Recommendations for a Battery Booster / Jump Starter?

[vt_maverick]

Looking to buy a battery booster / jump starter but there are so many options to choose from! Do you guys have any experience or recommendations? I want something with a long life between charges, enough juice to jump any size engine, and on-board power ports for charging/running additional stuff. Built-in air compressor would be nice, but jumping is the priority. Oh, and trying to stay under $200 if possible.

Thoughts? Thanks!

[tom4bren]

I picked up one of the 'cheapo' ones at a truck stop a few years ago (I was on a 300 mile trip when my battery decided to go Tango Uniform).

The only problem I ever had with it is that I lost the charger & never got around to making a new one.

The best thing is to add a switched 12V power jack wherever you plan to store it in the VX. Keep it plugged in alla time & it'll always be ready for you.

[circmand]

The way they charge can shorten battery life. Get a trickle charger they slowly charge during the sit ona cycke so as to prolong the life no brand names come to mind but under $200 should be easy

[Triathlete]

Another VX with jumper cables!:bwgy:

[pbkid]

Another VX with jumper cables!:bwgy:
:thumbup:

[etlsport]

are you looking for something portable? the Die Hard 1150 is around $110.. it will hold its charge for 30 days, jump start just about anything, has 2 12v outlets, 2 120v outlets, a 125psi compressor, its not really meant to charge though, just to jump a car, as far as i know it also needs to be charged at home and will not recharge in a vehicle

if youre looking for somewhere to put an additional outlet in the vx.. try this

http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/medium/SOCKET_032.jpg (http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=9459)
http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/data/500/medium/SOCKET_031.jpg (http://www.vehicross.info/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=9458)

[vt_maverick]

I picked up one of the 'cheapo' ones at a truck stop a few years ago (I was on a 300 mile trip when my battery decided to go Tango Uniform).

The only problem I ever had with it is that I lost the charger & never got around to making a new one.

The best thing is to add a switched 12V power jack wherever you plan to store it in the VX. Keep it plugged in alla time & it'll always be ready for you.

Exact same for me, I had one I picked up at Wal-Mart years ago after a similar experience but lost the charger during a move. I just tossed it anyway, it took FOREVER to charge and lost the charge ridiculously fast when you used it for anything, including charging phones. Looking for something more high quality and durable this time around.

circ - Good point on the trickle charger. I've seen them sold separately, but it looks like some boosters come with an "intelligent charger" included that automatically switches between active charging and trickling depending upon battery level.

[vt_maverick]

are you looking for something portable? the Die Hard 1150 is around $110.. it will hold its charge for 30 days, jump start just about anything, has 2 12v outlets, 2 120v outlets, a 125psi compressor, its not really meant to charge though, just to jump a car, as far as i know it also needs to be charged at home and will not recharge in a vehicle

Sorry, should have said that in the first post, definitely looking for a portable unit. I looked at the Die Hard unit too, but 125psi is pretty wimpy. I had one that size that came in an emergency kit, and it burned up trying to inflate my tire (not on the VX though) to only 35 psi. There are two I've got my eye on that push 260 psi, which I think is about the best you can do without a full-on on-board air system.

[Cobrajet]

I've been using a "Portable Power Station" that I picked up at Costco, for a few years. The charger is built in, and I keep it plugged into the wall until I need it. Up until last week it would start anything that was dead, from my lawn tractor to my 429 Cobra. (Last week it failed to start the Cobra (dead battery), so I think it has reached it's end.) It has 2 12-vole outlets, and a tire pump, but I've never used either.

At the same time, I keep my Cobra battery on a Deltran Battery Tender whenever it is parked. It usually kept the battery ready to start the car, even though I may go months between runs. The Cobra bettery finally died after 5+ years, which is pretty good for rarely being used.

I'm thinking of getting a waterproof Battery Tender for my Mustang, since it sits outside for weeks without starting.

[Riff Raff]

Looking to buy a battery booster / jump starter but there are so many options to choose from! Do you guys have any experience or recommendations? I want something with a long life between charges, enough juice to jump any size engine, and on-board power ports for charging/running additional stuff. Built-in air compressor would be nice, but jumping is the priority. Oh, and trying to stay under $200 if possible.

Thoughts? Thanks!


VT-MAVERICK--- Go to: www.HerringtonCatalog.com and click-on "Motoring" accessories.

They have an awesome "portable" battery booster/jumper with 260 PSI inflater which also has both 12Volt outlets (2-each) and AC-power inverter outlets (2-each). It sells for just under $160 each.:yeso:

[Hiredgoon]

http://reviews.canadiantire.ca/9045/0111823P/reviews.htm

These things are brilliant.

[vt_maverick]

VT-MAVERICK--- Go to: www.HerringtonCatalog.com and click-on "Motoring" accessories.

They have an awesome "portable" battery booster/jumper with 260 PSI inflater which also has both 12Volt outlets (2-each) and AC-power inverter outlets (2-each). It sells for just under $160 each.:yeso:

I saw this the other day under it's OEM name of Wagan Tech. They produce a whole range of these "power domes" that are available from a number of retailers. Definitely pretty cool.

Wagan Tech Power Domes (http://www.wagan.com/index.php?page=shop.browse&category_id=18&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=101)

Model 2354 is the one we're discussing:

http://www.safety-devices.com/graphics/powerpack-2354.jpg

[vt_maverick]

VT-MAVERICK--- Go to: www.HerringtonCatalog.com and click-on "Motoring" accessories.

They have an awesome "portable" battery booster/jumper with 260 PSI inflater which also has both 12Volt outlets (2-each) and AC-power inverter outlets (2-each). It sells for just under $160 each.:yeso:

... and other on-line retailers offer them for as little as $99.95 incl. shipping. :eek:

[Riff Raff]

... and other on-line retailers offer them for as little as $99.95 incl. shipping. :eek:

:freek:WTF!!! Who are they VT-MAVERICK??? Please post all applicable websites, and share your knowledge for great bargains.:yeso:

[vt_maverick]

Check it out...

Wagan Tech Power Dome 2354 on shopping.google.com (http://www.google.com/products?q=wagan+2354&hl=en&scoring=p)

[vt_maverick]

Or for about $10 more you can have the same model plus am/fm radio with aux audio in-jack. There is a trade-off over the other model though, you lose a DC power port as well as about a foot and a half of booster cable length.

Wagan Tech Power Dome 2454 EX (http://www.wagan.com/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=45&category_id=18&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=101)

http://images.jr.com/productimages/WGN2454.PNG?CELL=380,380&QLT=67&FTR=3&BGCOLOR=FFFFFF&CVT=jpeg

Prices on shopping.google.com:

Retailers of Wagan Tech Power Dome 2454 EX's (http://www.google.com/products?q=wagan+2454&scoring=p)

[circmand]

Check it out...

Wagan Tech Power Dome 2354 on shopping.google.com (http://www.google.com/products?q=wagan+2354&hl=en&scoring=p)

this link is showing lite bulbs

[vt_maverick]

Works fine for me and I'm even on a different computer than the one I made this post on... :confused:

[Riff Raff]

Works fine for me and I'm even on a different computer than the one I made this post on... :confused:

x2. Your "link" worked fine for me, too. Thanx for the list of bargains VT-MAVERICK. Much appreciated.:yeso:

[vt_maverick]

Another good option: Cobra CJIC 350 (http://www.cobra.com/products/power-inverters/cjic-350)

http://www.cobra.com/images/productImages/Jumpstarters/Large/CJIC350_F_LRG.jpg

Can be had for as little as $80 + shipping on shopping.google.com (http://www.google.com/products?q=cobra+cjic+350&scoring=p).

Advantage over other models: Higher boost power, more traditional (i.e. smaller) footprint than power dome boxes
Disadvantages: Fewer power ports (only 1 AC, 1 DC), no true battery gauge (only vague LEDs), can't find details on cable gauge/length

[Riff Raff]

Another good option: Cobra CJIC 350 (http://www.cobra.com/products/power-inverters/cjic-350)

Hmmm, me likey a lot. The main definate advantage to the Cobra unit is that it's only 6.25" thick!!! It would be a lot easier to stow in the VX, as opposed to the much bulkier suitcase size Wagan brand models (perhaps the Cobra unit may even fit under the passenger front seat of the VX). Being able to keep it out of sight would also help keep the car burglars away. The limited power port problem can be easily fixed with a simple 3-way plug adapter for each of the two(2) single power ports. Plus, it's a Cobra and their brand (famous for CB's) has always been high quality and the price is right. This one is worth very serious consideration.

[vt_maverick]

Hmmm, me likey a lot. The main definate advantage to the Cobra unit is that it's only 6.25" thick!!! It would be a lot easier to stow in the VX, as opposed to the much bulkier suitcase size Wagan brand models (perhaps the Cobra unit may even fit under the passenger front seat of the VX)...

Doubt that it would fit under the seat, but I'm thinking maybe it would fit inside my Tone box (will measure when I get home and see).

[vt_maverick]

Sam posted this in the Internet Parts Thread so I thought I'd paste it here as well.


http://www.sierratradingpost.com/BarnBurners/

Run your electronics and tools anytime, anywhere with Wagan's continuous power AC inverter.
Runs AC equipment in car, SUV, boat and RV
Connects to any 12-volt battery power
Three household AC outlets
Overload protection
Operates with engine turned on or off
Auto reset short circuit protection
Built-in safety features and replaceable fuse
Thermal protection cooling fan
Low battery warning and automatic shut-off
Continuous power: 1250-watt
Peak surge power: 3000-watt
AC output: 115V
DC input: 12V nominal
Dimensions (LxWxH): 12x5-¼x2-3/8”
Weight: 5 lb. 2 oz.
Material: Aluminum

Now I'm thinking of getting a pure jumpstarter with higher CCAs and just supplementing it with this bad boy. Decisions decisions...

[samneil2000]

Herrington has their boost pack on sale for $120.
I have one just like this that a friend gave me. It's pretty sweet. Used it yesterday to boost off my daughter's 4-wheeler.

Clicky (http://www.herringtoncatalog.com/r148.html?email=email)

[vt_maverick]

Thanks for bumping the thread sam, I forgot to post that I picked up the Cobra CJIC350 back in December and it's sweet! Fits perfectly in my Tone box between the support posts for the dog barrier, it has great jumping power (already used it 2 or 3 times), and has good pressure on the air compressor (used that a bunch of times already). Probably nicest thing is it holds a charge for a really long time even under heavy use, and it recharges in only 30-60 minutes most of the time.

Strongly recommend this booster for anyone in the market.

[nfpgasmask]

I've actually been thinking about something like this as well. So, one of these devices could jump my Trooper if I was in the middle of nowhere and my battery dies? Is that the main purpose here? Because that is something I would be interested in.

Bart

[vt_maverick]

I've actually been thinking about something like this as well. So, one of these devices could jump my Trooper if I was in the middle of nowhere and my battery dies? Is that the main purpose here? Because that is something I would be interested in.

Bart

That is exactly the purpose. If you're going out in the boonies by yourself, IMO this is a no brainer. I also use the compressor to reinflate the tires after going out on the beach in the Outer Banks because it can be 20-30 miles along paved roads back to the nearest gas station.

[VX KAT]

We have the Duracell 600 Power pack. It's a similar animal, but does not actually have an air compressor on board, which would be handy, since we carry a separate compressor too. It's a 28aH AGM battery so we liked that it can handle vibration and won't spill and can jump start a V8.
http://www.amazon.com/Duracell-DPP-600HD-Powerpack-Starter-Emergency/dp/B000TKHMWK

For a charger/trickle charger for our AGM batteries we got a CTEK 7002. It's highly recommended for AGM batteries.
http://www.amazon.com/CTEK-Multi-7002-Battery-Charger/dp/B000FRLO9Y/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1269277825&sr=1-2-fkmr0

[nfpgasmask]

OK yeah, I definitely would want something like this. I don't need it to do anything other than jump me if for some reason the battery dies.

Bart

[vt_maverick]

We have the Duracell 600 Power pack. It's a similar animal, but does not actually have an air compressor on board, which would be handy, since we carry a separate compressor too. It's a 28aH AGM battery so we liked that it can handle vibration and won't spill and can jump start a V8.
http://www.amazon.com/Duracell-DPP-600HD-Powerpack-Starter-Emergency/dp/B000TKHMWK


FYI, this line of Duracell power packs also retail under a number of other different names (two I've seen are AC Delco and Eliminator, the last of which is linked earlier in this thread). I was originally after the AC Delco version that includes an air compressor, but I couldn't find one for under $150, which made the Cobra an easy decision.

[VX KAT]

FYI, this line of Duracell power packs also retail under a number of other different names (two I've seen are AC Delco and Eliminator, the last of which is linked earlier in this thread). I was originally after the AC Delco version that includes an air compressor, but I couldn't find one for under $150, which made the Cobra an easy decision.

I hadn't noticed the AC Delco or Eliminator, but I did find it from Xantrex (which I see Amazon's listing now even mentions....kind of like a joint venture or licensing agreement I guess). We use ours primarily when using our RV, but have found that it's easier to use it even around the garage....instead of grabbing a long extension cord....we just carry the Duracell where we want it and plug in the buffer, etc...

[nfpgasmask]

What about running a second, isolated battery behind some heavy duty relays?

Bart

[vt_maverick]

What about running a second, isolated battery behind some heavy duty relays?

Bart

Now you're over my head... :o

[nfpgasmask]

Now you're over my head... :o

Well, a lot of people do this I think. I don't personally know the specifics either, but basically you have two batteries. One is connected to your alternator like normal and then the other is connected to the main battery with an isolator or solenoid or heavy duty relay in between. All of their accessories (winch, lights, insane audio system) run off the 2nd battery. The 2nd battery charges while the vehicle is running but is disconnected when the vehicle is shut off. So if you run your lights with the truck off, then you don't drain the main battery. You can also use it for start power redundancy, which is what is most important to me.

I would love to know more about how to do this.

Bart

[vt_maverick]

I know SPAZZ put in a second battery, you can see the pics in his gallery. Maybe you could PM/email him for details? Unfortunately it sounds like he may be tied up with his garage sale situation though...

[VX KAT]

Now you're over my head... :o
Glad you said it first...:p