Johnson Controls Inc. manufactures the Everstart battery specifically for Wal-Mart Stores Inc. Johnson Controls offers batteries for autos, marine engines and even lawn equipment. The U1R-7 is a lawn and garden battery geared specifically for lawn tractors and riding lawn mowers. The specifications for the battery include the dimensions, warranty and maintenance.
The U1R-7 is smaller battery able to fit beneath the seat or in the engine of most gas-powered lawn tractors or mowers. The unit stands 6.5 inches tall, 7.5 inches wide and 5 inches deep. The majority of Everstart lawn mower batteries have the same dimensions. The main differences is that the positive terminal sits on top of the front right side of the unit as you look at it from the front. The battery is a 12-volt battery that holds 275 cranking amps with 230 cold-cranking amps. The cold-cranking amps are what determines the battery's ability to cold-start a vehicle.
Walmart used to offer a 90-day free replacement warranty with a prorated period of one year on all lawn mower and motorcycle batteries. The majority of lawn mower batteries last for one to two years without issue, according to Walmart personnel. The life span of the battery pushes it beyond the warranty period. As of November 2010, the company no longer offers a warranty on the lawn mower or motorcycle batteries but it does offer free testing and charging at every Walmart location that houses a Tire and Lube Express (TLE).
All batteries need maintenance. The U1R-7 is boasted as maintenance-free, which simply means you do not have to add acid or water. You can add dionized or distilled water into the battery compartment if the cells are showing low on acid to prolong the life of the battery. However, adding fluid to the battery will begin to reduce the quality of charge maintained by the battery. You should, instead, store the battery in a clean, dry environment. Routinely charge the battery with a trickle charger available from any auto parts retailer. Do not leave the battery in the vehicle when the vehicle will be stored for prolonged periods of time. Clean the terminals with a wire brush whenever corrosion is present. Make sure that all terminals are connected tightly during vehicle operation to ensure proper charging of the battery while the vehicle is in use.
