Starting and Charging

An Optima battery is a specialized battery favored for use in heavy duty conditions such as off-roading, racing, audio competition or constant service and emergency vehicle use. They are a "dry" or gel battery as opposed to the standard liquid/acid battery found in most vehicles and as such, can be mounted in a number of positions (sideways, etc.). Also, they do not require any maintenance and will not leak if punctured. The "red top" is for most applications whereas the "yellow top" is for deep-cycle applications (repeated cylcles of full discharge/charge).

They usually have a lifespan of 2-3 years and have a tendency to die in cold weather and the stock batteries are notoriously weak.

Consider replacing your stock battery with an Optima Gel battery if you off-road. Generally, the "red top" model is chosen, unless you run large stereo systems where a "yellow top" (or deep cycle) is used.

When charging, your battery posts should read 14.3v DC with the engine running.

With a DMM (Digital Multi-Meter) measure the DC voltage at the battery terminals while the engine is running. You should see a nominal voltage of 14.3v.

If you're having issues, check your battery as well. They usually have a lifespan of 2-3 years and have a tendency to die in cold weather and the stock batteries are notoriously weak. Consider replacing your stock battery with an Optima Gel battery if you off-road.