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Which Battery Is Right for Your Tow Vehicle or Work Truck?
Some vehicles work harder than others. That is especially true for tow vehicles and heavy-duty work trucks. The battery you put into those vehicles can help ensure quick starts and continuous power when needed. Les Schwab has some quick tips to help you choose the right battery for your rig.
Find the Nearest Les Schwab for a Free Battery CheckWhy Battery Choice Matters for Towing and Work Use
The battery you put into a tow-rig or work truck matters. Frequent idling, rough terrain, hauling heavy loads, dozens of starts and stops every day, along with helping to power refrigeration and heating units as well as equipment such as winches, can be demanding.
Diesel trucks usually require a battery with higher cold cranking amps (CCA). If you have a fleet of trucks that must start every morning, even in the dead of winter, a deep-cycle AGM (absorbed glass mat) battery is ideal. These batteries have enough oomph to run infotainment and communication systems, phone chargers, power equipment, and everything else you might find in a work truck.
Les Schwab has what you need to keep your commercial and fleet services rolling along.
Shop BatteriesTowing Batteries: AGM vs. Lead-Acid vs. Lithium
Depending on what you drive, your battery choices include lead-acid, AGM, and lithium-ion. Each has its own set of advantages.
Lead-acid: This old-school, yet tried and true battery uses plates of lead and lead dioxide in a liquid electrolyte solution of sulfuric acid and water to create a chemical reaction that produces electrons. When they’re charging, that reaction works in reverse.
- Low upfront cost
- Widely available
- Proven technology
- Should be replaced every 3-5 years
AGM: Great for larger vehicles, including diesel trucks, these batteries work because electrolytes are absorbed into a fiberglass mat between several plates. While these batteries can be more expensive, they do provide enough cold-cranking amps for bigger rigs.
- Maintenance-free
- Spill-proof (fully contained)
- Deep-cycle tolerant (can be depleted completely and recharged with less risk of long-term damage)
- Withstands extreme temperatures
- Should be replaced every 3 years
Lithium-Ion: Lithium-Ion batteries are becoming more popular every day, thanks in part to their long lifespan. A few of the other reasons include.
- Extremely lightweight
- Consistent output (even as the battery ages)
- Deep cycle performance
- Exceptional CCA
Please Note: lithium-Ion batteries require battery management systems that are vastly different from conventional lead-acid batteries. Never attempt to replace a conventional lead-acid battery with a lithium-Ion (or a lithium-ion battery with a lead-acid battery) without professional assistance.
Find the battery that’s right for your work and tow rig at Les Schwab.
Schedule your battery checkWhat Specs Really Matter for Tow Vehicles and Work Trucks
Sure, you want a battery that will start your vehicle every single time. But, you also want that battery to work with your alternator, fit in the battery box, and have the power to run winches, liftgates, and more when the engine is off. Items to consider include:
Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): The battery you choose should match the CCA set by the manufacturer of your work vehicles and diesel trucks. The higher the CCA rating, the more power the battery will have to turn the engine over, even in freezing temperatures.
Reserve Capacity: Tow vehicles and work trucks need a battery that can power headlights, trailer controls (braking and indicators), as well as radios and more if the alternator fails or the engine is off.
Vibration Resistance: Anytime you are going off-road or through rough worksites, a battery with some protection against vibration can help prolong its overall life.
Deep Cycle Capability: Batteries in tow vehicles and work trucks are often used to power electronics and equipment (including trailer accessories) when the truck is turned off. This can drain the battery. A battery with deep cycle capability means you can drain and recharge that battery often without causing much damage.
Terminal Location (size): The battery you choose should fit in the battery box or on the tray. It should also work with and be compatible with your vehicle’s wiring.
Matching the Battery to Your Towing Needs
Towing a camper or work trailer, or simply driving around in a work rig, requires a tough 12-volt battery. Some of the more common battery needs for a tow vehicle or work truck include:
Cold Weather Performance: The CCA should match or exceed your vehicle specifications. Learn more about vehicle batteries and cold-weather performance.
Powering Accessories: If you’re running a lot of equipment, whether on your trailer or from the truck, choose a battery to match your needs.
Frequent Idling and Start/Stops: Most batteries sold today will perform for work trucks and tow vehicles. Make sure you have enough CCA and reserve capacity.
Les Schwab carries the right battery for whatever you drive.
Schedule Your AppointmentInstallation and Compatibility Made Easy
Les Schwab carries batteries for nearly anything you drive, including tow and work vehicles. Before we sell you a battery, we’ll check your old one with the latest testing equipment. If you do need a new battery or batteries (for some diesel rigs), our professionals have the training and equipment to install them without affecting your vehicle’s electronic systems.
Warranties and Support You Can Count On
The battery you buy at Les Schwab comes with our exceptional battery warranty. That warranty covers your purchase for up to seven years, along with free charging and battery checks.
Shop BatteriesExpert Advice and Free Battery Checks at Les Schwab
The right battery won’t leave you stranded. When you need a battery for your tow vehicle or work truck, including vans, get to your local Les Schwab. Our professionals have the tools and training to check the battery you have and make recommendations for what you need. Schedule an appointment today.
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