I know this isn't a same comparison but I went cheap on replacement batteries for my Dewalt 20v tools once. They were like 80% less than the Dewalt brand . Two of the cheaper batteries caught fire right after heavy tool use and none of them had the same run time as the original. I inspected the batteries that caught fire they were made with thinner connecting plates between the cells. There are some cheaper replacements out there but it's hit or miss on finding good quality ones. Just like the tire issues of years passed.
For me, this would be to much of a risk for my expensive rig.
Doing more digging, I discovered that "The Lithium Battery Company" is the USA Branch of GSL Energy. Ish Monroe and Alton Jones have used these exact LiFePO4 cells for years (the 100AH version).
Alton's batteries: https://www.facebook.com/AltonJonesF...3697848178627/
Ish had Lithium Battery Co but I think switched to Smart Battery lithiums.
Have Ish or Alton had any battery issues in the last 3-5 years?
I'm leaning more toward placing an order and seeing what happens. If I do, I will report back and update this thread with timing, total cost, etc.
I’m also in the process of placing an order direct from China.Most Lithium Ion Batteries are already coming from there already.I can get a 12v 100ah for my Optimax a 12v 20ah for my electronics and A 36v 60ah for my fortrex for about the same price as one 36v in US. Shipping is DH for $250.
I'm seeing reports of not being able to wire these in series?
Not these specific batteries I should say. It might be dependent on the BMS maybe?
https://www.vmaxtanks.com/VPG12C-50L...ger_p_186.html
Saw it in a couple li-ion batteries on Amazon too. It was asked in the questions portion and rep said not to do it in series.
https://www.amazon.com/Renogy-Lithiu...031NHDF4XP9T5D
Last edited by BoatNoobie; 02-09-2019 at 12:42 AM.
Matthew Lardinios of Energized Outdoors posted on the Garmin ice fishing FB page a week ago that he has a 50ah battery coming out for less than $300. He said a 100ah battery is also in the works. A lot of guys with the Garmin panoptix live scope are buying his batteries to run their units while ice fishing.
I have had 3 14volt green life 50amp lifepo4 batteries for about a year. They work great and have never run them down no matter how much trolling i have done including holding in current at Guntersville all day. Were expensive, but I often ran low on 3 group 31's and is really nice to never have to worry about that anymore.
I would contact the owner, he can tell you everything you need to know. https://energizedoutdoors.com/
Keep in mind, your Chinese batteries when they fail to get possible replacement it might cost to ship your battery back for determination if they qualify. Even if they cost 50% less you could be without a replacement for months. The 2 most important factors in LiFePO4 batteries is quality of assembly and the BMS. The individual cells are made in China but the inspection and testing to determine which ones should be used or are marginal is another factor. You are flying blind and have little recourse if you have a problem. If they are assembled here you stand a better chance of good and lasting batteries and US law on your side for warranty issues. I would buy quality AGM,s for the prices you are paying for your Asian adventure. My 2 cents. Bob
Welp, I just placed my order for 2 12v-60ah GSL Lithium batteries. It came out to $756. After the CC fee, it's at about $780. We shall see how they work out. I actually don't even have a boat at the moment, lol.
At best, they work out great for years to come. At worst, boat burns down in a fiery blast.... That's what insurance is for, lol.