do i need a new battery?

[400EXcrazy]

i live in tennessee and it gets pretty cold outside, my 400ex is in my garage but the battery keeps dieing, this is the second time in a week i had to charge the battery. i just put a new fuse and spark plug in it too. whats wrong do i need a new battery

[4TraxRider]

Is it dead before you start it? If your draining it trying to start it for long periods of time, then it isn't your battery. If it starts fine but the bettery is always dead, then it sounds like a new battery.

[400EXcrazy]

its when i try to start it, i started it today fine but i went over to a friends house at like 9 30pm i tryed to start it and it wouldnt start

[Pappy]

how old is the battery?

do you have a multimeter to get some readings from the battery?

[400EXcrazy]

no i dont have one, the battery is about a year and a half old

[Pappy]

on average a cycle battery wil fail within its first 2 years of service. with proper care and normal temperatures longer life can be expected. id say she is probably on her way out and a replacement is needed.


everyone should have a multimeter in thier toolbox. you can get them for less then $5 for a basic unit. it takes alot of geuss work out of electrical issues.

[400EXcrazy]

ok cool thanks

[Pappy]

btw... the stock battery # for the 400ex is YTX9-BS. there is a direct fit upgrade unit available that has a signi***ant increase in cold crank amperes. the negative on the upgrade is that its hard to find. i have them but i sell batteries for a living


stay away from the dealer unless they treat you right. you shouldnt pay over $60 for that battery and by now it could be less then $50. (i havent checked retail pricing in awhile)

[bone705]

u might check at wal-mart. u can get one for under $50. i got a batery for my 300ex from there and it seems to be holding up good.

[f1502nv]

i found with my 300 if the light switch is on it will drain the battery even if you DONT have any lights on it!!!!