For the rechargeable battery gurus

[Brad Buchanan]

Hey folks,

I have a ni-cad battery for a low band portable that I just repaired. I don't have the correct charger for the unit and I am planning to solder a lead with a small plug to charge it.

I need to find a charger to work with it. The battery is 11.25v. 630 mAh.

Perhaps a portable tool charger?

I would love to put a lithium ion battery in it but don't know if I can get one to fit in the case. The original battery is a Motorola HNN9027A.

Thanks in advance,

Brad
 

[kcm.MN]

If it were me, I'd make the radio much more versatile by adding a battery box that holds 8 batteries, then have a separate charger for rechargeable batteries. Chiec out this link:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/12-Volt-DC-8-x-AA-Battery-Holder-NEW-B2/232214100715?epid=1810664696&hash=item361109faeb:g:SMcAAOSw4DJYhNux

By using a box like this, you could choose to use NiCad, NiMh, rechargeable lithiums, or even disposable batteries. You can get these for either AA or AAA.

A small pouch could be attached to the back of the radio for holding the new battery pack. Probably the easiest way would be to use some good-quality double-stick carpet tape. Have a velcro (or other) closure on the pouch and it'll be easy to check or change batteries. Make the pouch waterproof and it's all the better. And finally, if you ever have batteries that leak, your radio will still be good. Just wire in a new battery box or clean up the existing box using vinegar, a toothbrush and Q-tips.
 

[kcm.MN]

Here's another 8x case that's more flat and has a cover. The cover isn't waterproof, but would help protect things.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/8-x-AA-R6-Battery-Clip-Holder-Case-Box-12V-2-1x5-5mm-DC-Power-Plug-w-Switch-Lead/253056358966?hash=item3aeb559a36:g:kMoAAOSwO9JZ5jb9
 

[guido]

Hello Brad Buchanan,

Here is what will do the job. You can get one with its own power supply. Mine is powered by my power supply. Go to Skyrc for the real thing. Plenty of knock off copies out there. Read the box for all the batteries types it can charge,

Guido.

 

[Jack345]

What are you using for a power supply.. specs show input 11 to 18 v ? DC ? If DC will small 12VDC battery charger work? Thanks
 

[guido]

Hello jack345,

A 12volt charger should work. My power source is a 15V 3.5 amp capacity. A fully charged battery should work too. The charger will show low input voltage if your source is too low,
,

Guido.
 

[RusselAZ]

Just to put it out there, I use a small battery that is supposed to be used for emergency lighting or emergency trailer brakes. Several sizes are available in both 6 and 12 volt. They are sealed and rechargeable. I use a couple at the shop for circuit testing. Get them here at true value hardware. I have a small automatic charger that does 6v and 12 volt and maintains. Cute little thing from NAPA. Us it mainly to keep the battery up on the model A. These little batteries last a loonnngg time on my radio while I'm working on my tractor.
 

[Brad Buchanan]

Thanks for all the replies.

I ordered a small charger intended for r/c applications... A little more than the battery requires and should be an interesting experiment.

Brad