Replacement batteries

We run 8 Northstar AGM batteries which are advertised as being able to deep cycle, also run as starters.
4 1150CCA each for starter, 4 for electric APU.

AGM are less susceptible to temperature changes & are more consistent in overall discharge somewhat like the comparison between NiCad/NiMH and the newer Lithium Ion/Polymer.

Had 2 of the starters get the unique AGM rotten egg smell a couple weeks ago & changed out; funny never had any issues until it went to Freightliner for a recall and overhead...

If you stick with traditional flooded, maybe you can insulate wrap to prevent extreme temp swings and provide more consistent performance, also helps in winter time to have your diesel heater tied in with your truck coolant so you can keep the entire block warm & ease starting.

 

There is no such thing as a battery that will serve multiple purposes with equal efficiency.
An SLI (Starting,lights, ignition)flooded cell battery, the most common configuration in class 8 trucks, case size 31 with 800-1000 cca(cold cranking amps) does what it is intended to do. Start the truck until the alternator can provide the electricity for the other loads. What they don't do well is low amperage drains(Hotel loads) while the truck is off, drivers using various electrical devices for a period of time.
AGM(absorbed glass mat) batteries can be configured for SLI purposes, or for deep cycle or some combination of both. They cost at least twice as much. The combo deep cycle/SLI types don't do either very well, and in my experience were not worth the extra expense.
Flooded cell and AGM batteries have 2 different sets of charging requirements, and most truck alternators are set up for flooded cell, by far the most common battery in use. If deep cycle AGM types are used they have to be isolated and charged with a different controller. All possible of course, but more complicated.

 

Lead acid batteries work just fine. And have been around forever.

Temps don't bother them. When fully charged their freeze point is minus 60. Google it.

Today's lead batteries seem to be much better quality then yesterday's also. It's been years since I had to buy a battery for my car. And my last 2 were owned for 6 years each. Sold them both with the same battery they came with.

19 years driving and I've only had ONE company that actually had power to plug the trucks in. But the coldest we get is zero degrees. Maybe a few spots that would see single negatives.

 

Duracell AGM batteries from SAM'S CLUB will work much better then OEM. I do OTR and use a lot hotel loads. Fridge, computer, TV, coffee maker. Two years warranty with no question replacement.

 

I had Tech replace one of 4 batteries do to one was smoking and got hot after it was replaced tech also tested all other batteries and they passed after few days I noticed my bunker heater showing warning every 10-30 min low voltage 12.9 to 12.7 and truck start little bit harder then before is it because new battery with old battery don't mix and I should of just replaced all 4