Safety and Handling
- Always wear proper eye, face and hand protection when working with batteries
- Never lean over a battery while boosting, testing or charging
- Exercise caution when working with metallic tools or conductors to prevent short circuits and arcing
- Keep terminals protected to prevent accidental shorting
- Replace any battery that has signs of damage to the terminals, case or cover
- Install battery in a ventilated area for operation and during charging
- DO NOT ADD WATER TO THE OPTIMA® BATTERY
Maintenance, Charging and Storage
BATTERY MAINTENANCE
The OPTIMA® battery is truly maintenance free. When charged properly you will not have to worry about leaking, corrosion, or gassing. Periodically inspect your battery terminal connections to ensure they are clean, snug, and protected from the elements.
Open circuit voltage (OCV) and storage: OCV: all REDTOP® and BLUETOP® SLI >12.8 volts (for a fully charged battery)
YELLOWTOP® and BLUETOP Deep Cycle >13.0 volts (for a fully charged battery)
CHARGING
The following charging methods are recommended to ensure a long battery life. Always use a voltage-regulated charger, with voltage limits set as described below.
Alternator
13.8 to 15.0 volts
Battery Charger (Constant Voltage)
13.8 to 15.0 volts, 10 amps, 12-15 hours approximate
Float Charge
13.2 to 13.8 volts, 1 amp maximum current
Rapid Recharge (Constant Voltage Charger)
Maximum voltage 15.6 volts. No current limit as long as temperature remains below 50°C. Charge until current drops below 1 amp.
Recharge Time (100% discharge – 10.5 volts)
| AMPERAGE | APPROXIMATE TIME TO 90% CHARGE | |
|---|---|---|
| 4.2 | 5.5 | |
| 100 amps | 35 minutes | 52 minutes |
| 50 amps | 75 minutes | 112 minutes |
| 25 amps | 140 minutes | 210 minutes |
Recharge time will vary according to temperature and charger characteristics. When using constant voltage chargers, current will taper down as the battery becomes recharged. When current drops below 1 amp, the battery will be close to a full state of charge.
Cyclic Application or String Series Applications
Constant voltage with constant current finish (CC/CV): 14.7 volts, temperature < 50°C, no current limits. When current falls below 1 amp, finish with 3 amps constant current for one hour for type 5.5 and 2 amps for all other types.
All charge recommendations assume an average room temperature of 25°C.
BATTERY STORAGE
Due to its unique high purity lead grid construction the OPTIMA battery has a self-discharge rate much lower than conventional flat plate batteries. This means the OPTIMA can be stored for longer periods of inactivity whilst retaining enough charge to start your vehicle. Depending on storage temperature, the OPTIMA can usually stand for 8 to 12 months and start most vehicles.When possible, store your battery in a cool, dry location. Check the battery voltage every 6 months and charge if it falls below 12.6 volts.
Remember, newer vehicles with on-board electronics such as computers, alarms, etc., require battery power to retain system memory while the vehicle is parked. If the vehicle is to be stored for long periods you should use a maintenance charger to compensate for this drain. This charger should be voltage regulated between 13.2 - 13.8 volts, 1 amp maximum. On older vehicles, without electronics, disconnect the battery cables when the vehicle is not being used for extended periods.
Installation Tips
CONNECTING BATTERIES TOGETHER IN PARALLEL
If your battery application requires more starting power or reserve capacity you can install multiple batteries together in parallel by connecting the like terminals together (positive to positive / negative to negative). Each time you add a battery in parallel you increase the CCA and Reserve Capacity, the voltage remains at 12 volts. For example, two OPTIMA® RT U 4,2`s in parallel will provide 1630 A and 100 Ah. Three in parallel provides 2445 A and 150 Ah. If you have any questions about multiple battery installations, contact an appropriate auto electrical service center.
Suggestions for Connecting Batteries in Parallel
- Use batteries of identical make, model, and age.
- Make sure cable gauge is sufficient to handle the higher current flow.
- Prevent cables from shorting (do not allow them to rub against the vehicle body).
- Use only high quality connectors and clean all contacts prior to installation.
- Periodically check all connections for secure fit.
- If you are unsure of this procedure, contact your auto electrical service center.
BATTERY INSTALLATION TIPS
- Ensure that the battery is properly secured in the vehicle or equipment to prevent movement and vibration. Do not over tighten the hold down bracket as this can damage the plastic case.
- Connect high amperage accessories such as a winch to the top terminals only. Do NOT use the side terminals.
- Replace any cables and connectors that have corrosion, rust, or other damage.
- Do not install batteries in a non-ventilated or sealed compartment.
- Do not lift or handle the batteries by the terminals.
- Do not over tighten terminal bolts, the following values are recommended: SAE automotive terminal: 6-8 nm. Side terminal (3/8" nut): 8 nm. Threaded stud terminal: 14-20 nm.