I just learned the Trojan L16RE-2V are now called the SPRE-02-1255. Maybe because they now have ’smart carbon’ technology.
I have been trying to make a decision on batteries, for quite some time now. Luckily my old 2 volt Davidsons have been putting off the inevitable.
Anyway, my question(s) are, does anyone use the Trojan 2 volt L16 style batteries in their 24v battery bank? How have they done?
One more thing, just today I was offered some TAB tubular 2 volt batteries. Price is about the same as 2 volt L16’s but the local(ish) seller says he has had excellent results and feedback on them for many years. I didn’t know about the tubular FLA’s. Anyone have any insight into them?
Thank you.
People I know who have had good success with durable long lasting lead acid batteries get the East Penn Deka forklift type batteries. They are built to meet rugged service demands.
They come in a large metal enclosure and the kind my friends have are two volt cells with studs so they can be pulled out with straps otherwise you would need a forklift to move that battery pack. The other type of forklift batteries the connecting straps are sealed in each cell so they can't be removed.
You may want to price that battery pack compared to the L16 .
I think they are this type http://www.eastpenn-deka.com/assets/base/epm0705.pdf
Larry
Thanks, will check them out.
One major annoyance I have with the previous model L16-2V batteries is that they still had 3 cells with 3 caps.
What is the point of having 2 volt units if you still have to water them as if they were 6 volt units?
We don't play around with L16s any more. Industrial (fork lift style) batteries only. We mostly prefer the ones with welded (poured lead) jumpers anyway because not so many bolted connections to corrode. Rent a tractor of some type to move them in and your back will thank you.
Al, I would see if your TAB supplier can provide some usage information and compare that with your personal usage. If radically different I would be cautious. If similar they may be a good fit for you...
My single cell 2V's are 175 # per .... it takes a bit of creativity to move and assemble a 12 cell battery into a 3 row, 4 column configuration.
Oh I forgot the gallon of sweat too!
BTW In 2013 my bank was 5 years old (out of 7 year Manufacturer warranty) from a backup telecom power system demob. It has had some rough handling over the 5 years since installation but not showing any significant deficiency so far so our use must be compatible with standby design. looking at LIFePO4 unit next.