Wal-Mart Batteries

[WTP-GC]

While this post is related to my boat batteries, they are the same batteries used for RV applications.

Yesterday, I pulled the 4 batteries out of my flats boat to replace them.
2 each dual purpose group 24 (house batteries) - dated 2/11
2 each deep cycle group 24 (trolling motor) - dated 3/12

I have added water to these batteries one time in my recollection during my entire ownership. It's been a couple of months since I used the boat, but the last time I did, all batteries worked flawlessly. I always put a trickle charger on them before using, and they would reach a full charge state in less than 6 hours. I never ran them dead. The only reason I'm replacing them is because I figure 7 years is long enough to rely on a $65 battery for a saltwater boat.

The point of this post is just to share information about a good experience I've had with batteries that many people would not even consider. And since this is a flat bottom boat, it has a rough ride and those batteries have been very well beaten. I'll be headed back to Wal-Mart today to get new ones...hopefully these batteries weren't a fluke 😉

[SidecarFlip]

Any retailer that has a large turnover in wet charged batteries will be good. Remember, a wet charged battery sitting on the shelf collecting dust waiting for a buyer to purchase it is getting old and sufating itself toward extinction.

I always buy my batteries (wet charged) at a volume dealer. Dry charged batteries don't count. They start their life when you add the electrolyte.

Never buy a battery from the local Auto parts store unless it's a discount AP outlet. They have a high turnover as well.

[sgfrye]

i use wally world batteries in truck, motorcyle, boat, rv. properly maintain them and they give great service..

[wa8yxm]

I have a mix of Batteries here. Some are Wal-Mart (I think 2) others are well the big ones are DEKA (made 100% in the USA by the way)

The only "Bad" thing I can say about Wal*mart batteries is not so much about the batteries as it is Wal*Mart

If you look at the amp-hour capacity Wal*mart indicates they test "At the 1 amp rate" The standard rading we use here in the forum is the "20 hour rate)

For Group 24 batteries that is 3.75 amps not 1 amp
So what is the difference.
20 hour rate 75 amp hours
1 amp rate over 100
It makes their batteries look "Bigger" than they really are.

Finally I have looked for Trolling batteries at WM and not found 'em. MARINE/Deep cycle I find. And I see Trolling advertised, but no joy finding them.

[Dutch_12078]

Just about all Walmart lead-acid batteries are made by either Johnson Controls or East Penn. The same two companies that make Die Hard, Interstate, Deka, NAPA, and numerous other branded batteries. They both make quality products.

[soren]

RVhiker wrote:
I've been using Walmart batteries for years in my fifth wheel (27DC) and in vehicles. Everybody had warned me away from them, especially mechanics wanting to sell me their preferred shop brand. However, I've gotten good service from them, with the exception of one 27DC that was dead when new and exchanged with no problem.

I had do warranty claims on three different high end batteries supplied by my favorite repair shop. One was in a Dodge Intrepid, where the battery was located in the fender well of the car, and unpleasant to remove. After that mess I switched to buying low cost batteries at Wal-Mart or the big national auto part stores, and haven't had a problem in ten years.

[Ron3rd]

Put a Walmart battery in the wife's Traverse about 3 years ago. Best bang for the buck I could find. No problems

[paddykernahan]

Used Walmart batteries in two of my cars.
Read about 8 years ago that Walmart batteries were the best bang for the buck.
Have had no problems with them.
I replace at 5 years while they are still good.
Will buy again.

[Tvov]

I just put a Walmart battery in my truck. Couldn't resist after doing price shopping. If it gives me 5 years I will be thrilled.

[Jack_Spratt]

Another satisfied customer here

[RVhiker]

I've been using Walmart batteries for years in my fifth wheel (27DC) and in vehicles. Everybody had warned me away from them, especially mechanics wanting to sell me their preferred shop brand. However, I've gotten good service from them, with the exception of one 27DC that was dead when new and exchanged with no problem.

[2112]

I use the Walmart 27DC in my FW and boats. They generally last 6-7 years for me. I have deep discharged the trolling battery a few times and didn't seem to affect it.

I condition charge them to 15V at least once a year