Futura Trailers Battery Guide:

Understanding and Maintaining Your Trailers 12V 35Ah GEL Battery

Battery Specifications

- 12V 35Ah GEL VRLA (Valve Regulated Lead Acid) Sealed Battery
- Maintenance Free
- Dimensions: 195mm (L) x 130mm (W) x 155mm (H)
- Terminals: Threaded insert with M6 mm stud fastener
- Weight: 11.0kg

Battery Care and Maintenance

Charging Methods

Futura Trailers are equipped with multiple charging options:
1. Built-in solar panel
2. Towing charge (US models: AUX connection, NZ/Australia models: trailer light connection)
3. Built-in charger (110V/240V wall connection)

Best Practices

- Keep the battery charged at all times, even when not in use
- Regularly check the battery's voltage (12.6V or higher indicates a full charge)
- Avoid leaving the battery in a discharged state for extended periods
- For winter storage, leave the battery on a maintenance charge

Warning Signs

- Slow or failed trailer electrical systems
- Battery unable to hold a charge
- Visible damage or swelling of the battery case

Troubleshooting

1. Check for Loose Battery Terminals
Ensure terminals are tight and show no movement when gently wiggled.

2. Check the Onboard Battery Charger
- Inspect 3 Amp fuses on the supply feed and output side
- US models: Check voltage input connection at the trailer's 7-way plug (AUX pin)
- NZ/AU models: Ensure trailer running lights are on for the charger to function

3. Battery Won't Hold a Charge
A healthy battery should maintain at least 12.4V after charging. If the voltage drops significantly within a day or two, the battery may need replacement.

A bad battery can lose its charge even when disconnected from the trailer.

After charging, a battery holds a higher but temporary surface charge that dissipates after a couple of hours. Initially, the voltage may indicate a healthy level above 12.4V, but a rapid self-discharge rate can cause the voltage to drop well below this level after a day or two of sitting idle.

When a sealed battery no longer holds a charge, it has likely gone beyond repair and needs replacement.

4. Check for Bulging Battery Casing
Bulging sidewalls indicate overcharging and require battery replacement. Also, investigate the source of overcharging.

Understanding Battery Voltage

- 12.6V = 100% charged
- 12.4V = 75% charged
- 12.2V = 50% charged
- Below 12.39V = Battery needs charging

Why Batteries Go Bad

The primary cause is sulfation, a process accelerated by:
- Leaving batteries in a discharged state
- Infrequent charging
- Extended periods of disuse (e.g., winter storage)

Warranty Information

- Manufacturing defects are typically evident within the first few months of use
- Warranty does not cover:
  - Batteries left discharged for extended periods
  - Physical damage due to mishandling
  - Normal wear and tear
  - Failures due to improper maintenance

More Technical Info on Batteries

Voltage Standards
- 12.6 volts is the standard for an automobile battery such as the one installed on your Futura trailer.
- Each battery has six cells with 2.1 volts each, totalling 12.6 volts when fully charged.
- Voltage drops significantly impact power: 12.4V = 75% charged, 12.2V = 50% charged.

Charging Voltage
- During charging, the voltage should register between 13.5 to 14.5 volts. If not, the charger may need testing.

Sulfation
- Sulfation occurs when a battery discharges, creating sulphate crystals on the lead plates.
- Charging reverses most sulfation, but some crystals remain and build up over time, reducing capacity.
- Prevent sulfation by keeping the battery fully charged, especially during storage.

Maintenance Tips
- Keep the battery on a maintenance charge during winter storage.
- Regularly top off the charge during the racing season.

By following these guidelines, you can extend the life of your battery and avoid unnecessary warranty claims.