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7 Best Snowmobile Batteries (Reviews) in 2022
We’re here to guide you in your search for a good snowmobile battery, and we’ve put together a list of potential choices. The reviews below highlight their most relevant assets and show you which features you should keep an eye out for in this category of products.
1. Yuasa YUAM320BS YTX20L-BS Battery
You don’t need to add any water to this battery before you start using it, because it comes in a maintenance-free design. It produces 18 amperes per hour and works on 12 Volts.
It is totally sealed, and therefore the acid will not spill. Instead, it is absorbed in special plates that are designed with glass mat separators. It uses advanced lead-calcium technology to hold its specific gravity up to three times longer than other similar batteries, so its life expectancy is significantly extended.
When it’s delivered to the customer, the model is supplied dry with the acid bottle in the packaging. It measures 6.87 by 3.43 by 6.12 inches. These details are essential because you need to make sure it fits correctly with your vehicle’s size.
This item also comes with pre-measured acid tubes. In spite of not needing any refills, this battery does, however, require some occasional recharging.
Pros
If you want to acquire an affordable and versatile option, keep in mind that this 12 Volt model has a sealed design and that it is completely maintenance-free according to the seller.
Because it has a spill-proof construction, this 18 amp-hour battery absorbs all the acid so that no accidents occur.
According to the manufacturer, the product measures 6.87" x 3.43" x 6.12" and it is supplied dry alongside an acid bottle.
This choice was made using advanced lead-calcium technology and, as a result, it can hold its gravity three times longer than most conventional batteries.
Cons
A handful of previous buyers said that the batteries that they were given stopped working as expected after the first six months.
There was a customer who remarked that he was provided with a defective battery that never took full charge. This was the only reviewer who had this issue at the time we did the research.
2. KMG Yamaha 650 XVS650 V-Star All 1998-2011 YT12B-BS Battery
The battery works for a vehicle running on 12 Volts, and it generates 10 amperes per hour and a CCA of 150. It’s regarded as high performance, and it is delivered in a sealed design that will prevent the acid from leaking. The spill-proof design makes for a very durable model.
It also does not require maintenance, since you don’t need to add water to make it work properly. It measures 5.9 by 2.7 by 5.11 inches, and it holds voltage longer if you keep it in standby mode, requiring less charging than usual.
This model is also developed to withstand shock and vibrations so that no damage can occur. What’s more, according to some customer reviews, this model delivers excellent quality for its price and also lasts a longer time than other similar alternatives. One minor drawback of this item is that no instructions are included in the packaging.
Pros
This is one of those batteries that do not require maintenance as the users do not have to add water in order for it to work.
If you own a vehicle that runs on 12 Volts, this is clearly an option for you. Plus, many of its current users speak highly of it.
The sealed design of the product makes it safe as acid won’t unexpectedly leak from it. Owners consider this a great advantage.
Because it was built to withstand shocks and vibrations, the risk of it getting damaged is significantly low.
Cons
The main disadvantage of this battery is that it does not come shipped alongside instructions. As a result, it might take you a while to understand how to operate it.
One previous customer remarked that the negative terminal of the product that he was shipped was damaged. There were no other similar reports so far.
3. KMG Yamaha 50 YW50A Zuma 2002-2012 YTX5L-BS Sealed Battery
A part of the sealed, maintenance-free battery family, this model works on 12 Volts and generates 4 amperes per hour, with a CCA of 80. It’s fit for a smaller vehicle, and it measures 4.5 by 2.75 by 4.3 inches.
It is delivered already charged so that you can use it straight out of the box. It does not require constant maintenance, because the sealed leak-proof design makes acid leaks improbable, but you do need to recharge this item at least once in a while.
These batteries are shipped pre-filled and ready to install. They’re considered a dry design and are delivered sealed.
However, it does have ventilation slots on the lid that are added to let out the pressure that could build up inside because of heat cycling. This measure is taken so that in case the battery is overcharged, it doesn't explode.
Pros
This option is shipped already charged so that you can use it right out of the box, which is a plus according to its owners.
Additionally, this battery does not require consistent maintenance and it has a design that is completely leak-proof.
The model is a perfect fit for those in need of a 12 volt-unit that can generate 4 amperes per hour. It measures 4.5 x 2.75 x 4.3 inches.
To make it as safe as possible, the manufacturer has fitted it with ventilation slots so that the built-up pressure can be eliminated.
Cons
Some of its customers were unhappy with the fact that they were not delivered batteries that were already charged. Not many such situations were reported.
One of the buyers said that the unit that he received did not hold a charge. Once again, this issue was not encountered by many of the current users of the device.
4. Mighty Max Battery YTX20L-BS Gel 12V 18AH
This model is a maintenance-free battery that measures 6.88 by 3.42 by 6.10 inches. Its polarity matches negative on the left side and positive on the right, so it should be easy to install even by those with minimal mechanical skills.
It’s a factory activated gel battery, which means it does not require any acid pack. Its design is developed to function straight after it’s taken out of the delivery box. No maintenance is needed, but you can extend the lifespan of the original model by adding extra electrolytes.
The battery can be mounted in any position, and there’s no risk of leakage or other malfunctions. It can also resist shock and vibrations and performs just the same regardless of the temperature conditions.
Unlike other alternatives, this one is environmentally friendly and doesn’t leave any pollutants behind. No fumes or chemicals escape the battery casing.
Pros
At 6.88 x 3.42 x 6.10 inches, this alternative is compact and easy to use even by those who have limited mechanical skills.
This gel battery does not use acid packs and it was manufactured in such a way so that you can install it and use it right out of the box.
As the seller argues, the option is maintenance free. You can successfully expand its lifespan by adding additional electrolytes to it.
If you are an environmentalist, you will be happy to find out that this product does not pollute. Also, no chemicals or fumes escape from the casing.
Cons
There was one reviewer who argued that the battery that he was shipped was used because its terminals were rusty. No other buyer had this particular problem.
This model is kind of expensive when compared to its alternative. Therefore, not all those interested might be able to afford it.
5. Replacement Battery 375cca High Performance WPX20-BS Sealed
This sealed battery is a maintenance-free model, requiring no acid water or any refilling throughout its lifespan. It is delivered factory activated, and it can be installed right away without any specialized help, even by those with little mechanical skills.
The high-performance model generates 18 amperes per hour and has a CCA value of 375. It works for vehicles running on 12 Volts. It’s compatible with numerous brands and vehicles including Indian, Ducati, Honda, ATVs, and snowmobiles.
It’s also protected by a one-year warranty from the manufacturer, which can be helpful in case bad weather takes a toll on the durability of this device. This product is rechargeable, OEM-compatible, and can be used as a replacement.
One aspect that many customers have found helpful is that the model is delivered with brand new hardware, which means it has good quality and a lot of accessories for its price range.
Pros
This is another maintenance free option that might catch your attention, especially if you do not mind paying a few extra dollars on a device of this kind.
As expected, this battery is sealed and it is completely maintenance free as you do not have to add water in order for it to function.
The product is activated in the factory before it is shipped and, because of this, it can be installed and utilized right out of the box.
Users argue that the biggest advantage of the unit is that it is compatible with a wide array of vehicles, including those manufactured by Honda or Ducati.
Cons
One aspect that you should be aware of before you order this model is its price.
Just like in the case of any products of this sort, when handling it, you have to wear protective gear so that you do not expose yourself to chemicals such as lead.
6. Mighty Max Battery YTX20L-BS Replaces Bombardier Ski-Doo 800 Summit
Measuring 6.88 by 3.42 by 6.10 inches, this battery is negative on its left side and positive on its right. It’s designed for a 12-volt vehicle, and it generates 18 amperes per hour and 270 cold cranking amps. It’s a sealed lead acid model, which means it’s cost-efficient but also has more benefits than the unsealed alternative.
For example, the SLA/AGM spill proof device has a high discharge rate and deep discharge recover. It can also operate at any temperature, so it will be especially helpful if you plan to use it for a snowmobile and it has a long service life thanks to its durability.
It’s rechargeable and it can be mounted in any position because it will resist shock and vibrations and no damage will occur in these cases. This item is capable of high performance, and it’s also backed by a 30-day refund policy and a warranty that’s available for one full year.
Pros
This rechargeable battery is quite practical as it can be mounted in various positions. Moreover, it can resist vibrations and shocks.
If you want an option that performs well in both high and low temperatures, be sure to add this one to your shortlist as it will surely suit your needs.
The product is backed by a 30-day refund policy and by a 1-year warranty, which is a feature that many appreciate.
This is a spill-proof battery that has a long service life and that can be installed even by those who have little experience with devices of this type.
Cons
This battery only comes supplied with some extra screws. If necessary, you have to purchase a wire harness and/or mounting accessories independently.
What is more, there was a buyer who said that installing it in place was quite a hassle. This was the only reviewer who had this problem.
7. PowerStar Yuasa High Performance Maintenance Free Battery YTX24HL-BS
This maintenance-free battery is designed to be a good choice for motorcycles, scooters, and ATVs, but its capacity couldn’t sustain a larger vehicle. It’s an AGM sealed model, which means there’s no risk of leaking and other related damage.
It’s developed to recycle gases internally during operation and charging process to prevent pollution and lower its impact on the environment. It has a valve-regulated lead-acid (VLRA) design, which helps eliminate gassing.
The lead-calcium plates increase its storage life, as well as its CCA performance and helps the vehicle maintain reliable voltage. The manufacturer backs this model with a 2-year warranty, which will prove helpful in case any damage occurs during use.
Unfortunately, a few customers have made complaints saying that it can be slightly more difficult to install this battery than other similar products, but with some help, you’ll be able to get through in no time.
Pros
This battery is highly versatile as it can be utilized to power ATVs, scooters and motorcycles alike. Yet, it cannot sustain more sizeable vehicles.
Because this is an AGM product, you can rest assured that it won’t leak or cause any similar damages.
This model features lead-calcium plates, a feature that actually increases the storage life of the product. It is covered by a 2-year warranty.
Given that this device was specially constructed so that it recycles the gases that it produces while running, it will not pollute the environment.
Cons
The one issue that buyers remarked about this product is that this battery is slightly more difficult to install than other counterparts of this type.
On top of that, the price of the unit is a tad higher than that of other units that are also available. Most do not consider this to be a major drawback.
This Year’s Buying Guide
If you’re looking for a replacement for your snowmobile battery, you’re probably wondering which model available for sale can offer you better performance for your vehicle. We can help you make up your mind, given that we’ve researched this topic and we put our findings into a comprehensive buying guide.
The features that you need to keep an eye out for to make sure you get the best option for your needs are listed below with detailed advice.
Which type to choose
There are several types of snowmobile batteries, and you should, first of all, decide which one you prefer, so you can narrow down your search and make it more efficient.
The first option would be a lithium-ion battery, which guarantees you significant weight savings. It will also offer you high performance and an extended lifespan since you can expect lithium to last twice as long as a lead-acid battery, which is perhaps the most common option.
Another alternative you have is perhaps choosing a snowmobile gel battery, which is delivered sealed and can be operated at any angle without any risks. The same is true for AGM batteries, which, despite their slightly different construction, offer the same benefits.
They tend to last a little longer than the typical unsealed choice, so it’s a good option for those who are looking for the middle ground. The last one you can try is a standard lead-acid battery, which is a cheap snowmobile battery, but it is prone to leaking or other malfunctions.
As far as snowmobile battery maintenance goes, these issues can be avoided if you choose to go for a sealed model, which prevents acid spilling by using absorbent plates and glass mat separators and significantly increases the lifespan of the battery. This might be a more cost-effective option.
Battery power
You need to pay attention to the amount of power that the battery will generate for your vehicle, and make sure that it’s sufficient. The model that you choose needs to have the same voltage as your vehicle, but the number of amperes per hour and the cold cranking amps can differ.
If you don’t know this already, the CCA (cold-cranking amps) measures how much current your battery requires if you were to start the engine in cold weather conditions. If you live in a cooler climate, we suggest you pick with care.
Of course, as the power specifications go up, so does the price of an item, so it’s mostly your budget and how much you intend to spend to replace your current battery that’s the issue here.
Other related issues include reserve capacity, often overlooked but crucial in the process. The RC measures the amount of time for which your accessories will run without being powered by the engine.
The installation process should also be as easy as it gets because most manufacturers do not deliver detailed instructions. Also, if you choose to buy a pre-filled option with low maintenance, you can start using it straight after it was delivered.
Other details to consider
Perhaps one of the most critical issues is that the battery needs to fit the measurements of your vehicle, and you can make sure that happens by respecting the indications of your snowmobile brand and possibly choosing a battery that it produces itself. If the battery fits the measurements of your vehicle, you can avoid many problems, such as heavy vibrations or battery failure. The device also needs to have the same voltage.
One very relevant aspect when it comes to battery life is the time of its fabrication. A battery can lose strength even if it’s not used, only kept in storage, so make sure that when you buy yours, it’s just been issued by the manufacturer. Depending on the way the manufacturer marks the date of issue on the particular model, you should learn to spot this detail and choose accordingly.
Also, a warranty from the factory can be of great help when making this decision, because in case any malfunctions occur, you can use it to extend the life of the product a little bit more. Our advice would be to go for the item which has the most extended free-replacement period because in case anything breaks down you’re going to need to receive a brand new device.
Make sure you don’t neglect the instructions on the installation process, because the warranty will not cover any malfunctions caused by that. Other factors such as durability should also be taken into account.
Bibliography:
1) How to Remove & Store your Battery
3) Can a snowmobile run without a battery?
4) The Evolution Of Snowmobile Electrical Systems
November 22, 2019 at 8:30 pm
I am looking for a replacement battery for my 500cc Polaris snowmobile , specifically a gel or AGM. My present one is 6.5 h x5.25wx3.5 deep . What is recommended?
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November 25, 2019 at 9:04 am
Hi Mike. You can check out the below battery. Please let me know if it suits your needs. If not, I’ll come up with some other ones.
https://www.amazon.com/Weize-YTX14AH-BS-High-Performance-Rechargeable/dp/B07VWVTL1V/
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