Battery Opinions

[SickStroke6.0]

Okay so I think I've figured out my AirDog low pressure issue. My batteries are weak. They are only 750 cca's, and they are three year old Duralasts. So I'm thinking they can't keep up anymore, especially with the huge voltage needs of my truck (gauges and monitors everywhere, navigation, big stereo, 4 HID's, big 'ole AirDog).

I've narrowed this down because I can use my fuel pressure gauge as a voltage gauge too When I first crank my truck it's at like 10.9-11.2 volts, and it reads about 60 PSI. Let it idle a little bit, voltage will raise to 13.5-13.8 and pressure goes up to 74 PSI. After driving with accessories and A/C on it will sit about 12.9-13.1 at idle. I'm thinking I need new batteries

So what brand? I was kinda leaning towards Motorcrafts since the originals lasted six and a half years.

What size should I get as well so that I can assure all these accessories get plenty of power??

Oh, and BTW, alternator is a brand new OEM unit.

[CowboyCody]

I have a set of motorcraft maxx in my truck, they are 3 years old with no issues they still spin the truck good even in below zero temps. I cant complain about them but they are expensive, especially compared to duralasts.

[ars5147]

I have motorcraft 850s. I'm pretty sure 850 is what is the minimum required for the 6.0. I got my two motorcrafts for about $224 total, if I remember correctly, at the dealership where my friend is a tech. They have a 3 year free replacement and then a pro-rated warranty after that.

Go with the motorcrafts

[SickStroke6.0]

Okay, can I go any bigger than 850's? I'd like to go as big as possible.

The guys at AutoZone told me that my truck is consuming so much electricity, that the alternator can't keep up. Is this true? They said no matter what size battery is in there it will still not keep up. Doesn't make much sense to me... But just figured I'd ask.

I just want to be holding 13.5 V minimum when driving down the road, to keep my FICM and AirDog happy!

[05harley]

Take your pick

Ford Service Coupons and Rebates | Official Ford Owner Site

[ars5147]

You can go higher than 850 but if you are consuming that much power, you should look into a higher output alternator. They can be pretty pricey though.

Rollin Smoke Diesel. 2003-2005 Ford 6.0 Powerstroke Mean Green High Output Alternator 8306

The Mean Green ones seem to be the most popular. That's one of the first sites I found but just google it, there should be more.