Portable jump starter
11-23-16, 06:20 PM
#1
Pole Position
Thread Starter
Portable jump starter
Our v6 camry's battery tends to die quickly. A new battery might solve the problem, but seeing as though how it can die just from a light being left on for 20 minutes or so, I suspect the battery may not be the only factor. Regardless, does anyone have any experience with those consumer grade jump starters ($50 range)? Are they reliable and don't fail after a couple uses? I've always been curious about them and it might be something handy just to have around.
Is there also a way to figure out what specs I would need to start a specific vehicle and one as large as the rx? Thanks.
Is there also a way to figure out what specs I would need to start a specific vehicle and one as large as the rx? Thanks.
11-23-16, 08:49 PM
#2
Moderator
Since it is not a common or even frequent problem on RX, it is most likely something peculiar to your RX. Have you had the system tested? It might be worth while to take the alternator out and have it bench tested.
The other issue is the brand and type of battery you use.
The third is the drain. Any aftermarket accessory?
Do not underestimate the amount of damage a bad battery causes ... it tends to burn out the alternator.
Salim
The other issue is the brand and type of battery you use.
The third is the drain. Any aftermarket accessory?
Do not underestimate the amount of damage a bad battery causes ... it tends to burn out the alternator.
Salim
11-23-16, 10:10 PM
#3
Salim, why does the alternator have to be removed? I've usually just load tested the battery and tested the alternator with a voltmeter.
The alternator test would be run at various engine RPM's and with different loads, like headlights on/off, etc.
The alternator test would be run at various engine RPM's and with different loads, like headlights on/off, etc.
11-24-16, 12:16 AM
#4
Moderator
After I posted my comments, I felt that I had done hsmac a disservice as I was not answering his question, but diverting it.
A good bit of testing can be done in the vehicle. But the test outcome can be affected by the electrical load. This can be eliminated by putting the alternator in the test jig and the testing is free at auto-shops.
Salim
A good bit of testing can be done in the vehicle. But the test outcome can be affected by the electrical load. This can be eliminated by putting the alternator in the test jig and the testing is free at auto-shops.
Salim
11-24-16, 09:45 AM
#5
Threads like this pop up frequently, like this one from a few weeks ago:
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...-cranking.html
Have the battery tested.
11-24-16, 10:00 AM
#6
Moderator
One of the battery problem is a dead or shorted out cell. Where the battery clamps the output voltage at 10v and the alternator just keeps trying to pump more juice and the diodes start frying. Once you replace the battery the remaining diodes still put up enough voltage to charge but the aggregate current has to supplied by the remaining diodes ,, which hastens their demise.
When you have dead cell, jump from another vehicle does not work and I am not sure how a consumer level booster would work.
Salim
When you have dead cell, jump from another vehicle does not work and I am not sure how a consumer level booster would work.
Salim
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