Recharged Optima Batteries?

elks · #1 (**permalink**) 01-16-2008, 07:33 PM

So I just added a winch and bumper. I have an interstate battery that is a mid range battery for my truck. I checked and the local interstate guy has optima red tops that have been recharged for like 70 buck. They test and the same cranking amps and everything as a new. Any thoughts on this? Is a good deal? He swears they are pretty close to a new one.
Thanks for help.

Puffnstuff · #2 (**permalink**) 01-16-2008, 07:42 PM

Just say no and move along.

Krys · #3 (**permalink**) 01-16-2008, 07:46 PM

if ya want one, save up and buy it new....just my 2 cents

Burger Steak & Eggs · #4 (**permalink**) 01-16-2008, 07:49 PM

It depends on what they mean by "recharged". Did someone just turn on a headlight for half an hour, or were they totally dead? If a starter (non deep cycle) battery has been allowed to seriously discharge, it can be damaged to varying degrees. It may recharge and then appear to perform well enough, but it has lost some of its long term life, so to speak. I agree with H.R. Puffinstuff. Purchase elsewhere.

DevinSixtySeven · #5 (**permalink**) 01-16-2008, 07:50 PM

It will last a while as long as you're not completely discharging it or putting a hefty load on it.

Treat it like it is, an old/used battery, and it should be ok...it is an Optima.

Unless these are batteries that couldn't hold a charge on the vehicle and have been nursed back to full charge...in that case, pass.

Mine is a blue top, it's been drained a few times accidentally and it's six years old, still running fine, so longevity isn't an issue, only abuse.

-Sean

KCfj40 · #6 (**permalink**) 01-17-2008, 06:45 AM

I'd pass at 70 bucks for a used battery. I can get new Optima red tops (cosmetic blemishes) for 70 locally. Go buy the biggest new deep cycle you can fit. It'll still have plenty of amperage for starting and will handle the heavy/extended demands of a winch much better.

Heatwave · #7 (**permalink**) 01-17-2008, 10:46 AM

"they are pretty close to a new one."

I think that's as good a warning as you'll get from the seller that the "recharged" battery is a piece of heavy junk.

Save your dimes and spring for a new Optima RedTop.

DevinSixtySeven · #8 (**permalink**) 01-17-2008, 11:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KCfj40

handle the heavy/extended demands of a winch much better.

You know what, I spaced that...I agree, get a new one, in all likelihood you'll trash these "used" ones winching.