Date:         Tue, 26 Aug 2008 11:24:26 -0800
Reply-To:     colorworks@GCI.NET
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Troy <colorworks@GCI.NET>
Subject:      Odyssey batteries
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1

I thought that I would pass this along, as I saw mention of the Odyssey battery a few days ago. Several years ago when it came time to put a battery in my Westy, I looked at the Go Westy web page. They recommended the Odyssey, so I went ahead and purchased one for close to $200. I found out rather quickly that the manufacturers rating of 44AH was optimistic to say the least. I would put this battery closer to 30AH.

Second, because this is an AGM battery, it requires 14.4 V to charge it to 100% capacity. Repeated under charging, will bring that to amp hour rating down even further. I was just told recently by the battery seller that the 1200 isn't even designed as a deep cycle battery, but rather a starting battery, which is not what Go Westy suggests.

Anyway, I brought my battery back hoping to get a replacement or refund. The battery has a two-year warranty, with only a one-year replacement. The second year is prorated. Since I had only two months left on my warranty, I got a whopping $14 back, and an argument from the vendor besides.

I think it was Dennis Hayes who said the best thing about Odyssey batteries is their advertisement-- I totally agree. For anyone looking for an auxiliary battery, I would steer very clear of anything with the Odyssey name on it. Absolute junk IMO. I sure learned my lesson.

Troy