How to Get the Best Out of Your Truck Batteries

It is no exaggeration to say that a trip to the battery suppliers for new batteries for your truck is an expensive undertaking. Sometimes, it’s unavoidable. If you have had the same battery or set of batteries for a few years and they’re showing signs of wear and tear or poor performance, then it could be that buying new will save you hours of trouble and expense too if you can’t get your truck or van started and need to call the recovery services. 

So how do you make sure you get the best deal if you do have to buy new batteries?

Prolonging the Life of Your Truck Battery

• First, when you’re looking for truck parts, like batteries, for instance, it pays to buy from a reputable supplier who stocks the big names when it comes to truck accessories and supplies. That way, you start off with a product that’s built well and built to last. It’s a false economy to buy cheap parts – they simply won’t last as long. If there’s a manufacturer recommended brand, stick to that if possible.

• Avoid repeated short journeys. Just like a car battery, your truck or van battery uses a lot of power in just starting the engine. The longer you run the engine, the more charge you’re putting back in the battery. But if you only drive short distances between each stop, then you’re gradually reducing the battery voltage to the point where it will no longer start the truck. Drive often and for longer periods. If repeated short journeys are typical, consider investing in a battery charger from a truck accessories supplier so you can keep the battery topped up.

• Check the connectors and connections regularly. First, there’s the problem of vibration as the truck’s in motion that could shorten the battery life, so make sure the clamp is tightened sufficiently to keep it as steady as possible. Then, check the battery terminals. These can corrode over time. Brushing off any corrosion with an old toothbrush will help remove the build-up that will almost certainly reduce the battery’s life. Use a mix of baking soda and water if necessary then rinse off with cold water and dry thoroughly.

• Check the voltage of the battery monthly. The longer it’s left discharged, partially or fully, the shorter time it’s going to last overall. If the voltage is below the recommended level, recharge it as soon as possible. Invest in a multimeter to do this – it’s a lot cheaper than a new set of batteries!

• And finally, try to minimise the battery’s exposure to heat in summer. Heat does real damage to batteries as it speeds up the rate of evaporation of water in the battery’s cells. You may seem to experience more problems with batteries in winter, but it’s hot weather that really does the damage. Park in the shade or in a garage if possible when the truck’s not in use in hot weather.

For replacement truck parts and supplies, including batteries from household name manufacturers, and for plant machinery, lorry and van parts in Shrewsbury, come to Shropshire Truck and Trailer Parts Ltd. We also sell brakes and clutches, lighting supplies and tools.