Group 49 (H8, L5, 88L5) Battery Knowledge Book - Specification Differences, Dimensional Characteristics, How to Charge

BCI Group 49 or Group H8 batteries are highly popular for automotive and truck applications, especially for starting engines and supporting various equipment like winches, pumps, and multimedia devices when the vehicle is off. Despite being often considered interchangeable, understanding key differences between these batteries is imperative before making a purchase.

Catalog

Group 49 and Group H8 (L5, 88L5) Battery Specifications and Differences

Standard Group 49 batteries measure up to 13.9375 x 6.875 x 7.5 inches (354 x 175 x 190 mm), while H8 batteries are sized at 354 x 175 x 190 mm. In contrast, Group 93 batteries are slightly shorter at 354 x 175 x 175 mm, which marginally affects their capacity and cold cranking amperage (CCA). The minor size variations can impact the battery's fitting and performance, making it essential to verify compatibility with your vehicle or application.

AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries are the most favored within the Group 49 category due to their maintenance-free nature, increased vibration and impact resistance, and superior recovery after deep discharge. This characteristic is particularly advantageous in modern vehicles equipped with Stop&Go technology. These batteries typically feature a capacity of around 90-95 Ah, a CCA rating of 850-950 Amps, an MCA rating of 975-1150 Amps, an RC value of 160-170 minutes, and a weight ranging from 57-63 pounds.

While traditional flooded batteries are being supplanted by AGM variants, lithium Group 49 batteries are also emerging in the market, offering a significant weight reduction for specific applications. It’s notable that while lithium options present compelling advantages such as higher energy density and longevity, their cost and specific charging requirements necessitate careful consideration.

The following cross-reference chart lists some of the most popular BCI Group 49 and EN/DIN H8 (L5, 88L5) batteries:

Model	Battery Type Cell Type	Capacity (Ah) RC (min)	CCA MCA	Weight (lbs/kg) Review
ACDelco 49AGM Professional	Starting AGM	95 160	900 -	58.6 lbs; 26.6 kg -
Bosch S6588B S6 Flat Plate AGM Battery	Starting AGM	92 160	850 -	61.9 lbs; 28.1 kg -
Deka 9AGM49 AGM Intimidator Battery	Starting AGM	92 170	850 975	58.5 lbs; 26.5 kg -
Delphi BU9049 MaxStart	Starting AGM	92 170	850 -	58 lbs; 26.3 kg -
Duracell AGM49 Battery	Starting AGM	92 170	50 975	57.8 lbs; 26.2 kg -
Exide Edge FP-AGML5/49 Flat Plate AGM	Dual Purpose AGM	92 160	850 -	59.8 lbs; 27.1 kg -
Full River FT890-49	Dual Purpose AGM	80 168	890 1070	61.1 lbs; 27.7 kg -
Interstate MTX-49/H8	Starting AGM	95 160	900 1000	59 lbs; 26.7 kg -
Odyssey 49-950 Performance	Dual Purpose AGM	94 160	950 1150	62.8 lbs; 28.5 kg -
Weize Group 49 Battery	Dual Purpose AGM	95 160	900 -	56.43 lbs; 25.56 kg -
XS Power D4900	Dual Purpose AGM	80 169	- 1075	59 lbs; 26.8 kg -

Group 49 (H8, L5, 88L5) Batteries as Automotive Starting Batteries

Group 49 (H8, L5, 88L5) batteries are predominantly utilized as starting batteries in vehicles.

They typically possess an average CCA rating of 900 Amps. What does this mean in practical terms? Well, it's sufficient for cranking large diesel and gasoline internal combustion engines.

Given their robust construction, most modern Group 49 batteries are AGM sealed lead-acid batteries. Now, why is the AGM technology significant in this context? AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries offer excellent starting capabilities and perform well under deep discharge conditions. This combination of features is particularly beneficial in demanding environments.

Interestingly, although labeled as starting batteries, their dual-purpose nature with approximately 160+ minutes of reserve capacity and numerous charge/discharge cycles makes them versatile for various applications, including automotive, marine, and light industrial uses.

One might ask, "How do these batteries manage to balance both starting and deep cycling capabilities?" The internal design and chemical composition allow these batteries to excel in both areas, providing reliable power amid fluctuating demands.

Group 49 (H8, L5, 88L5) Batteries as Backup Sump Pump Batteries

Group 49 batteries, although not ideally suited for extended deep-discharge situations, can serve effectively as emergency backup sump pump batteries. But what makes a battery truly suitable for such emergencies? A fully charged, high-quality Group 49 battery is capable of powering a sump pump for several hours or even days. However, one might wonder, how does frequent deep discharge impact the battery's longevity? Regular deep discharges will shorten the battery's life, a concern especially relevant for starting batteries not engineered for continuous deep cycling.

Is there a way to counterbalance this issue and ensure the battery remains viable for emergencies? Regular charging and maintenance routines are crucial. These practices can help mitigate long-term degradation, promoting a more balanced approach that maximizes both the immediate utility during emergencies and the operational longevity of the battery.

How to Charge Group 49 (H8, L5, 88L5) Batteries

Using an External Charger

Opt for a smart charger that's compatible with wet cell, gel cell, and AGM batteries and that offers a maximum charging current of 10-15 Amps. For instance, a 12V 10Ah AGM charger can recharge a 90 Ah half-discharged battery in under 5 hours. This shows the efficiency these smart chargers bring to the table.

Upon full charge, the charger shifts to maintenance mode. Simply put, it keeps the battery fully charged without the risk of overcharging.

Specialized lithium battery chargers or AGM chargers with a dedicated lithium mode are particularly useful for charging lithium Group 49 batteries. These specialized chargers ensure the delicate lithium battery chemistry is handled properly.

Due to the size difference between a 49-cell battery and an H8-cell battery, measure the battery compartment first - most H8-cell battery compartments can accommodate a 49-cell battery, but this is not always the case.

Model	Battery Type Cell Type	Capacity (Ah) RC (min)	CCA MCA	Weight (lbs/kg) Review
ACDelco 49AGM Professional	Starting AGM	95 160	900 -	58.6 lbs; 26.6 kg -
Bosch S6588B S6 Flat Plate AGM Battery	Starting AGM	92 160	850 -	61.9 lbs; 28.1 kg -
Deka 9AGM49 AGM Intimidator Battery	Starting AGM	92 170	850 975	58.5 lbs; 26.5 kg -
Delphi BU9049 MaxStart	Starting AGM	92 170	850 -	58 lbs; 26.3 kg -
Duracell AGM49 Battery	Starting AGM	92 170	50 975	57.8 lbs; 26.2 kg -
Exide Edge FP-AGML5/49 Flat Plate AGM	Dual Purpose AGM	92 160	850 -	59.8 lbs; 27.1 kg -
Full River FT890-49	Dual Purpose AGM	80 168	890 1070	61.1 lbs; 27.7 kg -
Interstate MTX-49/H8	Starting AGM	95 160	900 1000	59 lbs; 26.7 kg -
Odyssey 49-950 Performance	Dual Purpose AGM	94 160	950 1150	62.8 lbs; 28.5 kg -
Weize Group 49 Battery	Dual Purpose AGM	95 160	900 -	56.43 lbs; 25.56 kg -
XS Power D4900	Dual Purpose AGM	80 169	- 1075	59 lbs; 26.8 kg -