It will probably work for simple charging needs. Measure the output with a meter at no load. Then measure the battery alone, then measure the battery with the charger connected and operating.
If the 1st measurement is anything under 16 volts you should be ok, proceed to the 2nd & third test.
You should see a slight increase in the voltage between the 2nd and 3rd measurements. This reflects power going into the battery.
If the third measurement is much over 14v you might not want to continue using it due to insufficient regulation.
You should babysit this thing the first couple of times you use it, just until you're sure it's going to be fine. You don't want to boil the electrolyte unattended etc.
Also make sure you have adequate ventilation- the battery will emit a very small amount of highly flammable hydrogen during the charge. No big deal in the open, but in a confined space this can be an issue if it accumulates.
Extended usage with an improvised charger can contribute to sulfation in the batteries, but for the occasional top-up you're good.
If the 1st measurement is anything under 16 volts you should be ok, proceed to the 2nd & third test.
You should see a slight increase in the voltage between the 2nd and 3rd measurements. This reflects power going into the battery.
If the third measurement is much over 14v you might not want to continue using it due to insufficient regulation.
You should babysit this thing the first couple of times you use it, just until you're sure it's going to be fine. You don't want to boil the electrolyte unattended etc.
Also make sure you have adequate ventilation- the battery will emit a very small amount of highly flammable hydrogen during the charge. No big deal in the open, but in a confined space this can be an issue if it accumulates.
Extended usage with an improvised charger can contribute to sulfation in the batteries, but for the occasional top-up you're good.
