I have nothing against a device like the Battery Minder, but lets put a few things in perspective.  A battery is an expendable, not an investment.  If you fly IFR, it needs to be in top shape so it can get you out of IMC and on the ground in a reasonable amount of time in the event of an alternator failure.  Sure, you can lower your flying cost by squeezing another year or two out of a battery, but what are the savings and what is the risk?

The safe thing to do is to change the battery every year -- 2 if you are feeling brave.  Trying to extend the life of a battery is fool hardy.  In the worst case, all that a Battery Minder will do for you is to increase the value if your estate by $5.

Regards,

Hamid



Christopher Zavatson wrote:

Mike,

The first part of the recovery from 50 to 70% went very quickly(2 weeks).  The climb to 83% took much longer(8 more weeks).  I imagine there is some upper limit given that the battery is four+ years old.  We shall see....   

Good luck with your resurrection.  Hopefully your battery isn't too far gone.
Chris