exchangers, it's looking for things to be a lot richer.

 

[maim]

true but sometimes i am out at camp and a boost is hard enough to come by nevermind a generator to plug it in.

 

[jlemieu1]

My batt on my 06 Attak just started to get weak but not dead. I replaced just in case.

I am still using the OEM battery in my '04. Do you have an Optimate charger? ... Which reminds me. I had better get out there and charge it up. I typically get it monthly. But, I have not got it since before we went on our two month trip to Alaska. This time it's condition could be interesting.

I use Schumacher SSC-1000A - 10/6/2 Amp Ship 'N Shore. http://store.schumachermart.com/ssc-1000a.html
This also de-sulfates batts like the Optimate. Plus this unit is great for boats too. The first attempt to Desulfate said Bad Batt. 2nd attempt said it batt was ok. I just didn't want to risk it.

 

[apltx08]

I keep mine pluged on a OPTIMATE III 24/7 365 days a year when sled is not in use, my buddy's '05 RX1 those the same going on 5yrs without any issues, we hot wired our 12v outlet and back feed to battery, just un-plug & ride...