Topic: looking for a gel cell

[broken79ford]

hi all, looks like alot has changed since I was here last. I am looking to replace the standard wet battery in my "80 cb650 with a maintenance free type, anyone know where I can find one? most places tell me that they don't make one of this type, but I find that hard to believe.

thanks,
Brad

[nomath]

hi all, looks like alot has changed since I was here last. I am looking to replace the standard wet battery in my "80 cb650 with a maintenance free type, anyone know where I can find one? most places tell me that they don't make one of this type, but I find that hard to believe.

thanks,
Brad

I use an Odyssey PC680JM in my 'wing (http://www.odysseybatteries.com/battery/pc680mj.htm ).  I'm not sure it'll fit your CB650 as their site only lists the CB750A.  Dimensions are shown on the page. 

The batter is pretty expensive, but is extremely high quality.

doug

[eldar]

Well here is info about batterys. Type does NOT matter! If it is 12 volts and is the appropriate amp rating for your bike and fits the MAX dimensions, it will work fine. I got one that was configured differently than what my 750 would normally use. It had the same ratings and was a bit smaller. Worked fine with no problems. Again look to see if it will fit max dimensions, voltage and amp rating.

[nomath]

Well here is info about batterys. Type does NOT matter! If it is 12 volts and is the appropriate amp rating for your bike and fits the MAX dimensions, it will work fine. I got one that was configured differently than what my 750 would normally use. It had the same ratings and was a bit smaller. Worked fine with no problems. Again look to see if it will fit max dimensions, voltage and amp rating.

When I said "fit" I meant physically.  As far as "type does not matter" - I've had pretty lousy luck with several wet cell units.  Everything from dying in a very short time (despite charging and testing as per MFG spec) to cell filler caps breaking.  I bought the PC680MJ because it is maintenance free, produced a healthy number of amps, has a great warranty, and the body is encased in a steel jacket (MIL spec).

It has worked well for me so far.

doug

[eldar]

Problems like that come many times from excessive vibration. If you put dense foam around the battery sides and bottom, that vibration will be minimized.

[nomath]

Problems like that come many times from excessive vibration. If you put dense foam around the battery sides and bottom, that vibration will be minimized.

I'm sure they do, but both of these were installed in my '83 Goldwing so I'm pretty sure vibration didn't kill them.  Not much vibration on a 'wing.

The original post asked about a gel cell.  I suggested a similar unit (dry glass mat cell) that worked for me and why I thought that was true.  Your mileage may vary.

[broken79ford]

thanks, i'll be checking into them shortly

[Clyde]

I just installed a Deka sealed battery made in the US, which uses a matt glass construction and is designed to be maintenace free.
It is double the price, but if it lasts longer and does not leak I will be happy