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Auto Electrics.

If I put a larger lead acid battery onto my diesel van could it cause any damage to anything. I mean a battery of the same construction as the original, but with a higher Amp hour rating, say 20 to 30 Amp hours more than the existing battery?

Z.

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  • Biggest risk is perhaps the bracket if it is heavier.

    Generally makers fit vehicles with the smallest battery that provides enough cranking current. Personally I tend to fit the next size up to mine if there is room.  Be aware that the wires on the terminals may not reach if the replacement is a different layout. (actually some makers do specify a larger battery for export to colder countries, and if they do for you, this is a useful guide to what will fit.)

    In summary one 12V battery is much like another, a larger one will take longer to run flat and longer to charge, but the voltage in use will be much the same. Cars with clever circuits to disable automatic stop-start if there have been too many starts in a short period may behave a bit enthusiastically  if the battery capacity is not close to expected, but it will not stop it working normally when you are driving along.

    Mike.

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  • Biggest risk is perhaps the bracket if it is heavier.

    Generally makers fit vehicles with the smallest battery that provides enough cranking current. Personally I tend to fit the next size up to mine if there is room.  Be aware that the wires on the terminals may not reach if the replacement is a different layout. (actually some makers do specify a larger battery for export to colder countries, and if they do for you, this is a useful guide to what will fit.)

    In summary one 12V battery is much like another, a larger one will take longer to run flat and longer to charge, but the voltage in use will be much the same. Cars with clever circuits to disable automatic stop-start if there have been too many starts in a short period may behave a bit enthusiastically  if the battery capacity is not close to expected, but it will not stop it working normally when you are driving along.

    Mike.

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