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I have a 2001 argo Bigfoot and wanting to upgrade the battery’s is anyone using a agm battery in theres.
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I switched to an Optima Yellow Top years ago as I plow a ton and use the winch all the time to lower and raise the plow. Wanted a deep cycle that I then pugged in each night after plowing.
I used them when I was 4x4ing a long time ago and they were awesome. -
I ordered my Avenger with an Optima battery. It was more than worth the cost. The Optima battery has very low internal resistance. It is good in all weather. An Optima battery is the best choice possible.
SteveComment
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There were 3 Types back when I used to get them. Red Top (Starter), Yellow Top (Deep Cycle) and Blue Top (Deep Cycle Marine).
Most 4x4 guys would run Yellow Top due to winching, etc. Or just Duals Red and Yellow.
Not sure if these have changed.Comment
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I run a Optima yellow top in an Argo. Sometimes the AGM batteries won't charge well with the small charging systems of some of these machines. I actually thought my Optima finally died last year. I found info on the internet that they can be resuscitated if you stick a charger on a non installed battery and run jumper cables over to the AGM battery. The charge took and I've been back in business ever since. Not sure what the science behind that is, just know it works.Comment
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In my setup I have a Norco Battery charger installed under the seat connected to the battery direct and would just plug in at night after a day of plowing.Originally posted by Noel Woods View Post
Why would you have to have a non installed battery to charge it?
I have been reading up on dual battery setups as I think I will go this route with my new Argo that i'm waiting for delivery. The basic Argo does not charge the battery at idle you need the engine at a higher RPM.
Simple things like fans, lights can drain the battery if you run the machine a lot at idle (or so that is what I have been reading). The Alternator kit will charge at idle but is a pain to install and has a high cost and can fail.
This is the reason I'm looking at dual batteries as it is simple to get a setup that works.Last edited by puzle; 01-16-2020, 05:59 PM.Comment
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Another big Optima fan here. I run them in every thing I own. The Red top is a starting battery that gives the most CCAs, the yellow top is a hybird or blend of a deep cycle and starting and is a good choice if you are using a lot of accessories but still need decent CCA to start your machine. The blue top is a deep cycle for marine and RV use. I modifed my battery tray to accept a bigger yellow top in my Conquest and it is a great battery that has started my machine in sub zero temps many times. I run a lot of accessories in my Conquest including high lumen lights at night. I do have the alternator kit and that does make a huge difference.
The good news is if you want a great battery that fits the older machines directly, Optima makes a Yellow top in a group 51, which is what they call for, This would be a great option for your Bigfoot and they are also the least expensive Optima.
I know my new Frontier will take a group 34 without modification. I am going to use the stock battery for a few months and then put a red or yellow top in it. I guess I need to figure out which one of these will be charged easiest with the 25 amp alternator/rectifier that these air cooled EFI Kohlers are running since a alternator kit is not an option.Comment
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Hmm never heard of this or ran into it with my Yellow Top in the Argo but that could be because it has never been fully dead. Low to the point I cannot start etc but then I plug it in.Originally posted by Noel Woods View PostComment
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First I would like to say if you want to spend close to $300 for a battery, I have no problem with that. This is my thinking, after 30 years playing in the sand and mud and water if I change my battery every 3 years I have not had a problem YET. I buy a good battery, will not mention a name because that causes problems sometimes, I pay right at 1/3 the cost of a top named battery. I believe the main purpose of a battery is to turn over the motor and run the lights. Pretty simple. Just changed out my battery on my TOY lots of new lights, let’s see what happens.Comment
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@deedeelin1 makes sense. If I was not winching all the time I would be less concerned but plowing you are winching a lot. For the Argo I went with a Yellow Top only because of my experience with 4x4ing and never having a problem and knowing a lot of other that also never had any issues.
I do think that a lot has changed in batteries over that time so probably a lot of other good options. I just went with what I knew. Another big help is all the LED lights. Back in my 4x4 lights setups were not led.
Is the brand that you are running with an AGM?Comment
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What are some other good makes of batteries? Where yes, an optima would be ideal, im building on a relatively tight budget. i will not be plowing with my 6x6 but do have a winch and leds. thought id ask while we were on the topic.Comment
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I was told by an Argo dealer to go with the Red Top if I was going to be plowing.Comment
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That does not make any sense as the Red top is a starter battery and not a deep cycle. Yellow Top would be the better choice 100%Originally posted by esimon4 View PostComment
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Hi Folks, this is my first post. I have just finished getting a 2004 Argo Conquest back to life and now use it in the Scottish Highlands to extract Red deer and Sika.
I am looking to replace the battery and it seems you guys really like the Yellow Top. I have a few accessories like a winch and an LED light bar so it looks like the Yellow Top would be ideal for me.
My question is this. The current battery is 60Ah and the Group 51 Yellow Top that will fit in the Conquest is a 38Ah. Does anyone think this is an issue?
I am told my alternator is 45Ah. I am more mechanically minded rather than electrically so I would appreciate any help.Comment
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