In the mountains and the heat we are flying XC in these next several days, every ounce of weight counts. With these batteries we will save over 7 POUNDS !!! That's equivalent to about 1.2 extra horse power!
Aircraft Log: Changed battery to Shorai Lithium Iron (not Lithium Ion). Model LFX21A6-BS12 12V Pb Eq Amp Hours 21, CCA (equivalent) 315 (better than prior). Eleven lb weight improvement! Better starting. $249.95 Henry did same. Tom, Ken had done prior- good results. Craig similar.
I have been using LiFe for a couple of years and the motorcycle folks a few more than that. You can use an ordinary auto charging system without damaging them although using a charger designed for them will add a bit more charge. What amazes me is the cold crank power from such a small package. A couple of cautions:
1. Be sure to use wire that is rated for your starter motor or expect to get some hot wires.
2. If you over charge an LiFe it will die. It does not have the thermal runaway problem but it takes very little excess voltage to kill one and they are very spendy.
Comments
In the mountains and the heat we are flying XC in these next several days, every ounce of weight counts. With these batteries we will save over 7 POUNDS !!! That's equivalent to about 1.2 extra horse power!
See HERE for more info.
When were trying to climb out of a little mountain grass strip in the heat, these could be worth their weight in gold.
Aircraft Log: Changed battery to Shorai Lithium Iron (not Lithium Ion). Model LFX21A6-BS12 12V Pb Eq Amp Hours 21, CCA (equivalent) 315 (better than prior). Eleven lb weight improvement! Better starting. $249.95 Henry did same. Tom, Ken had done prior- good results. Craig similar.
HI XC, I just read the info on the Battery... Fantastic. I am going to look at where we can get them in Aus.
Wow... maybe the factory should look at this battery option.
Will send email to AC and offer advice, sure is better for weight and the price appears reasonable.
Thanks for the research and posting.
I have been using LiFe for a couple of years and the motorcycle folks a few more than that. You can use an ordinary auto charging system without damaging them although using a charger designed for them will add a bit more charge. What amazes me is the cold crank power from such a small package. A couple of cautions:
1. Be sure to use wire that is rated for your starter motor or expect to get some hot wires.
2. If you over charge an LiFe it will die. It does not have the thermal runaway problem but it takes very little excess voltage to kill one and they are very spendy.
That's great you guys, thanks FlyDiver for the extra info. Many people confuse Lithium Iron (LiFe) and Lithium Ion (LiPo, etc). See HERE for more info