MEP-803A won't start

[steelydan]

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CBTRMZ4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Permanently hooks to both batteries. Just unplug the side receptacle before use (it can stay installed) so it doesnt charge while the alternator is charging under use.

Damn, you're gonna burn up my credit card!

 

[Guyfang]

If its nosediving like that, you aren't saving it.

Depends. The Optima is a battery that often, when its put on a SMART charger, can be saved. I used to use a dumb charger, to blast the optima, for an over night charge. THEN use a smart charger on it. And back then, an Army smart charger, would not even hold a candle to one you can buy today. Like Dan said, why not try it?

 

[Light in the Dark]

The 34/78 is the OEM size, but for my inventory needs its way easier to just stock a single size that fits both 802s and 803s. I have not found any performance difference to speak of with the different size.

 

[steelydan]

I tried charging the Optima with my Battery Tender, but it still wouldn't start the genset.
So I drained the water seperator (though it doesn't look at all like what the manual shows..)
Then, before I went out and bought new batteries, I decided to hook up my Harbor Freight 12V Jump Starter in place of the dead battery, and it worked. Started right up.
So now I'm thinking it may be cheaper @ $80 and more versatile to just buy another HF Jump Starter, keep them charged in the house, and hook them up to the generator when I need to start it.

 

[quartermeter]

I tried charging the Optima with my Battery Tender, but it still wouldn't start the genset.
So I drained the water seperator (though it doesn't look at all like what the manual shows..)
Then, before I went out and bought new batteries, I decided to hook up my Harbor Freight 12V Jump Starter in place of the dead battery, and it worked. Started right up.
So now I'm thinking it may be cheaper @ $80 and more versatile to just buy another HF Jump Starter, keep them charged in the house, and hook them up to the generator when I need to start it.

Po

 

[quartermeter]

Why can’t I just charge one battery one night and the other battery another night? Is it necessary to charge them at the same time

 

[kloppk]

Charging each with a 12 volt charger on different days is fine.