Electric Auger PM Questions

[pulleye16]

I own a 3y/o SM electric auger. When this was new, I had no problems cutting 20 holes in 18 inch thick ice. Last wknd while out, I was lucky to get 6!

Its always been stored in the garage (not insultated) but I keep the battery full and will place the charger on once or twice during the off season. I've also noticed kind of a "grinding" sound when the auger spins but I quess I've always heard that so I thought it's normal???

What do you guys do to keep these running strong? How long do your batteries seem to last that people claim to get 20-30 holes? Do you take out your battery and place it indoors during the winter months? If no, do you just charge your cold batter outside? Are the chargers "smart chargers?"

Lastly, what battery do you recomend for the longest use?

[svonasek]

It depends on the battery they used. Most batteries have a maximum number of times you can charge them before they start falling off in performance.

I'd find out what it uses for a battery. Chances are you can find a replacement for around $30

[herefish101]

Get a new battery, there are many reasons a battery can go bad, at least take the battery to Bat+ and get it tested they'll let you know if you need a new one, and if you do need a new one, they can sell you one, win, win. The battery test is free, bring it in fully charged. Good luck and big fish.

[Ed Carlson]

Replace it with a new 10 amp 12V. I would not go under a 10 amp rating.

There is also a 12amp 12 V RBC4 out there too, a little bit larger ($48). Yet the SM case is a bit larger without the shim used to hold the battery in place. I have yet tried it and I'm very curious if the 12 amp will wiggle in there.

RCB4 12amp 12 V

* Expected Battery Life: 3-5 years

* 12 Volts, 12 Amp-Hours

* Tab Size: 0.250

* 5.94" x 3.86" x 3.7"