battery charger recommendations?

[demonspeed]

I'm Thinking of getting my dad a battery charger for Christmas this year. (A charger, not a battery tender) does anyone have any recommendations for a somewhat affordable, quality charger? Or any ideas on what features I should look for specifically?

I'd like a roll-around charger with a few different speeds/charging options. My snap-on guy said he could sell me a blue point charger for $240 but that seemed like a bit much. We have some carquest chargers at work that are decent but I haven't done much research on them.

I'm thinking of aiming for the $100-$200 dollar range but I could go above that if needed. He has a few different cars, some are modern, some are older. All are 12v but a 6v option would be nice for future projects. Are there any that will charge car batteries and lawn mower/snow blower batteries? That would be great too. Thanks guys

 

[paullie]

i got one at sams club a few years ago and works fine.

http://www.samsclub.com/sams/schumacher-electric-wheel-charger/195257.ip?sprodId=195257


no 6v but i have a small old one that has 12/6v already

 

[maks8489]

NAPA part number 85-1250. On sale through the end of the year for $129.00, hell of a deal.

 

[chevy.stroker]

For inexpensive I like these two from Schumacher because they are "smart" chargers. They will charge the AGM batteries properly without damage.

http://www.walmart.com/ip/Schumache...ainer-Engine-Start-and-Tester-80-Amp/15167354

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006PAGJXQ/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[demonspeed]

For inexpensive I like these two from Schumacher because they are "smart" chargers. They will charge the AGM batteries properly without damage.

http://www.walmart.com/ip/Schumache...ainer-Engine-Start-and-Tester-80-Amp/15167354

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006PAGJXQ/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Wow I really like both of those. Is one better than the other? The roll around seems to have more power.

 

[chevy.stroker]

Not a lot of difference in specs. The larger one will get you to the 75% charge faster since it can put out as much as 55 amps. It sort of depends upon how you are going to use it/store it.The wheel around is great for a shop, but may not be as convenient if you are going to use it as a float charger (e.g. trickle charge a battery in a show car that sits for long periods). Limited space in a garage also means the smaller one can be thrown on a shelf. My guess is the solid state circuitry in both is very similar.

If you do a lot of jump starting then the big one has 150 Amps of starting power.

I think you would be happy with either, but it is probably more of a form factor choice in the end.

 

[joecon]

check out R&N chsrgers there made in usa and the price isn't bad.

 

[BAZZMAZZA]

Check out CTEK chargers. They are quality chargers and in your price range.

http://smartercharger.com/

 

[JASTECH]

You would want one that has a Desulfator option also, this will make a big difference in your batteries. After 90-days Wal-Fart won't deal with you and direct you to Mfg. I have a few Schumacher's, Battery Minder's ect. Noco is a very good quality chargers/maintainers ect.

 

[vssjim]

USAbatterychergers.com is Rizk web site, you will probably be talking to the owner or family member when you call. Great people and great products