Best Lawn Mower and Tractor Batteries - Types, Sizes, and Replacements

A lawn mower, tractor, and garden starting batteries are used for starting/cranking internal combustion engines and sometimes for powering other electric loads, including lights, smaller winches, various pumps, and similar devices.

When looking for a new battery, one must pay attention to several details in order to get the right battery that will serve well for years ahead.

Updated: March 11, 2024.

On This Page:

Intro to Lawn Mower, Lawn Tractor, and Garden Starting Batteries How to Charge Lawn Mower and Tractor Batteries Most Common Lawn Mower Starting Battery Sizes U1 & U1R YTX30L-BS YTX24HL-BS YTX20L-BS YTX14-BS YTX12-BS YTX9-BS YTX5L-BS Frequently Asked Questions Few Final Words

Intro to Lawn Mower, Lawn Tractor, and Garden Starting Batteries

Riding lawn mowers, lawn tractors, power generators, and other tools and appliances are commonly powered by internal combustion engines, which use small rechargeable batteries for starting.

Most of such vehicles, tools, and appliances also feature a manual recoil starting system, but it is much more convenient to press the button or turn the key and start the engine - just like in cars ...

The size of the internal combustion engines found in power generators, lawn mowers, and tractors vary from just 2-3 HPs to large 30-40 HP gas engines powering large riding lawn mowers.

Because of that, starting batteries used in such vehicles and devices vary from small batteries being able to provide a few dozen CCA Amps to larger batteries being able to crank even a smaller car.

When looking for a lawn mower battery replacement, there are a few things to consider first:

Battery Voltage: Is a riding lawn mower battery a 12-volt battery?

Most riding lawn mowers use 12V batteries, but there are also some models, especially smaller ones, that use 6V or even 8V batteries.

Since most manufacturers tend to move to 12V electric systems, in this article, we are going to discuss only 12V batteries.

Battery Chemistry Types

There are basically two types of batteries used as starting batteries - lithium and lead-acid batteries.

Lithium batteries, even Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄) batteries, are rather sensitive power sources that feature Battery Management Systems (BMS) that make their use much safer since BMS protects the battery from unwanted events like overcharge, over-discharge, over-current, short-circuit, over-temperature, etc.

Thanks to the built-in BMS, lithium batteries can be recharged using onboard alternators and often using older style lead-acid battery chargers (model dependent), but they should NOT be recharged using modern intelligent lead-acid battery chargers - such chargers can even damage the BMS system and void the lithium battery warranty.

However, advanced AGM battery chargers that feature dedicated lithium battery charging modes are just as good as dedicated lithium battery chargers.

Although lithium starting batteries are several times lighter than lead-acid batteries, weight savings for lawn mowers and tractors, and other similar vehicles and garden tools and appliances are not always worth the price difference and potential complications. IMHO, of course.

When compared with lithium batteries, lead-acid batteries are much heavier, have issues with capacity loss when being discharged with strong currents, don't support a large number of charging/discharging cycles, etc.

But, as starting batteries, lead-acid batteries are very reliable, robust, and very tolerant to charging conditions, and they are mostly cheaper than lithium batteries.

Lead-acid batteries differ in design and can be wet/flooded, enhanced wet/flooded, Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM), and Gel-Cell batteries.

Since AGM and Gel-Cell batteries are spill-proof and maintenance-free batteries, they are recommended models for lawn mowers, lawn tractors, power generators, etc.

Terminal Position and Type

Batteries come with different terminal types and with different terminal orientations.

When buying a new battery, be sure that the terminals and the orientation of the new battery match the terminal type and orientation of the old battery.

If they don't, one may have issues connecting the new battery. If that happens, the workaround is to use cable extensions and terminal adapters.

However, the best thing to do is to get the battery with the same terminal type and orientation.

Fortunately, most starting batteries come with standardized terminals, depending on their size/group.

Cold Cranking Amps (CCA)

CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) is the maximum current that a new, fully charged, 12V battery can deliver for 30 seconds, with the voltage NOT dropping below 7.2V, at 0°F (-18°C).

Obviously, this definition is good for 12V lead-acid batteries but not for lithium batteries since discharging them down to 7.2V would damage the battery if not interrupted by the BMS. Thus, many manufacturers state CCA ratings for their lithium batteries, but they are actually maximum currents for short periods (3-5 seconds) at usually room temperatures.

The new battery replacement for starting applications should have the same or better CCA rating in order to perform well.

Battery Capacity (Ah)

The capacity of lead-acid batteries is determined by how many amps of current can new, fully charged 12V battery at 80°F (~25°C), deliver for 20 hours without its voltage falling below 10.5V.

The capacity of starting/cranking batteries is often given for a period of 10 hours and not 20 hours - they are, after all, not designed nor intended for deep discharge applications.

Reserve Capacity (RC)

RC (Reserve Capacity) is the number of minutes that a new, fully charged battery (at 80°F, ~25°C) can deliver a 25A current and maintain a voltage above its cut-off value (10.5V for lead-acid batteries).

RC value is important for deep cycle batteries used in marine applications (for trolling motors, for example), RVs (in-house batteries), solar systems (off-the-grid applications), etc., and not so for riding lawn mowers, lawn tractors, and similar.

Of course, sometimes there are other things to consider when buying a new lawn mower battery, but these are the most important ones.

How to Charge Lawn Mower and Tractor Batteries

Lawn mower and tractor starting batteries are charged via an onboard alternator and charge controller, if present. Whenever the engine is turned On, the alternator recharges the battery and keeps it fully charged.

When the batteries are being charged separately, it is important to use a proper battery charger:

• Lead-Acid Batteries: when recharging lead-acid batteries, advanced lead-acid battery chargers are recommended - such battery chargers allow the user to set the exact battery chemistry (AGM, Gel-Cell, wet/flooded, etc.) and often feature temperature probe, automatically adjusting the charging voltage according to the local temperature.
• Lithium Batteries: when recharging lithium batteries, use either lithium battery chargers or advanced multi-chemistry battery chargers that feature dedicated lithium battery charging mode.

When wintering lawn mowers and tractors with internal combustion engines, it is a good practice to recharge the battery fully and connect it to the battery maintainer during the storage period.

Lithium batteries generally have a much lower self-discharge rate than lead-acid batteries and can be left in the lawn mower and/or tractor for a longer period of time without recharging - as long as the parasite loads are minimum preferably zero.

Regardless of the battery chemistry, it is recommended to store them at room or somewhat lower temperatures, with a negative cable disconnected - in such conditions, a good AGM battery can be stored for at least 3 months, and a lithium battery for up to 6 months.

Most Common Lawn Mower Starting Battery Sizes

The following cross-reference chart lists some of the most popular lawn mower batteries and their most important features and specifications.

Note: Capacity, CCA, and weight are given for the lead-acid batteries.

Battery Size	Dimensions (inches/mm)	Capacity	CCA	Weight
U1 & U1R	7.75 x 5.1875 x 7.3125 197 x 132 x 186	35 Ah (20h)	300-320	22-26 lbs 10-11.8 kg
YTX30L-BS	6.5625 x 4.9375 x 6.875 166 x 126 x 175	30 Ah (10h)	360-400	17-22 lbs 7.7-10 kg
YTX24HL-BS	8.0625 x 3.4375 x 6.375 205 x 87 x 162	21 Ah (10h)	300-350	13-18 lbs 5.9-8.2 kg
YTX20L-BS	6.875 x 3.4375 x 6.125 175 x 87 x 155	14-20 Ah (10h)	220-330	11-14 lbs 5.0-6.4 kg
YTX14-BS	5.875 x 3.4375 x 5.75 150 x 87 x 146	12-14 Ah (10h)	190-235	8-11 lbs 3.6-5.0 kg
YTX12-BS	5.875 x 3.5 x 5.125 150 x 88 x 130	10 Ah (10h)	160-210	7-10 lbs 3.1-4.5 kg
YTX9-BS	5.875 x 3.4375 x 4.125 150 x 87 x 105	6-8 Ah (10h)	120-180	6-8 lbs 2.7-3.7 kg
YTX5L-BS	4.4375 x 2.75 x 4.125 113 x 70 x 105	4 Ah (10h)	70-80	3.3-4.5 lbs 1.5-2 kg

As one can see, CCA values differ from 70-80 Amps for YTX5L-BS batteries to 400+ Amps for YTX30L-BS AGM batteries, while lithium models often can provide 500 or even more starting Amps.

More information about battery groups can be found at Powersports, ATV, and Motorcycle Battery Cross Reference Chart and BCI Battery Group Size Chart.

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Best Group U1 & U1R Battery Equivalents and Replacements

BCI Group U1 and U1R batteries are mostly general-purpose/deep cycle batteries, with only very few models being designed as dual-purpose and/or starting batteries.

Groups U1 and U1R batteries' physical dimensions are (L x W x H) 7 3/4 x 5 3/16 x 7 5/16 inches (~197 x 132 x 186 mm) with the U1 battery having a positive terminal on the left side, and U1R having a positive terminal post on the right side of the battery (hence the 'R' as part of the label).

The average lead-acid U1/U1R battery's 10-20h capacity is usually in the 33-37 Ah range, and the average weight is around 23-26 pounds.

As starting batteries, best U1/U1R batteries feature CCA ratings in the 300-320 range, while most of the batteries are able to provide at least 300 Amps for 3-5 seconds, with some models being able to provide 500+ Amps for 3-5 seconds.

The following cross-reference chart lists the most popular U1/U1R batteries with their most important features and specifications.

Best BCI Group U1 and U1R AGM batteries include:

VMAXTANKS V35-857 Battery

VMAXTANKS V35-857 battery, which features a CCA rating of 300 Amps and an RC value of 75 minutes at an acceptable weight of 25 pounds (~11.3 kg).

VMAXTANKS V35-857 battery is labeled as a deep-cycle battery, but it is an excellent all-around performer and is commonly used as a starting battery in lawn mowers and lawn tractors that use U1 batteries.

Also, it is often used as a kayak trolling battery, as a small off-the-grid battery, as a solar battery, as a backup/UPS battery, and similar.

The battery is able to withstand the following:

• 3500+ cycles at 10% DoD,
• 1500 cycles at 25% DoD,
• 900 cycles at 50% DoD,
• 300 cycles at 100% DoD,

which is a very good result for a battery that is labeled as a deep-cycle battery, but it is actually a dual-purpose battery.

VMAXTANKS V35-857 battery is a spill-proof, maintenance-free battery that can operate in almost any position (except upside down), it accepts charge well and features a relatively low self-discharge rate (1-2% per month at room temperature).

Mighty Max ML-U1-CCAHR battery

Mighty Max ML-U1-CCAHR battery is a specially designed U1 lawn mower and tractor battery.

It is lighter than other U1 batteries, weighs only 14.57 pounds (~6.6 kg), and features a 10h capacity of "only" 18 Ah.

But, Mighty Max ML-U1-CCAHR also features a CCA rating of 320 Amps and is able to provide 20 Amps for 30 minutes down to 9.6 volts.

When the battery is stored for a longer period of time, recommended charging point is @55-60% SoC, or when the voltage is around 12.35.

Note: the battery lifetime can be even prolonged if the stored battery is connected to the intelligent battery maintainer.

When the battery is stored @20°C, the average self-discharge rate is ~3% per month - recharge the stored battery every 3-6 months, and it will be fine.

For lawn mowers and tractors with a battery charging system requiring only starting/cranking U1 battery, Mighty Max ML-U1-CCAHR is perhaps the best choice.

Weize LFP1235 Deep Cycle AGM Battery

Weize LFP1235 is another excellent all-around performer, being able to provide 350 Amps for 5 seconds and 20.4 Amps for 60 minutes, down to 10.5 volts.

Also, it is one of the lighter AGM U1 batteries, weighing 23.2 pounds (~10.5 kg).

Weize LFP1235 (sometimes labeled as "Weize TL1235") deep cycle battery is a spill-proof, maintenance-free, Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) battery that can operate in almost any position (except upside down), and it is vibration- and heat-resistant.

Thanks to the very balanced design, the Weize LFP1235 battery is one of the most popular U1 batteries, commonly used as lawn mower/tractor battery, wheelchair battery, in electric vehicles, for security systems, UPS battery, etc.

Mighty Max ML35-12 Deep Cycle AGM Battery

Mighty Max ML35-12 is one of the most, if not the most, popular U1 battery - it has excellent features, it comes at an affordable price, and it is one of the best-documented batteries of this size.

Mighty Max ML35-12 battery is a deep cycle AGM SLA battery, being able to provide 330 Amps for 5 seconds and 17.2 Amps for 60 minutes (down to 10.5 volts).

It accepts charge well - it features a max. charging current 10.5 Amps, which is excellent for a 37 Ah battery.

However, like all other batteries, when being recharged using AGM battery chargers, the charging current should be kept around 0.1C-0.15C.

Mighty Max ML35-12 battery also features a very low self-discharge rate - when the battery is stored @20°C, capacity drops:

• after 3 months: 90%
• after 6 months: 80%
• after 12 months: 60%

As a general rule of thumb, lead-acid batteries should be recharged when their capacity drops down to 80%. Or, they should be connected to the advanced battery maintainer.

If You are looking for an all-around U1 battery, Mighty Max ML35-12 is one of the best choices.

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Of course, other batteries in the chart are also commonly used in applications requiring U1 and U1R batteries and are tested by numerous users in real-life situations on a daily basis.

 

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Best Group YTX30L-BS Battery Equivalents and Replacements

YTX30L-BS batteries feature physical dimensions of (L x W x H) 6.5625 x 4.9375 x 6.875 inches (166 x 126 x 175 mm) and are some of the largest Motorcycle/Powersports batteries, optimized for starting/cranking applications.

As such, YTX30L-BS batteries commonly have CCA ratings better than larger and heavier U1 and U1R batteries - on average, YTX30L-BS batteries feature a CCA rating of 280-385 Amps for lead-acid batteries and 480-720 Amps for lithium batteries.

The 10h capacity of the YTX30L-BS batteries varies around 28-30 Ah for lead-acid batteries, while the capacity of lithium batteries varies greatly and is usually in the 10-20 Ah range.

One of the very interesting features of YTX30L-BS batteries is that the negative battery terminal is set to the left, hence the 'L' as the part of the label - YTX30L-BS battery.

The following cross-reference chart lists some of the most popular lead-acid and lithium YTX30L-BS batteries, with their most important features and specifications:

As one can see, there are several YTX30L-BS AGM batteries that feature a 10h capacity of 30Ah and a CCA rating of 385 Amps, with the most popular models being Chrome YTX30L-BS, Weize YTX30L-BS, Yuasa YIX30L-BS, etc.

Although AGM batteries are generally very good all-around performers and YTX30L-BS batteries can be used for powering various other loads, not just engine starters, they are designed for high-current applications, and they should be used as such.

 

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Best Group YTX24HL-BS Battery Equivalents and Replacements

YTX24HL-BS batteries feature physical dimensions of (L x W x H) 8.0625 x 3.4375 x 6.375 inches (205 x 87 x 162 mm), 10h capacity of ~21 Ah, and CCA rating in the 260-350 Amps for AGM/Gel-Cell batteries and up to 420 Amps for the lithium batteries.

Despite having a 30-40% smaller capacity than YTX30L-BS batteries, YTX24HL-BS batteries feature CCA ratings that are very close to the CCA ratings of the YTX30L-BS batteries. YTX24HL-BS batteries are designed as 'High Performance' batteries, hence the 'H' as part of their labels - YTX24HL-BS battery.

Also, YTX24HL-BS batteries feature a negative battery terminal to the left side of the battery, hence the 'L' as part of their label - YTX24HL-BS battery.

The following cross-reference chart lists some of the most popular YTX24HL-BS batteries with their most important features and specifications:

Lithium YTX24HL-BS batteries are not yet as popular as AGM/Gel-Cell batteries - they are used in high-performance motorcycles, snowmobiles, and similar vehicles where weight savings of 10-12 pounds can lead to improved performances, justifying the price difference and lower actual capacity.

Although YTX24HL-BS batteries are smaller than YTX30L-BS and especially U1 and U1R batteries, they can often crank/start surprisingly large engines.

For lawn mowers, lawn tractors, power generators, and other similar applications, AGM and Gel-Cell batteries are the most cost-effective batteries and the recommended ones.

 

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Best Group YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS Battery Equivalents and Replacements

YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS batteries share the same physical dimension and terminal orientation ('L' - negative to the LEFT side of the battery), but the YTX20HL-BS batteries are considered as 'High-Performance' versions of the 'basic' YTX20L-BS batteries.

Physical dimensions of these batteries are (L x W x H)  6.875 x 3.4375 x 6.125 inches (175 x 87 x 155 mm).

YTX20L-BS lead-acid batteries feature a 10h capacity of 14-19 Ah, a CCA rating of 220-270 Amps, and a weight of 12.5-15.0 pounds.

YTX20HL-BS lead-acid batteries feature a similar 10h capacity of 18-19 Ah and weight of 13-15 pounds, but the CCA rating is higher and is around ~310 Amps, allowing YTX20HL-BS to crank larger engines more easily.

Lithium YTX20L-BS/YTX20HL-BS batteries are not as common as lead-acid sealed batteries, but they offer a weight savings of around 10 pounds and are able to provide stronger currents, generally in the 350-500 Amps range.

The following cross-reference chart lists some of the most popular YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS batteries with their most important features and specifications.

As one can see, many brands manufacture both YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS batteries, despite very similar performances.

YTX20L-BS batteries are designed with reliability, robustness, and vibration resistance in mind and are, as such, perhaps a better choice for lawn mowers, lawn tractors, power generators, and similar vehicles and applications.

The most popular YTX20L batteries are:

Weize YTX20L-BS High-Performance Powersports AGM Battery

Weize YTX20L-BS is a very popular SLA AGM starting/cranking YTX20L- BS battery, featuring 10h capacity of 18Ah and 270 CCA.

The battery weighs ~12.6 pounds (~5.7 kg), it is a completely sealed, spill-proof, maintenance-free battery with increased resistance to mechanical impacts and vibrations, making it one of the best choices not only for motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles, and similar vehicles but also for lawn mowers and garden tractors.

When the battery is being charged outside the vehicle, the recommended charging current is 1.8V (0.1C) - the use of an advanced AGM battery charger with temperature compensation is highly recommended.

Yuasa YUAM320BS YTX20L-BS Battery

Yuasa YUAM320BS YTX20L-BS battery is another very popular YTX20L-BS battery featuring 18Ah (10h) capacity and 270A CCA current.

The battery is Valve Regulated Lead-Acid (VRLA), sealed AGM battery, designed to be robust and reliable and to endure vibrations and mechanical impacts - use it, but don't abuse it!

When the battery is charged outside the vehicle, the recommended charging current is 1.8A (0.1C).

The battery weighs 14.85 pounds (6.73 kg).

Note: battery is delivered dry and must be activated by the user.

On the other hand, YTX20HL-BS batteries are designed with performance in mind and are, as such, a better choice for high-performance motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles, and similar.

Thanks to the advanced AGM and Gel-Cell technologies, these batteries are also very reliable and vibration-resistant.

Many manufacturers offer YTX20HL-BS batteries, but again, Weize and Yuasa stand out of the crowd thanks to very balanced designs.

 Weize YTX20HL-BS High-Performance AGM Battery

Weize YTX20HL-BS High-Performance AGM Battery, also labeled as "Weize TLM20-12", features a 10h capacity of 18Ah and a CCA value of 310 Amps, which is an excellent result for a 12.85 lbs (5.82 kg) battery.

Because of the spill-proof, maintenance-free design, good resistance to vibrations, and mechanical impacts, the Weize YTX20HL-BS battery is one of the best buys and one of the most popular YTX20HL-BS batteries on the market.

When the battery is charged using a battery charger, the recommended charging current is 0.1C (1.8A).

Weize YTX20HL-BS battery is intended for motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles, and other Powersports vehicles, making it a preferred model for lawn mowers and garden tractors as well.

Yuasa YUAM620BH YTX20HL-BS Battery

Yuasa YUAM620BH YTX20HL-BS Battery is another very popular high-performance YTX20HL-BS battery featuring 18V 10h capacity and 310 CCA Amps.

The battery is a VRLA AGM spill-proof and maintenance-free battery and can operate in all positions except upside-down.

The battery weighs 13.91 pounds (~6.3 kg) - the battery is delivered in dry condition and must be activated when it arrives.

Note: some people prefer dry batteries that must be activated, while other users don't want to do anything regarding battery acid...

 

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Best Group YTX14-BS Battery Equivalents and Replacements

YTX14-BS batteries feature physical dimensions of 5.875 x 3.4375 x 5.75 inches (150 x 87 x 146 mm) and the same with less popular YTX14L-BS batteries (negative battery terminal to the Left).

YTX14-BS and YTX14L-BS lead-acid batteries feature a 10h capacity of 12-14 Ah and a CCA rating of 190-235 Amps.

They weigh 9-11 pounds.

YTX14-BS and YTX14L-BS lithium batteries are not as common as lead-acid batteries, but they ensure weight savings of some 7-8 pounds while having a CCA rating of 300-500 Amps.

Note: there are several battery dimensions that share a very similar label, but they differ in size, including YTX14AH-BS and YTX14AHL-BS batteries, which feature physical dimensions of (L x W x H) 5.25 x 3.5 x 6.5625 inches (134 x 89 x 166 mm), ~12Ah 10h capacity and 190-235 CCA rating.

The following cross-reference chart lists some of the most popular YTX14-BS batteries with their most important features and specifications:

Lithium YTX14-BS batteries are gaining in popularity, but AGM YTX14-BS batteries are still a much more popular type.

Manufacturers of lithium starting batteries, YTX14-BS size included, often label their batteries with the 'lead-acid equivalent' capacity, although their batteries have a much smaller actual capacity.

Although actual capacity is of lesser importance for starting batteries, parasite loads may discharge smaller-capacity lithium batteries much faster than the larger lead-acid AGM and Gel-Cell batteries.

To prevent issues due to the parasite loads, some manufacturers include in their lithium batteries over-discharge protection with the Reset Button - when the parasite loads discharge the battery too low, BMS cuts off the battery from the vehicle. By pressing Reset Button, the user can activate the battery, which still has enough charge left to more or less safely crank the engine.

Note: Such a system is NOT present in all lithium starting batteries, YTX14-BS batteries included.

 

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Best Group YTX12-BS Battery Equivalents and Replacements

YTX12-BS batteries are very similar in size to YTX14-BS batteries - their physical dimensions are 5.875 x 3.5 x 5.125 inches (150 x 88 x 130 mm).

Lead-acid YTX12-BS batteries feature a 10h capacity of ~10 Ah, CCA rating in the 180-210 Amps range, and weigh 7-10 pounds.

Since YTX12-BS batteries are very popular Motorsport/Powersport batteries, many manufacturers also offer lithium YTX12-BS starting batteries which offer weight savings of 6-7 pounds, smaller capacity, but a better CCA rating of 250-500 Amps.

For high-performance and professional applications, lithium YTX12-BS batteries are highly recommended, but for residential riding lawn mowers and tractors, a good AGM or Gel-Cell YTX12-BS battery is the way to go.

The following cross-reference chart lists some of the most popular AGM, Gel-Cell, and Lithium YTX12-BS batteries with their most important features and specifications:

Although their capacity is relatively small, AGM and Gel-Cell YTX12-BS batteries are often used even in deep discharge applications, like small kayak trolling motor batteries for quick hops from one position to another, as a fish-finder battery, small inverter batteries, and similar.

Although starting AGM and Gel-Cell batteries are much more tolerant to deep discharges than wet/flooded starting batteries, they should not be used as such - a few cycles down to 50-80% DoD will not harm these batteries if they are soon after the discharge cycle recharged (preferably) using a smart AGM/Gel-Cell battery charger.

Also, be aware that a semi-discharged lead-acid battery is unable to provide as strong a starting current as a fully charged battery.

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Best Group YTX9-BS Battery Equivalents and Replacements

YTX9-BS batteries feature physical dimensions of (L x W x H) 5.875 x 3.4375 x 4.125 inches (150 x 87 x 105 mm) and are used as starting batteries for small to medium-sized motorcycles, ATVs, riding lawn mowers, power generators, and other vehicles and appliances.

Lead-acid YTX9-BS batteries feature 10h capacity in the 6-10 Ah range and are able to provide 120-180 CCA Amps. Also, they weigh 6-9 pounds, depending on the model.

While wet/flooded lead-acid YTX9-BS batteries are being phased out in favor of AGM and Gel-Cell spill-proof maintenance-free batteries, lithium YTX9-BS batteries are becoming increasingly more present on the market.

Lithium YTX9-BS batteries' typical weight is in the 2-3 pounds range, and they are able to provide 150-300 Amps for short periods of time, allowing them to easily crank/start gas and even diesel engines commonly found in small to medium motorcycles, ATVs and other Powersports vehicles and power generators.

The following cross-reference chart lists some of the most popular YTX9-BS batteries with their most important features and specifications:

For smaller lawn mowers that feature the electric start of their internal combustion engines, AGM and Gel-Cell YTX9-BS batteries are recommended models - they are reliable and durable batteries that come at rather an acceptable price.

Lithium YTX9-BS batteries may lead to some weight savings, and they can offer even stronger starting currents, but such advantages are not of great importance for lawn mowers.

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Best Group YTX5L-BS Battery Equivalents and Replacements

YTX5L-BS batteries are some of the smallest cranking/starting batteries commonly found in smaller motorcycles, power generators, entry-level ATVs, smaller outboard marine motors, etc.

Their physical dimensions are (L x W x H) 4.4375 x 2.75 x 4.125 inches (113 x 70 x 105 mm), and they are most commonly lead-acid batteries, although ultralight lithium batteries are slowly appearing in this battery size, too.

Despite their compact size, YTX5L-BS batteries are able to provide 70-130 CCA Amps, although there are manufacturers that claim even more CCA Amps.

The typical weight of AGM and Gel-Cell YTX5L-BS batteries is 3.5-4.5 pounds, while lithium YTX5L-BS batteries weigh just 1.0-1.2 pounds.

The following cross-reference chart lists some of the most popular YTX5L-BS batteries with their most important features and specifications:

Lead-acid YTX5L-BS batteries are maintenance-free, spill-proof batteries that are very resistant to vibrations and mechanical impacts and can last a long time when protected from overcharging and summer heat.

When disconnected from the vehicle, AGM and Gel-Cell YTX5L-BS batteries should be charged with smart battery chargers with dedicated AGM/Gel-Cell charging modes with charging current in the 0.5-1.0 Amps range.

Also, such battery chargers, after recharging the battery, automatically switch themselves into maintenance mode, keeping the battery fully charged over a longer period of time - highly recommended when wintering the vehicles and appliances that use YTX5L-BS batteries.

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Lawn Mower and Tractor Batteries Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some of the most common Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about lawn mower and tractor batteries and starting batteries in general.

What kind of battery do I need for my riding lawn mower?

Riding lawn mowers require small lead-acid or lithium starting batteries - exact battery size differs, so it must be checked for each lawn mower/tractor.

How long does a lawn tractor battery usually last?

A lawn tractor battery may last a few years, depending on the use and maintenance - if the lawn tractor is stored with the battery connected to the maintainer, such battery usually lasts a few years longer.

Is a riding lawn mower battery a 12-volt battery?

Most riding lawn mowers come with 12-volt electric systems, batteries included. But, just in case, check the Owner's Guide of the lawn mower that You have - some models may have 6V or 8V batteries.

How to charge a lawn tractor battery?

The lawn tractor battery is charged via an alternator connected to the lawn tractor engine. However, if the unit is not used periodically, it is a good practice to recharge the battery from time to time with a good battery charger and to store the lawn tractor with its battery connected to the battery maintainer.

Some smaller and older units don't feature onboard battery chargers, requiring users periodically to recharge them using smart battery chargers, usually in the 1-5 Amps range.

Such batteries should be recharged every 2-3 months or when cranking becomes difficult and slow.

Will a lawn mower battery start a car?

It depends on the size of the battery and the size of the car's engine. Smaller lithium starting batteries will NOT start car engines since their BMS will disconnect the battery due to the too-strong current.

Smaller lead-acid batteries may even start a car engine, but that would be really too big a load for smaller lead-acid batteries, shortening their lifetime.

Larger starting lead-acid batteries found in larger lawn mowers and tractors may start the car's engine, although they are not intended for such use - it all depends on the battery size, its condition, CCA, and the size and type (gas, diesel) of the car's engine, external temperature and similar.

Are tractor batteries the same as car batteries?

Tractor batteries and car batteries are of the same type and internal construction, but car batteries are generally larger.

P.S. Yes, Yugo 45 is also considered a car, but its engine can be started with a larger lawn mower/tractor battery easily.

Can you use a car battery to charge a lawn mower battery?

If the fully charged car battery is connected to the discharged lawn mower battery (both batteries are of the same type/chemistry), some of the car's battery charge will be transferred to the lawn mower battery.

However, initial charging currents can be rather large and may even damage the lawn mower battery.

If lawn mower/tractor battery charging is required, charge the lawn mower/tractor batteries using advanced battery chargers that monitor the battery condition and adjust the charging process according to the battery condition.

When should I replace my riding mower battery?

If the lawn mower/tractor features a battery charging system (alternator + charge controller) and when:

• the engine start becomes sluggish and slow,
• the lights are dim,
• the battery voltage is constantly around or below 12V with the engine Off,

it is time to replace the battery.

If the lawn mower/tractor doesn't feature a charging system, take the battery out, recharge it completely and check how it performs - if it shows signs of a weak battery (slow and sluggish starts, dim lights, etc.), it is time to replace the battery.

Can you put a car battery in a lawn tractor?

Car batteries are generally too large for lawn tractors and cannot fit the lawn tractor's battery compartment.

But, even if it is possible to put a car battery in a lawn tractor, don't forget that too large battery can lead to alternator failure - whenever replacing the lawn tractor/mower battery, check the documentation that came with the unit and use replacement battery as recommended by the manufacturer.

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Few Final Words

When looking for a new lawn mower replacement battery, be sure to match the old one in terms of battery type/chemistry, size, terminal orientation, and terminal type.

Both the capacity and CCA rating of the new battery should be the same or better than the capacity and CCA rating of the old battery.

When wintering your lawn mower, check its Owner's Guide regarding battery maintenance - if allowed by the lawn mower manufacturer, disconnect the battery (if there are no parasite loads, there is no need to disconnect the battery) and keep it charged using a smart battery charger/maintainer.

During the summer heat, keep the lawn mower in the shade or preferably in the air-conditioned garage/storage room.

Note: internal combustion engines should be operated only in the open, not in garages, storage sheds, or similar, regardless of how good ventilation is - internal combustion engines produce colorless and tasteless Carbon Monoxide (CO), which is a very dangerous gas for humans and animals.

Also, these batteries often look like toys, but they pack quite a strong punch!

Whatever You do, stay safe!