Shower of Sparks (vibrator) AGM Battery

[1911Tex]

How often do you change your SLA (sealed lead acid) 1.3AH AGM battery? Parts manual calls it a vibrator battery. Do these batteries recharge? From my understanding, the "shower of sparks" comes from this battery when initially engaging the starter. I noticed after one year, the engine did not start as quickly as usual, my mechanic recommended replacing this SLA battery and boom, quick start again. Originally had a Duracell Ultra SLAA12-1.3F and replaced with same from local Batteries+Bulbs retail store. Thoughts? Thanks.

[RMarkSampson]

Thanks for reminding me - needs to be part of my annual check I'm currently in the middle of...

For the battery still being viable - believe a simple voltage check to see if it still produces its rated voltage is all you need to do. However, if you want to know "is it working?" - there is a Service Bulletin that provides some guidance on testing: DAC1-74-02 Date Issued: February 18, 2000, Title: Starting Vibrator Battery Installation

10.16 Testing Procedure
10.16.1 Disconnect wire harness from previously installed fuse holder.
10.16.2 Disconnect and isolate engine starter cable from starter.
10.16.3 Set aircraft BAT master switch to ON.
10.16.4 Turn key to start position the vibrator should be heard.
10.16.5 Set BAT master switch to OFF.
10.16.6 Assemble fuse holder and connect starter cable.

I certainly would NOT stand in the arc of the propeller when conducting this test...

[1911Tex]

I just read that the vibrator battery is good only for 50-150 full discharge cycles. As with any battery, they get weaker with time. Even perhaps at less than 50-150 cycles, there may? be a lessor degree of potency. Cheap to replace at each annual.

https://www.batteriesplus.com/battery/s ... laa12=1.3f