Brief Summary
This video is a comprehensive review of various jump starters, comparing their performance in different tests such as jump-starting a V6 engine, inflating a tire, jump-starting a diesel engine, and measuring light brightness and battery capacity. The tests reveal significant differences in performance and features among the jump starters, highlighting the importance of considering specific needs and budget when choosing a jump starter. The NOCO GBX155, Gulu, and Yabber Auto emerge as top performers in different categories.
- NOCO GBX155: Best overall performance, especially for diesel engines.
- Gulu: Excellent value for its high quality and performance, ideal if a tire inflator isn't needed.
- Yabber Auto: Top pick for jump starters with a built-in tire inflator, offering the fastest inflation and good overall performance.
Introduction to Jump Starter Review
The reviewer introduces a comparison of jump starters, ranging from a $50 model to a $300 Milwaukee, to determine if the more expensive options are worth the investment. The tests include jump-starting a V6 engine, tire inflation speed, jump-starting a diesel engine, and power output. The reviewer also questions the value of using a DeWalt battery with jumper cables as a cheaper alternative, noting the absence of safety features in such a setup.
V6 Engine Jump Start Test
The initial test involves jump-starting an old Ford Ranger with a completely dead V6 engine. The DeWalt battery-powered jumper cables fail to provide enough current to start the engine. Several jump starters are tested, including Charmele, Windfliv, and Dani brands, all claiming high cranking amps but struggling with the dead battery. The Neo brand performs the best initially due to its boost button, while the Yabber Auto excels, making the process look easy and lasting over 11 seconds.
Performance of Mid-Range Jump Starters
The test continues with jump starters from Traura, Gulu, and FTO. The Gulu stands out with its fast engine turnover due to its boost feature. The FTO initially shows promise with its high cranking amps claim but quickly overheats and emits smoke. The Wolf Box performs well, similar to the Gulu, setting the stage for testing with a big block engine.
Milwaukee and NOCO Jump Starter Performance
The Milwaukee Hot Shot jump starter, a super capacitor that uses an 18V Milwaukee battery, requires a minute to charge and gives up early in the test. The NOCO GBX155 delivers the most current and performs impressively, making the engine start look easy. Subjective assessment places NOCO on top, followed by Gulu and Wolf Box tied for second place.
Tire Inflator Performance Comparison
The tire inflators of the jump starters are compared by inflating a 15-inch car tire. The Windfliv is loud and generates significant heat. The Yesman is slightly quieter with an easy-to-read display but also produces high heat. The Ducani is the fastest among the initial tests. The Yabber Auto is the loudest but also the fastest and coolest pump. The Tracure runs the coolest, while the Neo is the slowest. The Yabber Auto is the fastest overall, followed by Ducani and Tracure.
Jump Starting a Small Block V8 Engine
The jump starters are tested on a Chevrolet small block 350 engine with a partially charged battery. Most jump starters successfully start the engine on all three attempts. The Yesman, Colt Goo, Neo, Yabber, Gulu, and Wolf Box perform exceptionally well. The Milwaukee, being a super capacitor, also starts the engine successfully. The NOCO stands out, making the process very easy.
Jump Starting a Big Block V8 Engine
The jump starters are then tested on a Farmabago with a 454 big block V8 engine. The Charmele and Wind Flip struggle, while the Dani performs slightly better. The Yesman performs the best initially, lasting over 7 seconds. The Yabber Auto continues to impress with a high engine turnover speed lasting over 10 seconds. The Gulu and Wolf Box also perform well, while the Milwaukee fades quickly. The NOCO is the most powerful, easily lasting over 10 seconds.
Jump Starting a Diesel Engine
The jump starters are tested on a Dodge Ram 2500 with a diesel engine. The Yesman, Colt Goo, and Milwaukee fail to start the engine. The Yabber Auto successfully starts the diesel engine three times. The Fau also manages to start the engine three times, while the Gulu and Wolf Box have safety features that kick in, preventing full potential. The NOCO cranks the diesel engine with the power of two fully charged car batteries. Only Yabber Auto, Fau and NOCO are able to jump start the diesel engine three times back to back.
Light Brightness and Battery Bank Performance
The brightness of the jump starter lights is measured, with the Milwaukee having the brightest light, followed by Neo and NOCO. The jump starters are also tested as battery banks. The Charmele struggles, while the Windflip and Ducani perform slightly better. The Yabber Auto has the highest peak watts, while the Gulu has the most capacity. The NOCO also performs well.
Bench Testing Cranking Amps
The jump starters are bench-tested to measure cranking amps. The Charmele, Wind Flip, and Dani have lower outputs. The Yesman, Colt Goo, and Neo perform better. The Yabber Auto, Tracure, and Gulu show higher outputs. The Wolf Box takes the lead, while the Milwaukee runs out of steam early. The NOCO outperforms the competition with significantly higher amps and watts.
Final Results and Recommendations
The NOCO comes out on top with the best average finish, performing well in every category and is recommended for diesel engines despite its high price. The Gulu finishes in second place and is a top pick for those not needing a diesel jump starter or tire inflator. The Yabber Auto is the best pick for those wanting a jump starter with a built-in tire inflator. The reviewer notes the significant improvement in jump starters compared to those tested five years prior and emphasizes the importance of having one for emergencies.
