Battery tender for dummies - what do I need to know?

[lazarus870]

In the upcoming months, due to the weather, I will be driving infrequently and I want to get a battery tender to ensure the battery does not die.

Is there a simple system where I connect alligator clips to + and - terminals and plug it into the wall?

Would I just unclip and drive away if i wanted to go on a daily driver and then clip back on when not in use again?

Is there any special consideration into which tender to buy for the Mustang?

Thank you

Sponsored

 

[jasonstang]

The battery on the mustang is not exposed and the battery terminals they use is not standard either so rings wont fit on the factory terminals and clips can't be fastened down. I find the best way is to use ring terminals on the positive terminal in the fuse box and one of the body negative terminal location nearby.
If you don't mind taking and reinstalling the battery cover everytime, I guess you can just use clips.
I use a battery tender junior and it charges up just fine.

 

[tsunami]

battery tender...

Batteries Plus has battery minders that come with polarized wires. You have a choice in using alligator clips (which don't fit well with the Mustang setup), or ring connectors. I used the ring connectors and led the wires out from under the battery cover. I can unplug the polarized plug connectors and remove the minder when needed, while keeping the ring connectors permanently attached to the battery posts. I have use this type of rig for years.

 

[MikeD1]

I like the Genius chargers for this very reason. They sell a 'pigtail' with rings (2 diff sizes) and it plugs right into the charger. They even have extensions for the charge cables.

I have a pigtail on each car + the riding mower & just move the charger where it's needed.

 

[lazarus870]

I just discovered that my cigarette lighter stays active when the car is OFF too; I assume an alternative is to use a cigarette lighter adaptor to charge the car?

 

[jasonstang]

I just discovered that my cigarette lighter stays active when the car is OFF too; I assume an alternative is to use a cigarette lighter adaptor to charge the car?

You could do that. They have adaptors that allow you to do that.

Sponsored