[Yaesu] FT-530 Battery Source/Info?

[Brian P. Mileshosky]

Hi All,

I own both the FT-530 HT and its little brother, the FT-416, which both use
the same battery packs.  All of my packs have lost their charge capacity
completely, and I'm wanting to replace them.

I know there are many after-market battery companies out there -- MAHA, NiCd
Lady, etc.  I have no experience with any of them, but it looks like I will
have to if I want to get new packs.  Who should I go through?  My desires
include a high-quality battery that will take care of me for as long as
possible, and a battery pack that actually fits when I slide it on/off the
radio.  Do any of you have recommendations based on actual experience?  If
so, please share!

On another hand, I can always crack the packs I already own and replace the
batteries within.  I have never done this before, and some info would be
appreciated in that regard.  But then comes the same desire -- a
high-quality set of replacement batteries that will take care of me for as
long as possible.  Also, do companies do this, or do I crack the cases
myself?  How can I go about doing that carefully?

I like NiMH batteries because of their lack of memory and ability to charge
anytime.  Will I need new chargers for these batteries, or will the "stock"
FNB-25 and FNB-27 charger suffice? Any help with all of this would be
appreciated!

73,
Brian, N5ZGT
Albuquerque, NM

Amateur Radio Station N5ZGT - N5ZGT PBBS, 145.01 MHz
ARRL Life Member, NorCal #1700, QRP-L #580, AK/QRP #125
Boy Scouts of America - Eagle Scout - ASM, Troop 85
Vigil Honor Member, O.A. Lodge 66 Yah-Tah-Hey-Si-Kess
Please visit my site at http://www.unm.edu/~brianm