Can I connect a battery tender to the auxilliary terminals?

[manowar669]

My 04 1150RA has a weak battery from disuse and the cold. I jumped it from my car using the auxilliary terminals no problem. Can I connect a trickle charge to those Aux terminals ( instead of the accessory port)? I've read about the differences between chargers for the lead/acid batteries and the gel types, so I know about that, just what connection type.

[CycleRob]

Yes.

Any time you connect any battery charger, hook up to the battery before you connect or turn on the A-C power. Likewise, disconnect the A-C power before you unhook from the battery. What you are trying to avoid is an electronics damaging voltage spike generated by a 12v powered make or break connection.

[jimcameron]

What type of charger were you planning on using? The BMW gel suitable charger has the plug that goes right into the accessory socket. Battery Tender Plus can also be equiped with a BMW plug for the accessory socket.

If you were planning on using a car battery type charger I would seek some more wisdom from the tech wizards here on the board. Personally, I'm a chicken and purchased the BMW charger. Works great, and no "issues" to contend with should the battery or other electrical component get fried.

Ride on.

[frozennorth]

The Battery Tender Plus is great and waaaaay cheaper than the BMW charger. Also better IMHO. If you have a gel battery the Battery Tender part number is 021-0156. They don't sell the adapter for your accessory plug, but any BMW dealership will sell you one for $12. It took me 10 minutes and 10 cents in shrink-down tubing to make up the connection. Just clip off the flat lead ends and attach the plug. You will notice that you need to cut the wire that has the fuse link and reverse it to get enough wire to get into the plug fittings. If you want to do this, and want a pic, I'd be happy to send one.

Cheers