Changing batteries ?

[Bigmon]

I have at least 1 maybe 2 batteries that need replacing. Is it best just to do all 4? Which of the batteries start truck? Is there anything to reset afterwards since there will be a temporary power shortage?

[Windwalker]

I have at least 1 maybe 2 batteries that need replacing. Is it best just to do all 4? Which of the batteries start truck? Is there anything to reset afterwards since there will be a temporary power shortage?
When I had my own truck, I would replace the ones that were going bad or getting weak, rather than replacing all four. I don't believe there are any trucks out anymore that have split-service on the batteries. But,even with that, if you have 4 batteries, and the truck is only using 2 when it is running, it will still be using all 4 when cranking.

And, as to what to reset... The clocks. Any clocks you have inside that are powered by the batteries will either reset themselves to 12:00 (digital), or stop running while the power is off. Beyond that, I have never heard of anything needing to be reset in the ECM or anything like that.

[solo379]

How old is those batteries? Normally, I'd recommend all 4, it's safer that way....
And no, you don't need a "reset" anything, but the clock....

[Bigmon]

The batteries are all the same but, one of the batteries is a 2006. Not sure about the others because the stickers are gone. Gonna take them to Autozone this weekend and have them tested. The batteries are Interstate, btw.

[heavyhaulerss]

the batteries can test good today & next month go out. I always replace all my 4 at the same time. though I'M one of those guy's who replace both wiper blades at same time also. when I park my truck I want to have as much peace of mind as possible knowing the likelyhood that my truck will start.

[solo379]

The batteries are all the same but, one of the batteries is a 2006. Not sure about the others because the stickers are gone.
So it's about 3 years old, and i get it's not you, who put it in service? I'd go with all 4....

[Larry227]

If you don't replace them all it doesn't take long for all four to only be as strong as the weakest one you left in. Your call.

[Maniac]

If you don't replace them all it doesn't take long for all four to only be as strong as the weakest one you left in. Your call.




Yep, road calls usually start at around $100.00.

I change all 4 after they make it thru 3 winters, I don't care how they check out, 3 winters.......... they are GONE

[heavyhaulerss]

I think it's unanimous

[allan5oh]

The problem is if you change only 3, and the fourth one internally shorts a week later guess what happens? It completely drains the 3 new batteries.

Completely draining batteries absolutely kills them. Even brand new ones.

[solo379]

I think it's unanimous
And who said, that truckers, can't agree on anything!

[Bigmon]

OK. 4 it will be.

[Jumbo]

If you have presets on your radio you are going to have to program them back in also. I also concur one the four batteries. And put some electrical grease on the terminals when you put them back on.

[Larry227]

If you want to save your radio settings you can get one of these (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Computer-Memory-Keeper-Auto-Engine-Repair-Tools_W0QQitemZ170300478518QQcmdZViewItemQQimsxZ20 090207?IMSfp=TL090207137008r30951). Just hook a 9v battery to it and plug it in the cigar lighter right before you unhook your batteries. Just make sure it's a lighter that has constant power with the key off.

[Bigmon]

Thanks guys. That's a neat device Larry. I don't use the radio much so don't haven anything programmed.

My problem now is getting it started. It cranks but won't fire. I know there are many things to diagnose for starting problems so I'll be getting dirty this week.

[solo379]

I know there are many things to diagnose for starting problems
9 out of 10, it's fuel...Good luck!

[Fredog]

9 out of 10, it's fuel...Good luck!

before you get too involved, take off the fuel filters and fill them up, then try a little ether while someone cranks it( just a little)

[Fredog]

the new optima batteries are great and have a 5 year warranty

[Kranky]

Thanks guys. That's a neat device Larry. I don't use the radio much so don't haven anything programmed.

My problem now is getting it started. It cranks but won't fire. I know there are many things to diagnose for starting problems so I'll be getting dirty this week.

Some trucks power the ECM via a wire direct from the positive side of the batteries, and if this isn't reconnected properly, the ECM gets no power and the engine will never start.

Were there any small (12 or 14 gauge) wires hooked up to the positive side of the batteries?

If so, make sure said wire(s) were replaced securely at the correct connection point, and make sure the terminals are clean and bright before reconnecting.

.

[Bigmon]

Truck is running. It turns out one of the battery cables wasn't hooked up properly.

[allan5oh]

Kranky, on my truck there is also an ECM negative as well.