Time for new batteries

[C_Spray]

I've had good luck with Deka (East Penn Mfg.) combination deep-cycle/cranking Group 31's. This is the brand of batteries Formula usually supplies from the factory.

I use one for the port engine and two for the house bank/starboard engine. They tolerate discharging to low voltages like a deep-cycle, but still provide LOTS of cranking amps. Each system runs independently off of that particular engine's alternator, but can be combined if need be. Using all the same spec batteries keeps life simple from the charging standpoint as well - you can use the same settings on all the alternators and battery charger(s).

Remember, if you convert from flooded to AGM batteries, you'll have to re-adjust everything. AGM's charge at over 14 volts....

 

[4mulafastech]

+1 on Deka. http://www.eastpenn-deka.com/default.aspx?pageid=468

I'm on my 4th season with two wet cell Deka's. P/N 24M7 is for starting the starboard engine (1000 MCA @ 32°F). The other battery is a 1231MF which is a starting/deep cycle battery with 1260 MCA. It runs all the accessories and stereo. I have the upgraded factory stereo which includes a good size amp. Never had any issues and the only time I put a charger on them is a couple times during the winter. I remove them from the boat and keep them in the basement.

 

[Tommy Gun]

I have also had a problem with a Die Hard shorting a cell and have not been overly impressed with the Optimas. I have two Trojan AGM's and they have been excellent so far (2 years).

Deka has been recommended to me in the past along with Odyssy.

 

[Warlock28SXT]

I don't have anything bad to say about my blue tops considering my lack of maint on them. With mine appearing to have given up, I saw the write up about waking them up and figured it was worth a shot. Hell I'd rather put the $400+ in the tank. We'll see though I'm on about hour 36 of the wake up then I'm going to have them load tested and see what's up.............

 

[Jassman]

Always had good luck with Interstate marine batteries (wet). Mine are 4 seasons old so time for new ones. I want to move to a gel or AGM battery. Odessey seems to have the best reputation but they are also the most expensive. I seem to read more bad things than good about Optima. Anyone using a lesser known gel or AGM that has had good luck with them at a reasonable price?

Thanks.

Sandy's got some for ya:26:

 

[schnydo]

how does that battery get charged? Thanks for the info on the agm's at cabellas.

cabellas 3 years love them

 

[jeffgrice]

I had been using VITA PLATE. Not sure if they are still in business (Ohio Company). I would get 6 years on them.

Couldn't find them in Michigan so I switch to Excide. Get 5-6 years from them.

Jeff

 

[OldSchool]

I've got group 31's in my TopGun. I knew that they were old, so I decided to replace them this year. They were BoatUS "Sea-Worthy" batteries. They were still working fine, but figured it was cheap insurance to go ahead and swap them out. I replaced them with some Imterstate Marine 31's. When I pulled the old batteries out, I was shocked to see the "born-on" sticker on both of them that said March 99. Ten years old!!!

I hope that I have such good luck with the new ones!!!

 

[Warlock28SXT]

After follwing the instruction from the web page both my batteries are ok. I had them both load tested. I don't know yet how long they will hold the charge like was mentioned, but I'll let you know.

 

[dykstra]

Interstates have worked fine for me. I love em'.

 

[rschap1]

Ebay AGM batts...

Anyone ever try these??

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/AGM-...0371452QQptZBoatQ5fPartsQ5fAccessoriesQ5fGear

 

[Griff]

Anyone ever try these??

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/AGM-...0371452QQptZBoatQ5fPartsQ5fAccessoriesQ5fGear

The price isn't that great when you include the shipping. Cabellas was cheaper 2 weeks ago. I would want somewhere I can take the battery if it goes bad