Battery Tester

[Nigella]

I'm wanting to purchase a digital battery tester because I have a lot of battery-related equipment and perform some work for others. I don't want a POS and would prefer to stay for around $100. Any recommendations? I despise having to remove the battery and take it to a parts store to be checked out. I was encouraged to hunt for an old Snap-on MT 1552, but that is a really hefty machine. In addition, there must be a motive to purchase another tool. Thanks.

 

[Beetle]

You most likely don't need a digital battery test station; an analog meter can be just as accurate or even accurater (new word). An analog meter with a good pivot and jewel movement should be rugged enough for most information you'd need.

 

[lmingua]

The digital capacitance testers by Midtronics work really well. I keep one in my service truck, (I am a diesel field mechanic), they are small and handy and haven't let me down. That said if you can find an old Sun VAT-40, they are awesome, but not as portable. The problem with A VAT-40 is they are old now, and IDK if the proprietary parts are available any more, Snap On bought Sun years ago, but I doubt if they still offer support.

 

[lmingua]

Edit to add: Just looked on the bay and saw used VAT 40s going for $500.00. Had no idea...

 

[Holydvr]

For measuring voltage only? Or load testing?

 

[whiteastro]

For measuring voltage only? Or load testing?

A combination of the both would be the best because the load test would tell you if the battery need replacing. Stay away from Harbor Freight !

 

[BenMara]

is the Schumacher BT-100 any good.... its on amazon with good reviews.

 

[whiteastro]

is the Schumacher BT-100 any good.... its on amazon with good reviews.

At the price they are asking I'd have my doubts on it's quality. It seems more like Harbor Freight quality. The reason I say that is because I wasted money on a Harbor Freight load tester. Don't get me wrong I buy a lot of stuff from that store and a lot of it is usable but that load tester was Junk Out of the Box. LOL

 

[Holydvr]

I have a Schumacher model mentioned above. It has worked well for what I have needed it for. But, I also have a few slightly bulky military generator test sets that you can do quite a bit with. They are technically portable, but best suited as having a spot in the garage if the need is great enough.

 

[Holydvr]

There are many variations of these, but they all do the same job. You can load test up to 500 amps if needed (if my memory serves) For some, it could be a good option.