Boat Battery options

[suckerfish]

I am wondering what type of battery you all use on your boats. Last fall I opted to replace my batterys(2). I went to my local Les Schwabs and told them what I needed. I asked them to recommend a good battery to use as replacments. Well, off I go with two 24 group deep cycle batteries. I called them back and explained that I was using these batteries as starting batteries and wasn't going to run an electric motor. Well, they said they would be fine. I was having some starting issues with my boat so I zip down to Schwabs and ask them to test and charge my batteries. After checking the first battery the guy tells me it is dead. We check the other and the same thing. All but one of the cells are toast. Places both batteries on the chargers and retests. Both batteries are no good. So I leave with two replacment batteries. I still question wether the batteries are a good choice, do to the nature of their use. The old batteries were only 12.5 months old. I am certain that these replacment batteries will suffer the same fate as the last.

What kind of batteries do you guys run in your boat. I don't feel the need to distroy another battery or two. Or even worse, suffer from total battery failer when I need to fire the big motor to aviod trouble.



Thanks

suckerfish

[Herring Impaired]

How often are you using your boat?

Do you use a trickle/maintenance charger when not in use?

[FishinMission]

Can't confirm it..but I've had mechanic's tell me Schwab batteries are no good (Could also be they want me to buy one of THEIRS).

****** got me onto an Optimax (Is that the right name??)....I like it so far...but if you leave something on..even an Optimax will go flat on you.

Mark

[KingCap]

I had the same question when I bought my boat . What I ended up getting were two Odyssey dry cell batteries. These are small in size and can be mounted at any angle , even upside down.They also weigh considerably less than conventional batteries. The only drawback is they are a little expensive but they are supposed to have a longer lifespan so it works out about the same

[Beer Waggin]

Here's some good info http://www.yachtsurvey.com/batteries.htm

Also, google Interstate Batteries. They have a very good web site with lots of info.

I always used regular car/truck batteries in my sled with the V8 that had good alternator output.
On my small sled with no alternator on the outboard I've always used deep cycles. I charge my starting battery once a year. The spare battery gets used only during duck season with a spot light attached so it get's trickle charged after every use.

Forgot what the rules are for direct links. Do a search. Optima Marine Battery. Self contained, have not had to touch mine or charge it in five years. Designed to take the boat pounding as well.

[KChookem]

Some good info in above replies, and you can also check the West Marine "Advisors" at West Marine Advisors . You can get the pros and cons of various battery types, as well as a host of other electrical/battery info.

[garyk]

Also, check the Ifish archives, both here and on the SaltyDog forum. Batteries, their selection and maintainance are always a popular topic and over the years there's been some very helpful threads.

[Reelentless]

Like ****** said, Optimas seem to hold up well. They are spendy though.