DISCO 4 2014 TIME FOR NEW BATTERY

[jliquorish]

Hi Guys. I know there are lots of threads on this but none current. I am looking at a Bosch BLN5 like Tombie has or the original Exide SSAGM-88EU. Neither are exactly the same as the manuals specs falling a little short of recommended reserve of 190 min. I can get the exide installed for around $450. Since my OEM has lasted this long I thought maybe go with the same. Any opinions please?

[Tote]

Autobarn do a range of the Varta batteries, sorry I'm not sure of the specs for the D4

Batteries | Batteries, Globes & Electrical | Autobarn Category | Autobarn Site (https://www.autobarn.com.au/ab/Autobarn-Category/Batteries%2C-Globes-%26-Electrical/Batteries/c/83)

Regards,
Tote

[Macadamia]

I recently reviewed all the recommended batteries for the D4 and went with a SSB SS88Ti discounted for $365 delivered. General consensus was the Varta is probably the best battery you can get for the car but at the time was substantially more expensive. this was a close second.

[Tombie]

My next One will be the SSB

[Dagilmo]

I recently reviewed all the recommended batteries for the D4 and went with a SSB SS88Ti discounted for $365 delivered. General consensus was the Varta is probably the best battery you can get for the car but at the time was substantially more expensive. this was a close second.

X2

[kelvo]

I fitted a SSB SS88Ti with no issues.

[loanrangie]

Just looking on the ssb site and they have and ess88 non stop start that is around $210, looks like a good option.

[Tombie]

Just looking on the ssb site and they have and ess88 non stop start that is around $210, looks like a good option.

I’d still go the agm for performance

[loanrangie]

I wouldn't for the extra $150+, for a D4 might be worth it.

[RickO]

Or this from Funnings @ $249:

Exide Extreme XDIN88HMF Vehicle Battery | Bunnings Warehouse (https://www.bunnings.com.au/exide-extreme-xdin88hmf-vehicle-battery_p0175707)

[Cpt]

I replaced my D4's original OEM battery last year with the Varta G14 and I'm very happy with it. I waited for it to go on special at Autobarn and then got Every Battery to price match it because they provide free installation including diagnostic tool reset (it's simple to install the battery yourself but I didn't have a diagnostic tool so I needed this done for me). It ended up costing $478 and with a 42 month warranty on the Varta you really can't go wrong.

[Barraman]

Wow! I’m on my 3rd battery in my 2015 D4 - got 4 yrs out of the original, but only 12 mths out of the 2nd - replaced under its 3 yr warrantee.

[p38arover]

Unfortunately, battery discounts for forum members are no longer available. I need a new battery for my L322. The last one, a 60044 (N88HMF?) 880CCA with discount cost $140.

[DiscoJeffster]

I hit four years last month on my Varta G14 AGM. I’ve put it on a charger for 24 hours at least monthly to try and keep it healthy. The car BMS says it’s down to around 78% capacity, but as of 12 months ago it has a buddy from an SSB secondary battery which has probably helped it live a little longer. So far I’m not seeing any signs of it going off.

[DieselLSE]

Wow! I’m on my 3rd battery in my 2015 D4 - got 4 yrs out of the original, but only 12 mths out of the 2nd - replaced under its 3 yr warrantee.
I want to place a bet with you. I reckon you:
1. Leave your headlights switched to automatic.
2. Use the follow me home function and have your headlights stay on for 30 or 60 seconds after you switch off.
3. Have your interior lights set to auto so they come on every time you unlock the car and/or open a door.
If I win the bet and you mainly do short trips and/or leave or come home in the dark, then the battery is trying to cope with heavy loads without the opportunity to be recharged properly. I'm assuming your replacement battery was up to spec. These cars need a very good AGM battery like the Varta G14 or SSB.
Mind you, if I lose the bet, it probably means you're just unlucky and deserve to have a whinge!
I'm sure you know this, but make sure the BMS is reset each time you change batteries.

[Barraman]

I want to place a bet with you. I reckon you:
1. Leave your headlights switched to automatic.
2. Use the follow me home function and have your headlights stay on for 30 or 60 seconds after you switch off.
3. Have your interior lights set to auto so they come on every time you unlock the car and/or open a door.
If I win the bet and you mainly do short trips and/or leave or come home in the dark, then the battery is trying to cope with heavy loads without the opportunity to be recharged properly. I'm assuming your replacement battery was up to spec. These cars need a very good AGM battery like the Varta G14 or SSB.
Mind you, if I lose the bet, it probably means you're just unlucky and deserve to have a whinge!
I'm sure you know this, but make sure the BMS is reset each time you change batteries.

Haha! Well this is interesting - and I just realised that I lied - its on its 4th battery in 6 yrs!

1. Yes
2. Yes
3. Yes

#1 battery came with the Disco - bought new in 2015 - lasted 2 yrs
#2 battery supplied by RACQ - I assumed it was up to spec - lasted 2 yrs
#3 battery also supplied by RACQ - lasted 12 mths and then failed big time when 350 km from home, in a very isolated spot after about 1000 km over 2 days. Disco got a truck ride home to the dealer as roadside assist didn't have a spec battery. Dealer diagnosed "dropped cell" - RACQ replaced the battery (#4) under warrantee - no charge.

Disco does short trips around the town (rarely at night) - interspersed with 1000+ km trips every few months. When #3 failed we had done 3,000+ km in the previous couple of days.

I generally tow a 6.5M boat to very remote places on those long trips! Thinking of installing a Disco spec battery in the boat so I have a spare for the Disco if needed.

[letherm]

I want to place a bet with you. I reckon you:
1. Leave your headlights switched to automatic.
2. Use the follow me home function and have your headlights stay on for 30 or 60 seconds after you switch off.
3. Have your interior lights set to auto so they come on every time you unlock the car and/or open a door.
If I win the bet and you mainly do short trips and/or leave or come home in the dark, then the battery is trying to cope with heavy loads without the opportunity to be recharged properly. I'm assuming your replacement battery was up to spec. These cars need a very good AGM battery like the Varta G14 or SSB.
Mind you, if I lose the bet, it probably means you're just unlucky and deserve to have a whinge!
I'm sure you know this, but make sure the BMS is reset each time you change batteries.

I have a MY2013 D4. I do all of the above and we only do 10 minute trips to various doctors etc. with occasional 30 minute to 90 minute journeys monthly. OEM battery was replaced last November and hadn't failed but the Indie servicing my car said it was showing signs that it was keeping less voltage so I replaced it before it died. So I got 7 years out of it. Probably just lucky but I think you'll agree it lasted well under the worst possible conditions. :)

Martin

[jliquorish]

Next step is to replace battery. Manual doesn't go into detail. I will probably hook a secondary battery into 12s plug in rear. Looking at all the positive cabling in front of battery can I slide battery forward to get it out?

[Tombie]

Next step is to replace battery. Manual doesn't go into detail. I will probably hook a secondary battery into 12s plug in rear. Looking at all the positive cabling in front of battery can I slide battery forward to get it out?

No…

You need to let the vehicle go to sleep before disconnecting.

Then Neg off, Pos off, swap battery…

Power up vehicle and using IID tool reset BMS (or it will think it has an old degraded battery in it and shorten its life)

[cjc_td5]

No…

You need to let the vehicle go to sleep before disconnecting.

Then Neg off, Pos off, swap battery…

Power up vehicle and using IID tool reset BMS (or it will think it has an old degraded battery in it and shorten its life)Hi Tombie.
What's the implications of not reseting the BMS? I've replaced the battery a couple of times over the life of my MY14 D4 but never reset the BMS...
Cheers, Chris.

[drivesafe]

Hi Tombie.
What's the implications of not reseting the BMS? I've replaced the battery a couple of times over the life of my MY14 D4 but never reset the BMS...
Cheers, Chris.
Hi Chris, in most cases resetting the BMS is not necessary, as you will literally be carrying out a HARD RESET by disconnecting the battery to replace it.

Only difference is, while the old battery is out, link the positive ( + ) and negative ( - ) battery clamps together.

You usually can not get them to come close enough to touch, so use some wire or just link them with a single jumper lead.

This action, most cases, will cause a hard reset, and your BMS will simple start from scratch.

SPECIAL NOTE OF CAUTION, if you have a dual battery setup, disconnect the negative ( - ) lead from every battery in the vehicle, before carrying out a HARD RESET.

If after carrying out a HARD RESET and fitting the new battery, you still get "Low Battery, Start Motor" messages, you will then need to use an IID tool to reset the BMS.

[jliquorish]

No…

You need to let the vehicle go to sleep before disconnecting.

Then Neg off, Pos off, swap battery…

Power up vehicle and using IID tool reset BMS (or it will think it has an old degraded battery in it and shorten its life)

Hi Tombie. Looking at where the battery is located, sitting under the back sill, what is the procedure of swapping out. I cannot find any practical info even on youtube. Do I wiggle the battery? Does the positive lead cluster move out of the way? Can I rotate the back of the battery out to clear the rear cill. Since I haven't seen a battery taken out of a LR4 I am hesitant lest I cause some damage! Thanks

[Tombie]

Hi Tombie. Looking at where the battery is located, sitting under the back sill, what is the procedure of swapping out. I cannot find any practical info even on youtube. Do I wiggle the battery? Does the positive lead cluster move out of the way? Can I rotate the back of the battery out to clear the rear cill. Since I haven't seen a battery taken out of a LR4 I am hesitant lest I cause some damage! Thanks

Neg off
Positive off and to centreline of vehicle.
Lift leading edge up and forwards.

[PerthDisco]

Battery died yesterday. Off shopping tomorrow. What is best recommendation for D3 TDV6?

Battery World and Autozone have Varta for $409.

Who sells SSB?

Current battery was a Century 760CCA so a bit under spec I think.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210516/8bec697e1f679611b7e16948e7f468c7.jpg

[drivesafe]

Battery died yesterday. Off shopping tomorrow. What is best recommendation for D3 TDV6?

Who sells SSB?

Try Goodchild!

[ATH]

I had new battery fitted under warranty just on 2 years and 45K ago. Even after a good run I still keep getting the "Low battery start engine" warning. Is this indicating the alternator is not charging enough or that the battery is on it's last legs?
I've got a Gap tool but haven't used it seriously since buying it when I bought the vehicle new just over 4 years ago. Can anyone guide an ageing thick head as to the procedure to go through to check these things? It's got a dual battery Intervolt system and a read out gauge on the dash which shows charging at around 14v and 4 amps first thing in the morning when I go out for the paper which quickly drops to 13v and 1amp.
Cheers.
AlanH.

[101RRS]

Doesn't the D4 now have AGM batteries fitted?

[PerthDisco]

Doesn't the D4 now have AGM batteries fitted?

Sorry I hijacked this thread seeking D3 information which still can take lead acid.

[101RRS]

Sorry missed you were talking about a D3 - Varta is a good battery but the 830CCA is a little light on - I would go the 912CCA version.

However Varta is expensive and there are other batteries such as Supercharge are better value for money BUT are not better batteries and will not last as long as the Varta.

I bought a 9?? CCA Supercharge just before Xmas for just under $300 and I would expect it to last about 80% of the time of the equivalent Varta but is a lot cheaper.

[PerthDisco]

Try Goodchild!

I did and very helpful. They didn’t have the SSB I needed and I needed a battery there and then so I’ve gone for a Bosch AGM 92ah 850CCA but he showed me it measuring 1048CCA on their test unit. More aligned with what LR recommend.

Anyways an AGM for less price of lead acid equal at major retailers so here goes. Good to know Goodchild exist for future reference very helpful.

I’d been getting the bong and Special Programs Unavailable warning for past months a sign of inevitable battery weakness but the end was swift from a jump start on Friday to nothing Saturday.


https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210517/2a514c7e2e6b396564a401d1d72bc1c9.jpg

[rapserv]

I did and very helpful. They didn’t have the SSB I needed and I needed a battery there and then so I’ve gone for a Bosch AGM 92ah 850CCA but he showed me it measuring 1048CCA on their test unit. More aligned with what LR recommend.

Anyways an AGM for less price of lead acid equal at major retailers so here goes. Good to know Goodchild exist for future reference very helpful.

I’d been getting the bong and Special Programs Unavailable warning for past months a sign of inevitable battery weakness but the end was swift from a jump start on Friday to nothing Saturday.


https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210517/2a514c7e2e6b396564a401d1d72bc1c9.jpg

I bought the same battery from Goodchilds about a month ago .. haven't had the chance to change it over yet!

[rapserv]

I curently have a Delkor LN5 AGM battery in my newly acquired D4 that the previous owner fitted in January 2017 (4 years & 4 months ago) and it's STILL performing ok.

iiD Tool tells me that the state of charge (SOC), after sitting overnight, is still 85%. That seems to me to be pretty good after 4+ years!!

I have bought a new Bosch LN5 to replace it .. regardless, as I'm systematically changing a number of things on the vehicle, including such things as ALL the fluids, so that I KNOW that they are all ok.

[Ashes]

#me too

Car has been sitting for a few weeks after a big trip due to a coolant leak which I'm getting fixed today at the stealer.. They advise they want $900+ to fit a new battery as it tested low today. I've declined them replacing it as it could be low due to it sitting idle but it possibly is getting close to needing replacement anyway (but not at $900+) . I have a traxide USI160 so that could be keeping it going if it is actually nearing end of life.

For at 18 months I've been getting the "low battery warning" despite the battery charge being above 12v, no starting issues and even sometimes after being on the charger.

There are a few things that I've learnt about this but haven't been able to either do or rule out as yet.

- the battery could actually be low even though my own voltage monitor (a bluetooth thingy..) says it is above 12v
- I've done a hard reset just in case the computer was a bit confused. no difference
- there are a couple of TSB's that might be relevant based on the VIN of my 2014 D4
- LTB00958NAS1 - update of Gateway module configuration required
- SSM72615 - The battery BMS clamp is not correctly positioned on the main battery terminal post (also requires a reset of BMS after adjusting)


I've been reading a few threads talking about the SS88Ti battery and if I can convince myself that my starter is due for replacement I'll get one of these. Will be interesting to see if I still get "low battery warning" after that.
I dont have access to an IID tool to reset the BMS but hoping that isn't that critical if I do replace the battery.

[DiscoJeffster]

Resetting the BMS is, so if you can’t do it yourself, take it to a battery place and get them to do it

[Tote]

The battery tests that the dealer does are, shall we say, geared towards generating revenue. My RRS was having battery issues when I bought it 12 months ago because old mate only drove it occasionally. It had to have a dealer inspection as part of the sale and guess what, the battery was declared dead. This was one of the motivators to get a gap tool to reset the BMS when I replaced the battery. 12 months later and its still going strong, admittedly it does get driven most days when I'm at work but even so I'm still in front of where I would have been had it been replaced as recommended. I reckon a battery tender is a good investment as well, we were replacing the batteries on the quad bikes on the farm every year until we put a little 5 amp Ctek tender on them.

Regards,
Tote

[BeeGee]

My SSB SS88 battery seems to be on its last legs after about 3 years. IÂ’m getting the low battery warning on my 2014 Disco4 and itÂ’s failed to start on a couple of mornings. I took it in to Goodchild batteries today for a test and they said it failed their battery test.

Goodchilds recommended replacing with an Amaron LN5 H8 battery (900CCA) for $319,
Or a Bosch LN5-S6 (850CCA) for $336, but suggested the Amaron was better.

They could still get in a replacement SSB SS88 (1100CCA) for $391 but it would take about 3 weeks from over east.

Any thoughts on the Amaron battery? Would this do the job? The guy at Goodchilds was going on about he has it in his 4wd etcÂ….

Thanks

[Tombie]

I tried a Bosch - failed quickly.
SSB is decent performance vs price

No idea on this other brand but have good reviews in other uses

Keep in mind the Disco 4 is very power intensive, so what works really well in say a Cruiser/Patrol may not in the Disco.

I’m currently running a Delkor AGM in both the D4 and L320. Got a good deal on them.

I was running the SSB and got 3 years of intense use.

Go max CCA and biggest RC you can fit in your budget.

[Tote]

The battery mentioned above bit the dust in December 2021. I've been running a Repco unit since then (the only battery I could find on Christmas eve) and its going OK.

Regards,
Tote

[discorevy]

My SSB SS88 battery seems to be on its last legs after about 3 years. IÂ’m getting the low battery warning on my 2014 Disco4 and itÂ’s failed to start on a couple of mornings. I took it in to Goodchild batteries today for a test and they said it failed their battery test.

Goodchilds recommended replacing with an Amaron LN5 H8 battery (900CCA) for $319,
Or a Bosch LN5-S6 (850CCA) for $336, but suggested the Amaron was better.

They could still get in a replacement SSB SS88 (1100CCA) for $391 but it would take about 3 weeks from over east.

Any thoughts on the Amaron battery? Would this do the job? The guy at Goodchilds was going on about he has it in his 4wd etcÂ….

Thanks

Amaron have always been good long lasting Batteries, Myself and others down this way haven't got long out of the SSB range (2-3 years is about it) even with easy lives.

[shack]

Amaron have always been good long lasting Batteries, Myself and others down this way haven't got long out of the SSB range (2-3 years is about it) even with easy lives.Ditto..

[Tombie]

Yeah, I’ll keep them in mind for 3-4 years time.

I’ve just done the small solar panel on my D4 to keep the main trickled up. Will see how that goes. I generally kill any battery in 3 years with the loads imposed.

[BeeGee]

Thanks guys.

I’ve got warning lights over my dash and struggling to start so not going to wait 3 weeks for a replacement SSB.

I’d never heard of the Amaron but think I will pull the trigger this afternoon and see how it goes. It seems to get good reviews so will see if it’s up to the demands of the Disco!

[BradC]

Go max CCA and biggest RC you can fit in your budget.

That's an interesting conflict. Higher CCA means more (thinner) plates, while biggest RC implies fewer thicker plates.
Why do you need to max out CCA? The Lion V6 (either version) is not a particularly vicious beast when it comes to cranking, but the current draw of the electronics is "somewhat severe".

I go for adequate CCA with a better RC frankly.

[eddy]

Thanks guys.

I’ve got warning lights over my dash and struggling to start so not going to wait 3 weeks for a replacement SSB.

I’d never heard of the Amaron but think I will pull the trigger this afternoon and see how it goes. It seems to get good reviews so will see if it’s up to the demands of the Disco!

I have only heard good about the longevity of the Amaron batteries.Will go for the Amaron ,Jade Din95 to replace the Varta G14 and the SSB 50D before winter..Goodchild prices look ok.

[BeeGee]

I have only heard good about the longevity of the Amaron batteries.Will go for the Amaron ,Jade Din95 to replace the Varta G14 and the SSB 50D before winter..Goodchild prices look ok.

Great to hear further confidence in the Amaron. Do you mean you'll replace your main cranking Varta G14 and deep cycle 50D with a single Amaron battery?

I've currently got a dual setup SSB SS88Ti and a SSB 50D and Traxide setup. Both batteries are stuffed. Will replace the SS88Ti with an Amaron this afternoon. However, not sure whether I will replace the 50D with another 50D this afternoon at the same time. Would it be bad to only replace the crank battery and leave a dead 50D in place for the time being.

[DiscoJeffster]

Great to hear further confidence in the Amaron. Do you mean you'll replace your main cranking Varta G14 and deep cycle 50D with a single Amaron battery?

I've currently got a dual setup SSB SS88Ti and a SSB 50D and Traxide setup. Both batteries are stuffed. Will replace the SS88Ti with an Amaron this afternoon. However, not sure whether I will replace the 50D with another 50D this afternoon at the same time. Would it be bad to only replace the crank battery and leave a dead 50D in place for the time being.

If it’s dead, disconnect it and don’t make the new battery support it.

[BeeGee]

If it’s dead, disconnect it and don’t make the new battery support it.

Good call. Thanks.

OK, the Amaron LN5 DIN95 has been fitted. Let's hope I can report back in 3+ years that it's still going strong!

[eddy]

It's a Traxide system,so probably have to modify the tray to fit Amaron 100D26R [225Hx260Lx173W]or go for the H5-LN2AGM

Any other recommendations?

[drivesafe]

Great to hear further confidence in the Amaron. Do you mean you'll replace your main cranking Varta G14 and deep cycle 50D with a single Amaron battery?

I've currently got a dual setup SSB SS88Ti and a SSB 50D and Traxide setup. Both batteries are stuffed. Will replace the SS88Ti with an Amaron this afternoon. However, not sure whether I will replace the 50D with another 50D this afternoon at the same time. Would it be bad to only replace the crank battery and leave a dead 50D in place for the time being.

Hi Bee Gee, can you be more specific about what you mean by STUFFED???

[M005]

Post deleted (can't find the option[bighmmm] )

[Tins]

Post deleted (can't find the option[bighmmm] )

There isn't one for us mere mortals. Only Mods and Admin can delete posts. What you did is the only option.

[M005]

So new battery fitted (Amaron Jade LN5) and Battery Central reset the BMS, however I'm still getting the low battery start engine warnings :2up: even after an hours drive and being told the batteries were typically ~85% charged & therefore well above the voltage the warning should kick in.

Makes we wonder whether my 35 month old Yuasa battery was the problem after all....

Oh and it's now decided it won't lock the rear doors.......

And I'm supposed to be off on a 5,000 km roadtrip through the outback & Strzelecki.

[Tombie]

Check terminals are tight,
Check fob battery is ok (even before low battery warning they can be problematic)
Check charging voltage from alternator.

[M005]

Thanks Tombie.

Turns out the gateway module part of the main body computer needed a reflash of the latest software.

And both rear doors not unlocking - sometimes changing the battery can cause both rear door modules to lock up, you need to unplug them, wait 5 seconds and plug them back in. Wakes them up again and everything works. [bighmmm]

Some days I wish I was still in my 300TDI Defenders / Disco 1 - then I remember it's 32degrees outside and the D4 is a much nicer place to be [bigsmile]

[StewG]

Yesterday I jumped into my D4 to go to a meeting. All kinds of faults flashed up and the engine would not turn over. A quick exit and borrowed the wife's car. That afternoon I checked the battery and it showed 9.5 volts! Not a good sign. Connection of a CTEK charger with recondition activated got the battery up to 12.8V after a few hours and I was able to start the car and check the faults with my GAP tool. A massive list of faults was evident, but all cleared back to no faults with the engine running. Checked the battery voltage again after stopping the engine and there was a rapid decline down to below 12.2V. So I reckon that the 5 year old battery needs replacing.

I have a Traxide system auxiliary battery for connecting to the caravan and/or Engel fridge - this is an SSBHVT70LD which I think is the biggest that can fit in the space - with a bit of bonnet modification and trimming of brackets, etc. This battery is only 18 months old and seems to be good.

So I am looking to get a SSB SS88Ti as a replacement cranking battery based on recommendations in this thread and after checking specs online. Varta G14 looks attractive, but it is hard to justify and extra $200+ for what one hopes is little difference in lifetime or performance.

[DiscoJeffster]

Yesterday I jumped into my D4 to go to a meeting. All kinds of faults flashed up and the engine would not turn over. A quick exit and borrowed the wife's car. That afternoon I checked the battery and it showed 9.5 volts! Not a good sign. Connection of a CTEK charger with recondition activated got the battery up to 12.8V after a few hours and I was able to start the car and check the faults with my GAP tool. A massive list of faults was evident, but all cleared back to no faults with the engine running. Checked the battery voltage again after stopping the engine and there was a rapid decline down to below 12.2V. So I reckon that the 5 year old battery needs replacing.

I have a Traxide system auxiliary battery for connecting to the caravan and/or Engel fridge - this is an SSBHVT70LD which I think is the biggest that can fit in the space - with a bit of bonnet modification and trimming of brackets, etc. This battery is only 18 months old and seems to be good.

So I am looking to get a SSB SS88Ti as a replacement cranking battery based on recommendations in this thread and after checking specs online. Varta G14 looks attractive, but it is hard to justify and extra $200+ for what one hopes is little difference in lifetime or performance.

Don’t get the SS88Ti. Many of us have found it doesn’t last anywhere near as long as you’d expect. I went back to Varta. I had a great run with my first getting a solid five years. Got a smidge over two on the SS88. Sure I could have bothered with their warranty, but no local stock, wait times, and PITA factor. You do you, but do more recent research.

[StewG]

Thanks for the warning DiscoJeffster. The SS88TI is available in a week and the Varta A5 (replaces G14) is available today. So I went and picked up a Varta. It is now being charged before putting in the D4. [bigsmile1]

I had planned to drive and have it fitted (it weighs 27kg) but despite the old battery being on charge all night, the car showed 10.5V and refused to start. Tried jumper leads from another car, but still no luck. So it looks like I need a crane or extra weeties to do the job myself. [bigsad]

[BradC]

despite the old battery being on charge all night, the car showed 10.5V and refused to start. Tried jumper leads from another car, but still no luck.

Looks like you need a set of proper jump leads.

Failing that, I use a set of steps. The fuse box with the lid on is strong enough to support the battery. Getting the old one out I position myself right above it.
- Put the bonnet in service mode (undo the gas struts and push it all the way back so it's not in the way).
- Undo stuff.
- Lift the old battery out and slide it onto the fuse box. This allows you to then climb down and lift it down plus a break between the two actions.
- Lift the new battery onto the fuse box, then sit down with a cup of tea to recover.
- Put the new battery into position.
- Do up stuff.
- Re-connect the bonnet struts.

[Perkinma]

Interesting to read that others have also had very poor experiences with the SSB batteries. I purchased an SSB88Ti which is currently within warranty and it can no longer turn the engine over on my LR Disco 3. I tested it at about 175CCA and the SSB dealer rep here tested it at about 200CCA on two separate testers. So about 80% loss of capacity in under 3 years? Have been told they wont cover under warranty and pointed to the statement on their website "Warranty does not cover discharged batteries or diminishing capacity...".

I've tried to follow it up with SSB Head Office for a second opinion but at this time no response to my emails and every time I call there is no one from warranty department to talk to.

Very disappointed.

[DiscoJeffster]

Interesting to read that others have also had very poor experiences with the SSB batteries. I purchased an SSB88Ti which is currently within warranty and it can no longer turn the engine over on my LR Disco 3. I tested it at about 175CCA and the SSB dealer rep here tested it at about 200CCA on two separate testers. So about 80% loss of capacity in under 3 years? Have been told they wont cover under warranty and pointed to the statement on their website "Warranty does not cover discharged batteries or diminishing capacity...".

I've tried to follow it up with SSB Head Office for a second opinion but at this time no response to my emails and every time I call there is no one from warranty department to talk to.

Very disappointed.

Yeah. Showed promise but like all things that look too good to be true, it was.
I went back to Varta in both my Discos

[DiscoDB]

That is disappointing.

One interesting thing is CCA is actually starting power - i.e. it is about performance not capacity or more specifically the ability to start an engine in cold climates. You would have to do a capacity test to see what corresponding loss in AH rating you have also ended up with but I am sure this is also impacted.

I don’t see in their warranty guide where they state that they don’t provide a warranty for the starting power or performance. If this was explicitly stated then I guess you would think twice about buying in the first place.

[Perkinma]

I don’t see in their warranty guide where they state that they don’t provide a warranty for the starting power or performance. If this was explicitly stated then I guess you would think twice about buying in the first place.

To be specific the dealer made it clear from the outset that there was no way they were going to honor the warranty. They rattled of a bunch of rubbish reasons why (like stating that AGM batteries were not suitable for LR Disco, blamed the Traxide dual battery setup, blamed it on being a stop-start engine, etc etc).

Not withstanding, they wanted to thoroughly test and charge the battery themselves and I gave it to them so that they could do so.

Since then no response from either the battery dealer or SSB despite numerous calls.

So I went in person to check in on the battery dealer this morning for an update and they stated that the battery was stuffed (17% rated capacity at full charge) and also was outside of 24 month warranty.

I pointed to the SSB website where it states 36 month warranty (it even literally says it on the top of the battery), dealer basically shrugged his shoulders then kicked me out of the store.

It's clear to me that they wouldn't have honored the warranty at 24months or even earlier so I guess I've learnt a valuable lesson and wont purchase SSB ever again. Or from that local dealer.

[loanrangie]

That's funny when the LR replacement batteries are Exide AGM's, talking out their rear end as usual.

[Tombie]

Pretty sure that fair trading would find your experience interesting!

When my SSB dropped just inside the 36 months the rep gave me a new one.

[DiscoJeffster]

Pretty sure that fair trading would find your experience interesting!

When my SSB dropped just inside the 36 months the rep gave me a new one.

lol. Believe it when I see it.

[scarry]

The SSB in the LC,coupled with the Traxide set up is almost 5 yrs old and fine.
Just been to Tassie for 3 weeks,and the fridge worked better than expected on the days the vehicle was not used.
I do put both batteries on the charger once a month or so,maybe that is helping them.

[veebs]

Pretty sure that fair trading would find your experience interesting!

I lost a lot of hope in that mob - a computer monitor of mine died 4 months into a 3 year warranty period. Manufacturer refused to replace or repair because **WITHOUT LOOKING** they deemed it to be due to physical abuse. Fair Trading advised they couldn't assist further, based on this assessment. Useless.

[eddielines]

I also have SSB and feels like its losing power. I am going to buy a tester to check it. Anyone any recommendations on a cheapish tester that will do the job ?

I put them in 28 months ago so should be covered under warrantly, I bought from head office and delivered from Western Sydney store.

I have triaxide with the HVT50 as Auxilary also.

I did test for current drain last year and found that with auxilary disconnected it was at about expected of 40 to 50 mA when car asleep, with Auxilary connected the triaxide is pulling ~250 to 300 mA which I think is expected, but car is driven most days so shouldn't be an issue. It rarely sits long enough but it does feel like it drains quicker than it should.

[Tombie]

I also have SSB and feels like its losing power. I am going to buy a tester to check it. Anyone any recommendations on a cheapish tester that will do the job ?

I put them in 28 months ago so should be covered under warrantly, I bought from head office and delivered from Western Sydney store.

I have triaxide with the HVT50 as Auxilary also.

I did test for current drain last year and found that with auxilary disconnected it was at about expected of 40 to 50 mA when car asleep, with Auxilary connected the triaxide is pulling ~250 to 300 mA which I think is expected, but car is driven most days so shouldn't be an issue. It rarely sits long enough but it does feel like it drains quicker than it should.

Driven daily ----- How far?

[eddielines]

Driven daily ----- How far?

Few other side trips but primarily by wide to and from work most days ~40mins. This should be enough to keep healthy. Previous batteries died during covid when I was less aware. I also connect to ctek every couple of weeks.

I charged last weekend, from 7pm on 15th to 9am on 17th it dropped to 12.65V. I know that full is 12.8V and have to allow for surface charge to dissipate. that probably looks okish, but when camping with fridge on, it drops to 12.2/12.3 my mid next morning which feels a bit quicker than it should / used to. I'll do a bit more prolonged testing and with batteries separated192814192815192816.

[eddielines]

Ok, so bought tester of Amazon and it's telling me that both batteries are not good and to replace, cranking voltage is down at 8V, surprisingly the car is staring ok. Might drop into SCA to get another test to verify tomorrow.

I did it last year but will also do some testing tomorrow to make sure I don't have a parasitic drain.

The batteries are about 2.5 years old, so the ss88ti is under warranty as not a stop start car. In terms of the Auxiliary I have the HVT-50D in drivers side battery box and ARB compressor in front of main battery.

I am wondering if getting the HVT-70D and putting in front of cranking battery with the tray from drivesafe and relocating compressor is a better idea. Any one have this setup ? Where do people have the compressor setup permanently ? Anyone with it under passenger seat ?

[veebs]

I am wondering if getting the HVT-70D and putting in front of cranking battery with the tray from drivesafe and relocating compressor is a better idea. Any one have this setup ? Where do people have the compressor setup permanently ? Anyone with it under passenger seat ?

Why would it be a better idea do you think? Certainly, you can fit a bigger battery, but the box you currently have it in strikes me as te most engineered spot (it's where LR designed the battery to go in LHD vehicles). I'd wager it is cooler or less vibration, or some other positive reason to have it in the box.

[eddielines]

Why would it be a better idea do you think? Certainly, you can fit a bigger battery, but the box you currently have it in strikes me as te most engineered spot (it's where LR designed the battery to go in LHD vehicles). I'd wager it is cooler or less vibration, or some other positive reason to have it in the box.

Purely for the additional capacity. Has anyone whos put the auxilary in front of the main, suffered with reduced life ?

[eddielines]

Super Start replaced the ss88ti under warranty, initially he started saying it was swollen which indicated over charging, but I am skeptical about that, as I occasionally monitor charge using Gap IID and its never over 14.7, nearly always 14.3 and then reduces when it gets to 80%. Also use the CTek and have a watt meter which.

When I reset BMS the volage and current was all over the place, I thought I had issue, but yesterday morning its back to normal 14.3V ~40 amps to batter, then dropping off as charge increases. It must have been the calibration / learning routine.

[jonesy63]

FWIW, I bought a SSB SS88T1 in Oct 2019. That was in my D4 2.7L for about 4 years and copped a beating - jump started heaps of other cars, winching with no motor running to get out of ditch (long story!), etc. I then moved it to my D4 3L where it was only driven on mainly short trips - but I do maintain batteries with a monthly charge via CTek. It is now on the way out - slow starts in the morning. So I am happy with them.

A couple of things I noticed - the Exide Extreme is 22.3kg; The SSB SS88Ti is 26.5kg; and the Amaron Jade LN5 is 28.5kg. The Amaron is about the same price of the SSB, so think I'll go with that one this time. IMHO, lead weighs! ;)

Cheers,
Rob

[BMKal]

Has anyone whos put the auxilary in front of the main, suffered with reduced life ?

I did, with Optima Yellow Tops - two of them in succession. But I believe the problem was more that they are a crap battery than their position under the bonnet.
Since replacing my second Yellow Top with a Fullriver DC85-12 I have had no further problem. The Fullriver has been in the vehicle for nearly 5 years now, whereas the Yellowtops were not even lasting a year (second one failed after just over 12 months).
The Fullriver is a bit of a tight squeeze in there on the Traxide tray, but by turning it round so that the battery terminals are towards the rear of the car and extending one of the battery cables to suit, it fits OK. Battery terminals are the "flush" type with cables bolted into the top of them - traditional terminal "posts" might make fitting difficult.
My cranking battery has always been a Varta G14 (I'm now on my third one of these - not bad in 13 years).