Re: [VAC] Mid-Cities Honda Generator Models

["Dr. Gerald N. Johnson, P.E." <geraldj@xxxxxxxx>]

If your charger doesn't have a deep cycle setting then you need a
different charger. Deep cycle batteries typically have a lower voltage
for full charge. That's because they use a lower specific gravity of
acid to make the chemistry a little easier on the plates.

Battery charging cut off voltage is critical to the 0.1 volt or closer
for long battery life. The voltage is just right when the current tapers
to zero and any higher voltage keeps it from going all the way to zero.
And its a little temperature sensitive. The optimum voltage rises above
room temperature and also as temperature falls, the battery resistance
falls so most particular regulators run a higher voltage at low
temperature.

When the voltage is excess the battery "boils" the water away. Actually
it dissociates the water into hydrogen and oxygen and those fumes are in
exactly the most perfect ratio for the best bang when ignited.

When the voltage is low, the battery never reaches full charge and some
of the plate material that was converted to lead sulfate never gets
converted back. And small crystals of lead sulfate left to sit grow
bigger and harder to convert by charging. Enough of that, and the
battery will have a high terminal voltage, will take current forever and
not supply a load. That's a sulfated battery. There are few cures for
sulfation. There are many cures claimed. Usually replacing the battery
is the most effective cure.

Gerald J.