Odyssey Batteries

About Odyssey Batteries

Odyssey batteries, made by EnerSys, use Thin Plate Pure Lead (TPPL) AGM technology to deliver strong engine starting power and true deep-cycle capability in one battery. They are sealed, maintenance-free, and non-spillable, making them a reliable upgrade for vehicles and equipment that see rough roads, high accessory loads, or seasonal storage.

When to Choose Odyssey

• Use if: you run winches, off-road lights, inverters, marine electronics, or upgraded audio; drive on rough terrain; need reliable starts in cold weather; or store vehicles for long periods.
• Avoid if: you want the lowest upfront cost, are weight sensitive (consider lithium for house loads), or cannot meet AGM charging requirements.

Series at a Glance

• Extreme Series (often PC/ODX): Built for harsh vibration, frequent deep cycling, and high cranking demands. Good for off-road, marine, emergency, and commercial use.
• Performance Series (ODP): Reliable AGM for daily drivers and moderate marine/rec use. Lower cost than Extreme, with strong starting and good reserve capacity.
• Powersport/Compact Models: Small-case batteries for motorcycles, ATVs, sleds, and compact performance builds.

Fitment and Compatibility

1. Size first: Match your OEM BCI group size and terminal layout for drop-in fit and proper hold-down.
2. Cranking power: Choose equal or higher CCA than stock for reliable cold starts. In mild climates, OEM CCA is typically sufficient; in very cold climates, consider a step up.
3. Capacity (Ah/Reserve Capacity): If you power accessories with the engine off, select a model with higher Ah/RC to extend runtime.
4. Charging system: Ensure your alternator and regulator can maintain AGM-friendly voltages. As a general guideline, bulk/absorption 14.4–14.7 V and float 13.5–13.8 V. Use a smart charger with an AGM mode—avoid gel settings.
5. Mounting: AGM is non-spillable and can be mounted in various orientations (not upside down). Always secure with a solid hold-down to control vibration.

Charging and Care

• Smart charging: Use an AGM-capable charger. A charge current of ~10–40% of the battery’s Ah rating is a practical range for healthy recharge times.
• Storage: Store fully charged in a cool, dry place. Top off every 3–6 months or leave on a quality AGM maintainer. Low self-discharge helps seasonal vehicles start reliably.
• Depth of discharge: For longest life, avoid routinely discharging below ~50% state of charge and recharge promptly after use.
• Parasitic draw: Keep key-off draw modest (many vehicles target ≤50 mA). Use a disconnect or maintainer if the vehicle sits for weeks.

Runtime Planning (Simple Example)

Estimated hours ≈ (Usable Ah) ÷ Load (A). For longest life, plan around 50% of the battery’s Ah as usable.

Example: A 60 Ah battery powering a 5 A fish finder and lights → usable ~30 Ah ÷ 5 A ≈ 6 hours before recharge. Real-world runtime varies with temperature and Peukert effects.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Strong cranking and deep-cycle in one battery; excellent vibration resistance; non-spillable and maintenance-free; low self-discharge; flexible mounting.
• Cons: Higher upfront cost and weight vs. conventional batteries; requires proper AGM charging; may need upgraded hold-downs in some vehicles.

Alternatives to Consider

• Other flat-plate AGM (e.g., DieHard Platinum AGM, X2Power, NorthStar): Comparable technology—compare warranty, price, and local availability.
• Spiral-cell AGM (e.g., Optima YellowTop): Robust and widely available, typically with lower Ah in the same group size.
• LiFePO4 (house loads/RV/marine): Lightweight and high cycle life; requires compatible charging and BMS; cold charging limitations; only use for starting if specifically rated.

Safety and Installation Notes

• Wear eye/hand protection. Disconnect negative first; reconnect negative last.
• Do not short terminals. Tighten clamps snugly but avoid overtightening. Protect terminals from corrosion.
• Follow the vehicle/equipment manual and the Odyssey datasheet for your exact model.

FAQ

Are Odyssey batteries deep-cycle?

Yes. They are dual-purpose AGM batteries designed to provide high cranking amps and withstand repeated discharges when properly recharged.

How long do they last?

Lifespan depends on heat, vibration, depth of discharge, and charging. With proper use and charging, many users see multi-year service life; heavy deep cycling or chronic undercharging shortens life.

Can I use a regular charger?

Use a smart charger with an AGM setting and appropriate voltage limits (around 14.4–14.7 V absorption, 13.5–13.8 V float). Avoid gel-only chargers or constant trickle chargers.

Will my alternator fully charge an Odyssey battery?

Most modern alternators can maintain an AGM, but short trips and low voltage regulators may not fully charge after deep use. Supplement with a smart charger if the vehicle sees frequent short drives.

Do they work in cold weather?

Yes, when sized correctly and kept fully charged. Higher CCA models improve cold cranking; keep the battery charged for best winter performance.

Note: Specifications (CCA, Ah, warranty) vary by model. Confirm details on the product label or datasheet for your specific battery.