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From: "dfs" <dfs@gateway.net>
To: "Lancair List" <lancair.list@olsusa.com>
Subject: Batteries
Date: Wed, 8 Sep 1999 00:08:09 -0700
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Re: the message about Bob Nuckolls' recommendation to use only RG batteries.

In this I concur, IF, and only IF, one also installs one of the solid-state
adjustable regulators to go along with it that can hold the bus voltage to
within +/- around 0.1 volt. In addition, a very accurate digital voltmeter
(DVM) to set the nominal charging bus voltage, e.g., the alternator output
voltage. The set voltage should be as required by the manufacturer of the
battery you choose. (Note that I'm not mentioning the voltage to set as this
has been a very hot bone of contention here in the past). In the literature
you get when you buy one will be (or should be) the phone no. of the
manufacturer and they usually are very happy to give you the charging
parameters.

I speak from experience in this matter as I went through three Concorde
RG-25 batteries in about a year until I got smart and called them (they're
in so. Cal.) about my problem keeping one of their units alive. After I
installed the new regulator and set my bus voltage as required, I've had no
more problems. My last RG-25 has been soldiering on nicely for about two
years with no signs of weakness so far.

Believe me, I've been involved with aircraft batteries for Rockwell and
later, Boeing, and different battery technologies definitely require
different charging parameters. Recombinant-Gas (RG) starved electrolyte
batteries are super but the subtle differences in the chemistry used by the
various manufacturers often require different treatment. Look back in the
archives for the extensive discussion on this subject - I'm sure there's a
lot of info there. 'Nuff said.

Dan Schaefer
N235SP


[Excellent info, Dan, thanks for jumping in once again.  For more information
about RG batteries I highly recommend the Hawker Energy Products site
(http://www.hepi.com)... check out their "Ask Dr. Volt" area and take a 
good look at their Odyssey series of batteries to get fully up to speed
on this subject.

   <Marv>           ]
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