Battery charger question?

[the Wizard]

I just noticed that the Ford charger that came with my low miles FGT is outputting over 18 volts. Is that typical, or has it failed? I ask because of all the concern with batteries here, and I would think that even at low current this would be unhealthy for the battery???

 

[topshot]

For what is worth, I would not use the Ford charge, invest in a CTEK. Well worth the $80 bucks as it conditions the battery also....

Enjoy you new ride...

 

[the Wizard]

I hear ya.....how does it condition the battery....what is that process like?

 

[Howard]

I use a CTEK also. I don't know how you would interpret the output voltage of any maintainer without the load of a battery.

Howard

 

[the Wizard]

Any ac adapter I've ever seen basically outputs the voltage that is noted on the case.....even with no load??? This one says 12 volts......

 

[the Wizard]

By conditioning I guess it's the charge and float function, but seems to me if the battery is already charged then just the float should be fine.....??? But it does look like a cool unit......

 

[RPM217]

I've been using a CTEK on my NSX for 9 years. I bought a "float charger" at Sears for a lot less, been using it on the GT for the past 2 years. Both of them work flawlessly. Highly recommend using a "float charger"

 

[Kayvan]

I believe its 0.5 Miliamperes...there is spec sheet here somehwere

search OEM charger

 

[nota4re]

You are correct Kayvan. 500mA. 18v with no load is NOT unusual. That said, I would use an intelligent float charger such as a Battery Tender - by far the most popular float charger sold today.