Battery Tenders but which one?

wrogers55 · #1 (**permalink**) 04-01-2020, 01:47 PM

I finally need a battery tender not a charger but tender. Been putting it off for years but the time has come. Not looking too cheap out on this so don't hold back. Recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

jetblue69 · #2 (**permalink**) 04-01-2020, 01:55 PM

Afternoon Wayne...

I have both the 021-123 (3/4A) and the 021-128 (1.25A) and they're about $30 and $50 respectively. I think they also have a waterproof one if you plug your car in outside (I doubt you leave it outside). I use the .75A on my Mustang and the 1.25A on the Cobra, they both work great! I like the 3/4A a tad better since it's more portable...

rads42 · #3 (**permalink**) 04-01-2020, 01:56 PM

I have the actual brand "battery tender" and its been great.

Lou1119 · #4 (**permalink**) 04-01-2020, 02:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rads42

I have the actual brand "battery tender" and its been great.

I second that I have been using one since 1986. Have only had to replace it once.

twobjshelbys · #5 (**permalink**) 04-01-2020, 02:50 PM

Battery Tender Jr. Works great. Had one on my Ford GT for 8 years. Factory battery lasted 7 on the tender.

letsboogie351 · #6 (**permalink**) 04-01-2020, 03:00 PM

I use a small solar panel trickle charger placed in the garage window. Works very well. And, it won't break the bank

EM-0785 · #7 (**permalink**) 04-01-2020, 03:34 PM

Battery Tender brand, really do like it. Can find model later if interested.

For access, if helpful...

Initially with battery & cutoff switch front and center behind bulkhead, attached with nuts, dropped capped lead through access hole in vinyl trunk panel into trunk. When connected, cord ran under gently set trunk lid with soft cloth.

Currently moved battery & cut-off to rear pass side of trunk. Created an access hole out beneath at rear and dropped/fastened the capped lead tight below trunk for anytime access without opening the trunk.

Brent

Mike I · #8 (**permalink**) 04-01-2020, 04:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by wrogers55

I finally need a battery tender not a charger but tender. Been putting it off for years but the time has come. Not looking too cheap out on this so don't hold back. Recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

You don't mention the type of battery installed in your car. If it's lead acid, then any of the units previously mentioned will do fine. If you have an AGM type battery, you'll need something like the BatteryMINDer Model 2012-AGM, which will cost a bit more.

ERA174 · #9 (**permalink**) 04-01-2020, 04:38 PM

I have the CTEK US 7002 (Part no: 56-353) and Battery Tender 10 watt Solar, both work well for me and can be hooked up for long periods. I use the solar panel in my spare daily driver, which is left outside, I've tried the 2 watt solar panels and they don't have enough capacity for my vehicles. The CTEK is used on my garaged vehicles when left for extended storage or to recarge a neglected battery.
https://mechanicbase.com/reviews/bes...tery-chargers/
https://earthtechling.com/solar-car-battery-chargers/
https://www.batterytender.com/10-Wat...-in-Controller

legenmetals · #10 (**permalink**) 04-01-2020, 04:47 PM

I have used Battery tender and C-Tek. I only buy C-Tek now.

Unique427 · #11 (**permalink**) 04-02-2020, 07:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mike I

You don't mention the type of battery installed in your car. If it's lead acid, then any of the units previously mentioned will do fine. If you have an AGM type battery, you'll need something like the BatteryMINDer Model 2012-AGM, which will cost a bit more.

Battery Tender Plus is compatible with AGM and gel.

jetblue69 · #12 (**permalink**) 04-02-2020, 08:55 AM

Yeah sorry, I should have mentioned that those were actual "Battery Tender" part numbers and they'll work with any style battery!

Mike I · #13 (**permalink**) 04-02-2020, 12:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Unique427

Battery Tender Plus is compatible with AGM and gel.

I just reviewed the specs and description of the BT+, it does not mention AGM compatibility, and the reviews on Amazon are atrocious.

wrogers55 · #14 (**permalink**) 04-02-2020, 07:29 PM

OP, Thanks guys. Really appreciate this site and the immediate help, as always. I have ordered the CTEK (56-353) MULTI US 7002 and hope it's more than I need. Hard to believe there are so many choices and features (which will probably never be used) in the tiny world of battery tenders! ALL responses much appreciated. Great group of guy, as always.

jetblue69 · #15 (**permalink**) 04-03-2020, 09:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mike I

I just reviewed the specs and description of the BT+, it does not mention AGM compatibility, and the reviews on Amazon are atrocious.

Well, i have AGM batteries in all my vehicles and I've had the small charger almost 10 years and the 1.25A version 5 years now with ZERO issues! I don't use the 1.25A all the time but the .75A is plugged in 24/7... I'd take the validity of an Amazon review with a grain of salt! Look, I don't want to turn this into a pissing contest but I actually own them AND use them. Just my honest 2 cents but everyone is entitled to their own opinion.

Moriarty · #16 (**permalink**) 04-03-2020, 10:00 AM

I've been using BLACK+DECKER BM3B and it's been hassle free.

twobjshelbys · #17 (**permalink**) 04-03-2020, 10:58 AM

Almost all of them are made by CTEK or Battery Tender. I have a Interstate Battery that is a rebranded BT.

Unique427 · #18 (**permalink**) 04-03-2020, 11:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mike I

I just reviewed the specs and description of the BT+, it does not mention AGM compatibility, and the reviews on Amazon are atrocious.

Direct cut and paste from their product
description within "Additional Information" :

"Perfect for all lead-acid, flooded or sealed maintenance free batteries (AGM and gel cell)."

https://www.batterytender.com/Battery-TenderR-Plus

Have 2 and used them for years without issue.
I use the 24v version BatteryMinder on
aircraft.