The Drexel SLT-30 36V 18-85-17 requires a 36V industrial-grade lead-acid or lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery with a capacity of ~85Ah and specific terminal configuration. These batteries are typically dimensioned for forklift and heavy equipment applications, requiring precise voltage, discharge rate, and physical size compatibility. Always verify terminal type (e.g., DIN 2-pole) and case dimensions (approx. 17″L x 8.5″W x 10″H) when replacing.
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What voltage & capacity specs define compatibility?
The system requires 36V nominal voltage (42V fully charged for lead-acid) with discharge rates ≤C5. Capacity must match original specs (85Ah ±10%) to maintain runtime. Pro Tip: LiFePO4 upgrades often achieve 105Ah within same footprint due to higher energy density.
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Voltage alignment is critical—using 48V batteries would overload motor controllers. Capacity mismatches under 75Ah cause premature shutdowns during heavy lifts. Real-world example: A 36V 85Ah AGM battery provides 3.06kWh, supporting 6–8 hours of moderate pallet jack operation. Always check CCA (Cold Cranking Amps)—industrial units need ≥750A for reliable cold starts.
Are terminal configurations standardized?
Terminals vary by OEM—common types include DIN 2-pole, L-terminal, and SAE posts. The “17” in 18-85-17 often denotes case style/size. Measure existing terminals: DIN types use M8 bolts (15mm spacing), while L-terminals require 3/8″ lugs. Pro Tip: Reverse polarity protection circuits are mandatory when upgrading to lithium to prevent controller damage.
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| Terminal Type | Bolt Size | Applications |
|---|---|---|
| DIN 2-Pole | M8 | European equipment |
| L-Terminal | 3/8″ | North American lifts |
Can LiFePO4 replace lead-acid in SLT-30?
Yes—36V LiFePO4 packs (40–42.5V max) work with proper BMS integration. They offer 2000+ cycles vs. 500 in lead-acid. Real-world example: A 36V 100Ah lithium pack extends runtime by 30% while cutting weight from 125lbs (lead) to 75lbs. Ensure chargers have lithium modes—lead-acid algorithms overcharge LiFePO4 by 15%, causing BMS disconnects.
How critical are physical dimensions?
Case dimensions must match equipment bays—18.1″L x 8.5″W x 16.8″H is common for 85Ah units. Tolerances over 0.5″ risk installation failures. Pro Tip: Use anti-vibration pads if replacement batteries are 5% lighter to prevent terminal fatigue.
| Battery Type | Weight (lbs) | Height (in) |
|---|---|---|
| Lead-Acid | 120–135 | 16.8 |
| LiFePO4 | 65–80 | 16.5 |
What safety certifications matter?
Seek UL 2580 (EV) or IEC 62619 (industrial) certifications. Non-certified lithium batteries risk thermal runaway at 1C+ discharge rates. For lead-acid, SAE J537 ensures leak resistance. Did you know? Forklift fires increase 7× when using uncertified “budget” batteries.
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FAQs
Not recommended—series configurations require matched internal resistance (±5%). Mismatched cells cause 80%+ capacity loss within 50 cycles.
How often should battery trays be inspected?
Biweekly checks for corrosion/loose connections—acid leaks increase resistance by 0.5mΩ/month, equivalent to 15% voltage drop.
