Is it possible to use leisure batteries

[Michael CallaghanParticipant @michaelcallaghan68621]

Hi, is it possible to use leisure batteries to power a 5 inch gauge locomotive. Thanks

[Michael CallaghanParticipant @michaelcallaghan68621]

[Dave HalfordParticipant @davehalford22513]

Caravan motor movers are powered from the leisure battery so yes, how long for is another issue, but they are more suitable for deep discharge than a normal car battery.

[noel shelleyParticipant @noelshelley55608]

Traction batteries would be best but leisure batteries would work ! Noel.

[Adrian R2Participant @adrianr2]

If you have them already then yes it will probably work, if you are buying for the purpose then have a read up on the various types of mobility scooter battery available as these are designed for traction use.

Note: I don't have a loco but I have used them for kids ride on toys (think Toylander) and they worked well; this was with a reclaimed controller with current discharge and low voltage safeties – matching controller to battery and motor is important for good service and longevity.

[Michael CallaghanParticipant @michaelcallaghan68621]

Thanks chaps, I do have a pair of leisure batteries hanging around doing nothing, so would like to get some use out of them.

[bernard towersParticipant @bernardtowers37738]

You say hanging around, for how long and have they been looked after?

[Michael CallaghanParticipant @michaelcallaghan68621]

They have been of battery keepers, so ok to use.

[Chris GunnParticipant @chrisgunn36534]

Michael, I made a 5" scale steam outline but battery powered Boxhill, and this would pull 5 or 5 children all day on a 60ah battery.

Chris Gunn

[Chris GunnParticipant @chrisgunn36534]

Just remembered I have a picture in my album.

Chris Gunn

[Ady1Participant @ady1]

Lovely

[Michael CallaghanParticipant @michaelcallaghan68621]

Just a little follow up, the battery’s worked ok. And I was able to move my locomotive over the gravel driveway with ease. Something that was always very hard to do before. So job done. Thanks for input.

[not done it yetParticipant @notdoneityet]

I was able to move my locomotive over the gravel driveway with ease. Something that was always very hard to do before. So job done.

A suitably padded sack-barrow would suffice? 🙂

[Author]

Posts