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Post by High Sierra Fan on Apr 4, 2021 17:02:03 GMT -8
So on a recent road trip I had my truck battery turn up dead at a photo stop along the Ohiopyle river where it’s popular for kayakers. Near the iconic Frank Loyd Wright designed house, Fallingwaters.
It had started with no issues multiple times that day, and along some really small single lane gravel roads around the state park.
So when this happened I considered it was past time I considered one of those battery jump starters, which btw was what the AAA club used to start my truck (and the rangers used to start a car at an adjacent Cades Cove campsite in GSM NP a few years back). I park a lot of places I’m nowhere close to getting anyone to help with a jump so this is a logical consideration. They’re under a hundred bucks and the lithium ion ones are small.
Anyone have experience? Suggestions?
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Post by hikerjer on Apr 4, 2021 17:30:56 GMT -8
Good question. I’m considering the same purchase. It’ll be interesting to hear folk’s responses.
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Post by johntpenca on Apr 4, 2021 17:44:42 GMT -8
No clue. But it’s a good idea. As Jer wrote, interested to hear from those who know.
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texasbb
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Post by texasbb on Apr 4, 2021 17:49:32 GMT -8
I've carried one of these for a number of years. Works reasonably well, though you don't get a whole lot of cranking out of it. Don't count on multiple starts from it; once you've started the dead vehicle, keep it running till you're back where it doesn't matter. You're supposed to recharge it periodically whether you use it or not. It recharges very slowly; usually a few hours more than overnight. For a big rig/truck go for a bigger one (more cranking amps)...it's pretty important when you're way out in the backcountry.
Edit: Above I said it needs periodic recharging. What the user manual actually says is to charge "before extended storage." In my mind, 99% of the time it's in extended storage (in the car, not being used), so so I interpret that to mean it needs to be checked/recharged occasionally. It has a test switch and battery status gauge.
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Post by High Sierra Fan on Apr 4, 2021 18:08:15 GMT -8
Yes that’s partially why I’m thinking of the Li ion type as the lead acids require monthly recharging. And the Li ion ones can be topped off using the 12 volt vehicle ports (they come with the lighter port adapter for USB input) so after a jump it could be a bit restored on the way out just in case.
The larger size is sensible as back of wherever in the deep cold I expect more cranking power is a good extra margin.
Some local over sand beach permits require jumper cables as part of the required gear and while I have those I expect this sort of pack would be even better.
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texasbb
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Post by texasbb on Apr 4, 2021 19:18:29 GMT -8
Yeah, Li-ion wasn't really an option when I got mine. The advantages seem pretty compelling...not sure what the disadvantages are.
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Post by High Sierra Fan on Apr 4, 2021 19:26:34 GMT -8
Yeah, Li-ion wasn't really an option when I got mine. The advantages seem pretty compelling...not sure what the disadvantages are. I wonder what the temperature effects are? More or less than lead acid... not an anticipated issue for me but perhaps for others.
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Post by Coolkat on Apr 5, 2021 9:17:34 GMT -8
I have one that came from Costco. They usually have good stuff at a decent price. I haven't had to use it but I have had use my portable tire pump several times. These are really nice when you need them. Just don't forget to check the charge every few months.
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Post by tomqvaxy on Apr 6, 2021 14:05:45 GMT -8
the iconic Frank Loyd Wright designed house, Fallingwaters. just be thankful your roof didn't start leaking
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Post by High Sierra Fan on Apr 6, 2021 20:35:44 GMT -8
Nope, just a battery that failed it’s load test. Got a new one and out in about an hour.
Still going to get a jump starter battery pack before I head out on any significant road trips. Cheap insurance given the rates to get off-road assistance : for example per the rangers White Mountain up at the Ancient Bristlecones is $1500 cash upfront. (That tends to be multiple tires slashed by the dolomite rock shards on the unpaved road. They said two flat tires at once is pretty common: both tires on a side going over the same rock blade).
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