Deep Cycle batteries

[peg]

Can anyone tell me what type/brand of deep cycle battery we would need for our off road caravan. The two we have decided to play up when we were away so we couldn't bush camp as planned. OK during the day but nothing at night. Someone told us that they only last about 5 years and as it is a second hand van I believe that time is up. I also heard that if we go off road a lot then we would need a special battery for tough conditions, something about being dry inside??
Also, what kind of money are we talking please?

Cheers
peg

[Merts]

I reckon AGM type batteries are the go for vans. Spill proof and good for vibration resistance.

I've had good service from the Fullriver DC batteries.
A 105 AH is around the $380 mark. 120 AH about $420.

[Dicko1]

You will not beat Fullriver. A bit pricey but well worth it. You would have a fair amount of money invested in your off road van, I am guessing, so a $1000 for 2 good Fullriver batteries is cheap

[pajeromack]

First thing you need to work out is what battery capacity you need. Price is directly proportional to capacity. Then you decide on the battery technology.

Most people run Lead-Acid batteries in the form of AGM.

As noted above, Fullriver batteries have a good reputation. There are cheaper brands around too.
Price wise you're probably looking a bit under $1000 for a pair installed which would give you around 210-240AH.

There's a few people running lithium based batteries. More expensive and needs more complex circuitry but much lighter and a longer cycle life.

[zepps]

AGM's can have great long lifetime 5+ years if looked after. Its important to use a good quality charger that doesn't over volt them 14.4V+. Also, if you want them to last, its important not to drain them below 50% (12.2V). When designing your system (Capacity) double it when using AGM.

If you plan to be hard on your batteries by draining them till almost flat, buy the cheapest you can find

[sharkcaver]

Before lashing out, confirm the charging system is working as it should, then get the original batteries load tested.

It would be a pain to lash out on new bats to find the same happening because its not charging properly in the first place.

[peg]

Thanks everyone.