Experience of Red Flash starter batteries

N

neil1967

Well-Known Member
Joined
28 Nov 2007
Messages
1,148
Location
Tavira, Portugal
Visit site
I am looking to replace the starter battery fitted to my Oyster 406 / Perkins 4108. I am considering the red flash 1000 (850 CCA, 26AH) or rf 750 (925 CCA, 26AH). I would be grateful for any comments on the suitability of these batteries, and any general comments on their use.

Thanks

Neil
 
Red Flash batteries are relatively expensive, and are designed for situations in which small size or light weight are critical factors. Why on earth would you want to fit one in an Oyster 406??
 
Red Flash do what they say they do, but their biggest advantage is their small size. I have one because the battery box is limited in size and I wanted to get the biggest house battery possible but have a dedicated engine start. If you do not have a space constraint then little benefit - spend the money on bigger house batteries or some other goody. A normal engine start battery may be bigger, but is less than half the price and if you have a proper charging system will last typically just as long.
 
For a good and cheap battery MADE for Perkins Engines go to a Massey Ferguson Tractor Dealer. The Perkins 4108 was fitted to a MF 35 Tractor. If you are not sure of the size measure the one you have and give them the measurements.
 
I have one that can crank 1100 apparently.

Swings a 4108 with ease.

The small size of the battery allows me to add an extra battery to the main house bank.
 
Red Flash is a brand name belonging to DMS and from time to time they have changed what's in the box. Years back the 26Ah one that you're looking at was based on a Hawker (now Enersys) SBS30. This was developed as a turbine engine starting battery with huge performance.
I have to assume (I don't know for certain as I'm no longer involved in supplying them) from the figures on DMS's website that they are now using something different (although it's in the same unusual size box) and they have downrated it. However you must go by the figures on DMS's website, not the higher ones on some distributors' sites. DMS are the design authority on Red Flash, it's their product.
If you don't have a space/weight problem I'd use something bigger and cheaper!
 
I've used a Red Flash as a permanent liveaboard for 7 years. Very compact, but the bolts holding the cable are also very small so don't overtighten as the threads strip very easily.
 
I use the smallest of all, the 900, to start my Yanmar 3GM30.it is slightly on the underpowered side but has never failed to start the engine. Its advantage is that it fits into the small space between gearbox and boat in the tunnel.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Share this page

Top