[misc.handicap] Wheelchair Batteries

edward@TWG.COM (Edward C. Bennett) (02/28/90)

Index Number: 6995

I find myself at the time of year when it's necessary to replace my
chair's batteries. Before I go to a WC dealer and plunk down lord-knows-
how-much for a pair "real" WC batteries I want to explore the alternatives.

For the past 11 years I've always used regular ol' lead-acid deep-cycle
wet batteries, they're fine except that they require semi-monthly inspection
of the water levels.

What about sealed "no maintenance" batteries? I've heard of people trying
these, how long do they last (on a "how far can you go on a charge" and
on a "months of service" basis)? What about the new gel cell batteries?
Anybody using these things?

What about dealers? Do people deal with a medical supply house or does
anyone go directly to a battery wholesaler?

Thanks in advance
--
Edward C. Bennett - The other MMDF guy			edward@twg.com
The Wollongong Group					(415) 962-7252
1129 San Antonio Road, Palo Alto, CA 94303
   "He's become a growling, snarling mass of white-hot canine terror"