Accumate or Optimate?

[tvr-i-will-be]

In the run up to actually taking delivery of the Tam, I'm doing all things preparation-wise. Next to hit the top of the list is the battery conditioner.

I've read some threads with interest, where some PHers say that they've had absolutely no battery problems. Others have experienced otherwise.

Not wanting to take a chance, I've decided that I will get a conditioner. As work oft keeps me away from home I'll not be driving every day (even though when I do, I fully expect the Tam to be the daily driver).

Hence the question; what, if anything, is the difference between the Accumate and the Optimate? And who uses what, and with what success?

[lasertam]

I have used Accumate for 3 or so years. Both in my old Chim and now in the Tamora. No issues at all with the conditioner. Did have issues with the battery in the Tam (and the Chim for that matter) but neither was as a result of the Accumate. Mine is wired into the car, and the unit actually sits in the boot, and I just have to pull the plug out of the boot and plug it in. Piece of mind, just to know something will happen when you turn the key.

[Daftlad]

We use Optimate (only because that's what was available at the time.

Does what it says on the tin, and when not used, will bring a flat battery back to life - given time!

[steve11]

I thought it depended on what battery you are charging.

Accumate (up to 75 amp hours), Optimate (up to 28amp hours).

Car batteries are about 50 amp hours, hence i bought the accumate (works very well).

[richb]

Daftlad said:

We use Optimate (only because that's what was available at the time. Does what it says on the tin, and when not used, will bring a flat battery back to life - given time!

Indeed - Optimate was all they made up until a few years ago. Mine seems fine for my Griff's battery 70 amp hrs.

[tvr-i-will-be]

So it looks like either will do the job?

Thanks for the replies; I'll just look for the best deal on either. Some coming up on Ebay at a reasonable price.

[maddog-uk]

I have mine installed in the boot. I just fish the mains lead out when I need it and plug into my garage. I can check the make at the weekend.

[dvpeace]

Interestingly enough...

I had one fitted to my Tuscan, but never used it. The battery went flat when I left the lights on DOH! I could have done with some jump leads that day.

I was given a set of jump leads by the Dealer with my Sagaris, the argument being that they deal with all flat battery issues. You can easily get a jump start.

However, I have only used them to start other people's non TVR cars

[tvr-i-will-be]

I'm hoping that I won't need it, but I think I will get one just in case. Racing Green said they could fit it in the boot, so that's what I'll do.

I'm more concerned about the problems with getting into the car when the battery dies than I am about not being able to start it; I've bought some jump leads connectors that need fitting. Maybe I'm being belt and braces, but trying to get into this with eyes wide open!