Battery charger recommendations - Dayton??

[John in OH]

For years I used a Schauer (sp??) portable battery charger, but due to abuse on my part I killed it. Spent $75 on a new Century (made in China) charger that lasted a total of 6 uses before it died - what a POS!!

I use the charger to keep my 6v antique tractor batteries charged, an occasional 12v battery, and for occasional starting. Would prefer a portable unit, but would consider a wheeled shop-type.

I've been looking around for a decent replacement and see that WR Grainger sells Dayton chargers. Does anyone have experience with the Dayton line of chargers? Any other suggestions? I'd rather spend a few extra bucks to get something reliable (and made in US, if such a thing even exists!!).

 

[Junkman]

Hunt down an older used one at a yard sale. I have one that is about 40 years old and it is still going strong. Seems that almost everything is coming from China, and it is all ****. Do what I do.... avoid all made in China products and buy used USA or new made somewhere that there is some pride in manufacturing. Junk..

 

[KnightFire]

I've successfully used Battery Minder for several years, their a trickle charge type, that will NOT fry your battery...no matter how long their used. I use the BatteryMinder 12117 Model:
http://www.batteryweb.com/batteryminder-details.cfm?model=12117

For normal battery chargers, I like and use the Schumacher line, I personally use the SSC-1500A model.
http://www.batteryweb.com/schumacher-charger-detail.cfm?Model=SSC-1500A

Batteryweb.com is a good source for both of these products...I've had nothing but good luck with their products and company...customer service is top notch (I've had to return 2 Optimas to them, they never gave me a problem).

HTH

 

[george4]

I have an ancient cheap one from Sears, 2/10 amp, box is rusted on outside but it works fine. Does not take long to get a dead battery charged enough for use at 10 amp. Used it many times as a power source for electrolytic rust removal also (10 amp). Some people would argue that a Snap on would be better.

 

[PAToyota]

Like you, I have a Century that is about worthless. I've been using one of the Battery Tender (trickle) chargers for my motorcycle battery and am pretty pleased with it. They make actual chargers as well and I'm thinking about getting one of those based on my experience with the little one.

 

[1320stang]

Also look at Schumacher.

 

[MAD]

I have owned a Schumacher charger for several years that has had no problems. The one I have was made in Mexico.

here is a link to a similar thread from a few weeks ago:
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=10709