Odyssey Batteries going on us??? - Page 7

scard · #61 01-01-2014, 07:57 PM

yup, so easy. No real engineering to be done. Voltage and rate is so terribly easy. A couple more days to a usable weekend to tinker with some relays on a load.

David-aviator · #62 01-02-2014, 07:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JordanGrant

I just ended my first discharge cycle - the battery was down to less than 9 volts (open circuit). I didn't even know it would get that low.

I've taken mine down to 3-4 volts forgetting the master switch while installing and setting up the GR Sport EFIS. The recharge with the Odyssey Ultimizer was interesting. The charger would take it up serval volts at a time and quit with a red flashing warning the battery had internal problems. I turned it off and started over several times and when the charge got up to 10 volts or so, it took it all way way to 14-15 volts with no more charging failures.

I do not think the battery was harmed, just needed to be coddled a bit to bring it back to life. It cranks the Lycoming with vigor and recharges quickly on the alternator.

db1yg · #63 01-02-2014, 08:24 AM

I used a 12 volt automotive headlight (40/60) on the low beam to discharge my newest battery--(ocv 10 v or lower) and then an Odyssey Ultimizer to bring it back. Ran 6 cycles on the newest battery (less than one year old) and gave up--it would take a charge (indicated 13+volts) but it would only bump the prop. I sent that one back to battery mart.

I then pulled the older battery off the storage shelf, ran it through the rejuvenation process and it is being used in the aircraft now (works good) while I wait on the return from BatteryMart.

I agree with Tom---something is not right here with some or all of the latest batch of Odysseys.

Cheers,
db

JordanGrant · #64 01-03-2014, 08:11 AM

So I wrote an e-mail to Enersys asking about the Odysseys. They were very responsive, writing me back first thing the next day. According to the company, "There have been no changes to the PC680 battery by design or material." They also offered to take my battery back and replace it with a new one so they can investigate. I told them that I'm first going to do due diligence and try to restore this one with desulfation procedures, but if it doesn't work I'll take them up on it.

Cheers,

LifeofReiley · #65 01-03-2014, 09:02 AM

Maybe they should read this thread... something HAS changed for sure.

Rotorheadrob · #66 01-03-2014, 11:40 AM

Good thread.

My Odyssey Battery is weak too. Was wondering if it was unique to my batt. Only a couple years old.

It gets put on an Odyssey Optimiser between flights also.

Figured I'd go with the Odyssey batt charger to maintain the charge would be best but, there I go think'n again.

Sounds like cycling it a few times is in its future.

DanBaier · #67 01-03-2014, 04:35 PM

My PC 680 is about 7 years old and has had two "left the master on" episodes. Still running great. But, I'm probably on borrowed time and I'm sure it won't be long until a replacement would be a good idea.

Before this thread, I would have recommended one without hesitation, but now I'm not so sure.

So, what's plan B? Is there anything else with the footprint of the Odyssey that is a viable substitute? Or, do we have to break out the building skills and make room for a Concorde?

Dan

JordanGrant · #68 01-03-2014, 06:30 PM

I asked Enersys about my charger. I have an Accumate Pro that has an "Odyssey" mode for charging AGM batteries. Here is the response:

"The Accumate charger is a great charger and we fully support this charger and its effective recharge and float charge of ODYSSEY PowerSport battery models.
Do not leave this charge connected to a battery without being plugged into AC utility power, as the charge will discharge the battery."

That second bit was interesting. I never would have thought that the charger would discharge the battery just because it wasn't plugged into AC. I think I've done this before - left it plugged into the battery but not the wall. That could be a contributing factor to my issues. And I'm definitely not giving up on Odyssey yet. As with any technology, there are some pitfalls with user error and maintenance required. If I can bring it back with some desulfating procedures and learn something about taking care of the battery, then all's well that ends well.

gbusterguy · #69 01-03-2014, 06:40 PM

I still use my original PC 680 now about 7yrs old to run a sprayer pump and as a back up for running a trolling motor, it still works great. It has never had any special treatment other than a float charge during periods of non use. My new (less than 2yr old) PC 680 does not seem to be the same battery. It's noticeably weaker already, barely swinging the prop. What's different???

Robert Anglin · #70 01-03-2014, 07:00 PM

I have been reading this and would like to ask if anyone knows if these units have been made in China. Or if they have moved to a China based lead use. I have noted that a trend to having to switch to China made lead products has been growing over the last two-three years. And I don't know if I like that idea. Thanks guys. Yours as always R.E.A. III #80888