Tractors typically use SLI (Starting, Lighting, Ignition) lead-acid batteries, but the specific type may vary depending on usage and working conditions. Below are the main types and selection recommendations.

---

1. Common Tractor Battery Types

(1) Flooded Lead-Acid Battery

✅ Features:

• Low cost, simple maintenance, suitable for traditional tractors.

• Requires periodic electrolyte checks (distilled water refills).

• Moderate cold-cranking performance (may struggle below -20°C).

❌ Disadvantages:

• Prone to leakage, must be installed upright, poor vibration resistance.

• Shorter lifespan (2–4 years).

Best for: Older agricultural tractors, short-duration operations.

---

(2) Maintenance-Free Battery (Sealed Lead-Acid)

✅ Features:

• Sealed design, no refilling needed, leak-proof and corrosion-resistant.

• Better vibration resistance, suitable for rough terrain.

• Longer lifespan than flooded batteries (3–5 years).

❌ Disadvantages:

• Slightly more expensive, still limited in extreme cold.

Best for: Modern small/medium tractors, orchard/farm work.

---

(3) AGM Battery (Absorbent Glass Mat)

✅ Features:

• Fiberglass mat absorbs electrolyte, excellent vibration resistance.

• Superior cold-cranking performance (works down to -30°C).

• Good deep-cycle capability, ideal for frequent starts.

❌ Disadvantages:

• Higher cost (2–3× more than standard batteries).

Best for:

• Large tractors (e.g., John Deere, Case IH high-end models).

• Cold climates (e.g., Northern Europe, Canada).

---

(4) Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄) Battery

✅ Features:

• Ultra-long lifespan (8–10 years), lightweight (1/3 the weight of lead-acid).

• Fast charging, excellent low-temperature performance (-40°C operation).

❌ Disadvantages:

• Expensive (~5× the cost of lead-acid).

• Requires a battery management system (BMS), increasing retrofit costs.

Best for:

• Electric or hybrid tractors.

• Weight-sensitive applications (e.g., crop sprayer carriers).

---

2. Key Selection Parameters

---

3. Maintenance & Tips

1. Regular Checks:

   • For flooded batteries, check electrolyte monthly (top up with distilled water if low).

   • Clean terminals (apply petroleum jelly to prevent corrosion).

2. Long-Term Storage:

   • Disconnect the negative terminal to prevent discharge.

   • Recharge every 1–2 months (critical for AGM/lithium).

3. Charging:

   • Use a smart charger to avoid overcharging (AGM/lithium need special modes).

---

4. Recommended Brands

• Budget: Fengfan, Camel (cost-effective Chinese brands).

• Premium: VARTA, Exide (for high-end agricultural machinery).

• Lithium: BYD, CATL (custom solutions).

---

Conclusion

• Standard Tractors: Maintenance-free lead-acid (e.g., 60Ah–100Ah).

• Large Tractors/Cold Regions: AGM preferred (e.g., 100Ah+, CCA ≥800A).

• Future Trend: Lithium batteries will gradually replace lead-acid but remain costly.

Choosing the right battery reduces starting issues and extends tractor life!