YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS Batteries Equivalents and Replacements

YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS batteries are very similar starting batteries commonly used as a PowerSport battery, motorcycle battery, and for all applications that require a relatively compact battery that is able to crank small to medium size gas and diesel engines.

YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS share many features and are, in most cases, interchangeable. But, it is good to know their performances and differences.

YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS Batteries Features, Specifications, and Differences

YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS batteries feature the same physical dimensions of (L x W x H) 6.875 x 3.4375 x 6.125 inches (175 x 87 x 155 mm) with the negative terminal of the battery being on the left side - hence the 'L' part of their labels: YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS batteries.

The main difference between YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS batteries is in their cranking performances - YTX20HL-BS battery is considered as 'High Performance' battery hence the 'H' part of its label: YTX20HL-BS battery.

On average, YTX20L-BS lead-acid batteries feature a CCA rating of ~270 Amps, while YTX20HL-BS lead-acid batteries feature a CCA rating of 310 Amps.

For most applications, this difference of ~40 Amps is not that important, but for high-end motorcycles and similar vehicles, it can play an important role.

The following comparison chart lists some of the most popular lead-acid and lithium YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS batteries:

Lead-acid YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS batteries weigh around 13 to 18 pounds (~6 to 8 kg) and feature a 10h capacity of ~18 Ah.

But they differ in cranking amps, ~270 vs 320 Amps.

Note: most popular lead-acid YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS batteries are AGM batteries with Gel-Cell also being present. Wet/flooded YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS batteries are still in use, but they are being replaced with AGM batteries since they are spill-proof maintenance-free batteries.

Lithium YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS batteries are not as common as lead-acid batteries, but they weigh just 3-5 pounds (~1.36 - 2.27 kg) and are able to provide 350-500 starting Amps.

As such, lithium YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS batteries are often being used in applications where the saving of 10-15 pounds justifies the price difference.

Note: lithium batteries are commonly based on the very safe Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) chemistry, combined with the built-in Battery Management System (BMS) that monitors the battery parameters and protect it from overcharge, over-discharge, high and low temperatures, short circuit, reverse polarity, high charging and discharging currents, etc. Nonetheless, both lead-acid and lithium YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS batteries are able to deliver strong currents and as such, they should be used as instructed by their manufacturers - they are not toys!

How to Charge YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS Batteries?

When the YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS batteries are connected to the electric system of a vehicle, boat, tractor, generator, or some similar unit that features an internal combustion engine with the alternator, let that alternator keep the battery charged.

However, if there is a need to recharge AGM lead-acid batteries while being disconnected from their vehicles/units, it is recommended to use an intelligent 12V 2 Amps AGM battery charger.

Such battery chargers analyze the battery first and then charge it according to the battery and environmental condition. And when the charging is done, such battery chargers automatically switch from the charging to maintenance mode, keeping the battery fully charged over a longer period of time.

Lithium YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS batteries should be charged ONLY with dedicated lithium battery chargers or with the AGM battery chargers that feature dedicated lithium battery charging mode. Lithium batteries are charged using a charging algorithm that differs from the AGM battery charging algorithm - this is the so-called CC/CV (Constant Current/Constant Voltage) charging algorithm.

What Kills YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS Batteries?

YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS batteries are tough and durable batteries that can last for years to come - they are designed to resist vibrations and mechanical impacts, but they do have their limits.

Also, high temperatures during summer heat can increase their self-discharge rate and shorten their operating life - if possible, during summer, keep your vehicles in shade or in air-conditioned garages.

During winter their self-discharge rate is very low, but their cranking ability is decreased - when wintering them, if possible, take them out of your vehicle and connect them to a good battery charger/maintainer and keep them in a well-ventilated area at room temperature.

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Long Story Short: YTX20L-BS and YTX20HL-BS batteries are able to crank surprisingly large engines, considering their size, and are commonly used in motorcycles, smaller boats, ATVs, power generators, snowmobiles, tractors, light industrial applications, and similar.

When looking for a new YTX20L-BS or YTX20HL-BS battery, go for the most popular models from the most reputable brands - these batteries have been already tried and tested in countless real-life applications by numerous users ... and generally, they passed with flying colors ...

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