As technicians, we know for certain that pilots have problems maintaining the health of aircraft batteries, with expensive consequences. If you’re among the crowd that buys a new one every two years—or sooner—you know that a new battery will set you back at least $165 for a Gill flooded model to we’ll over $200 for a Concorde sealed model. These are entry-level prices that don’t include labor.
While aircraft batteries endure more abuse than their automotive counterparts, there are some things you can do to ensure the battery will last longer—and won’t leave you stranded on a cold, dark ramp. In this article, we’ll look at what you can do to keep this critical accessory in top shape.