New Batteries Required

[Scottie]

Hello,
I was wondering what type of batteries would be best to purchase to replace my existing weak / dead batteries? The boat came with 2 starting batteries. I was thinking of replacing them with 2 deep cycle batteries as I don't think that my Honda 50 would really require a starting battery. Any thoughts?

I am having a bit of a problem finding new batteries that match the size of my existing batteries. The existing batteries are about L 10 x W 6.75 x H 8 inches. Have any of you run into this battery size issue? I was hoping to just bolt the new ones in without having to do any mods.

Cheers,
Jeff

[paj637]

I replaced mine with two Group 24 deep cycle marine batteries a few years ago and have no problems with starting my Honda 50. No other issues to report. Going to LED lights in the cabin helps out alot.

[NiceAft]

Last Winter I replaced my batteries with AGM's.

This subject has been posted before, so with tedious investigating time, you could see what was discussed. You may wish to start here? http://macgregorsailors.com/forum/viewt ... ttery+type


Ray

[opie]

paj637 is right-on. For our smallish boats, the group 24 is the cheapest and works great. Two group 24 deep cells. If you do all the research your brain will fry with all the choices you have and what's best, etc. The size should work. See this link

[c130king]

2 x Group 24 fit easily in the battery well. I have Interstate Group 24 Deep Cycle...$74 each if I remember correctly.

Cheers,
Jim

[Scottie]

Thanks for the input guys. Much appreciated.
Jeff

[Russ]

I was thinking of replacing them with 2 deep cycle batteries as I don't think that my Honda 50 would really require a starting battery.

Yup. A motorcycle battery would start our motors. So go with a deep cycle battery and get the benefits of storage. If you had 2 450 CU V8s to start, then go with a starting battery.

[NiceAft]

There may be more to it than just the ability to start your engines.

by Hamin' X » Tue Oct 05, 2010 12:07 am

"I prefer AGM type batteries, due to low internal resistance, low self discharge rate, ability to regularly cycle to as low as 20%, no gas discharge, extended life and no spill." " You won't find these at the discount stores and they aren't cheap. With their low internal resistance, you can use them as a starting battery as well."

[opie]

Niceaft,
You quoted it above, "they aren't cheap." Most of us here are cheap, cheap, cheap......

[Catigale]

Ive actually been on the Cape the last three years with one good and one marginal battery. I isolate the good one for starting and run lights and charge phones with the other for the week long trips. Since I got my Ipad, I dont use the computer anymore of course - the Ipad battery lasts the whole week since I turn it on for an hour to check email each evening.

[yukonbob]

Go Agm. Didn't adjust the auto combiner for the gels this spring and the house lasted for nearly ten days with no charging. Killed it completely paralleled it to get it charging again and no problem. Got mine at cosco for 135 a piece. No filling or checking and if they tip upside down you can leave them like that if you feel so inclined