Two Batteries

[Fishhooker]

I am thinking of another boat project.
2004 19 ft Alumaweld Stryker.

I am going to get the between console storage box that fit just below the walk through windshield.
Remove the rear group 24 battery and add 2 sealed batteries into this box.
Add a perko switch and run battery cables to the rear.

I have a 2005 75 Merc and a 2005 9.9 Merc kicker.
GPS, F/F, VHF, Elec downriggers and elec windshield wiper.

My questions are can I stay with group 24 size batteries or move to the next group size larger?
What size of battery cable should I use. 4 ga, 6ga.?

Any other input from anyone that has done this is appreciated.

[shaggy357]

I have a little Silverliner with 140 i/o. I have the group 27 batteries in mine. I run motor so it charges both batteries. One battery runs the electronics. The other battery is to start the engine. I have a metering switch to install (when I get a round tuit) that will tell me charge level of each battery. Your plan sounds really good. Only thought is running the cable to back of boat, and having jumpers long enough just in case you do have to jump start another boat.

Diamond plate aluminum box with Perko switch on starboard side would look real nice there. Run cables out the back of box and then to starboard side. Might be able to route right along with your motor control cables. I think you have a great idea. Maybe I should move my batteries up front.....hmmm...


Steve :cool:

[Mofish]

Don't waste you money on group 27 and the added weight, if you don't have a cummngs in your boat you don't need the larger battery.

When buying a battery make sure you look at CCA and Hours amp on the battery. The optima batterys are the best on the market you can run them down to nothing and they will charge back to full load. They are a very forgiving battery.

You will get what you pay for with the optima.

Bigger is not always better. :twocents:

Make sure you always up size the cable for added load.
Cantact ABE in Clackamas and they can suggest the correct cable size.

[timinthegorge]

I'm on year 4 of an optima blue top, and it's still running strong. I've heard and read about batteries alot. Hard to argue with performance. What Mofish said.... :cheers: