Choosing a Battery

[jbrust]

Hey guys, i was wondering what i should look for in a new marine battery. Should i look for Amp Hours, Reserve Capacity, what, all i need it for is running my trolling motor all day, and how do i know what type of series it is? I see a lot of numbers but how can i identify the series, i was told to use a 27 or 31? thanks guys

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Choosing a Battery

Series designates the physical size of the battery. But don't use that as a guide for power. That merely indicates how much space the battery takes. The capacity of the battery can vary greatly so get the largest capacity (AH) that will fit in the space you have available. You can't have too much battery -- only too little. For a trolling motor you want a deep cycle, not a starting or combination starting/deep cycle.

 

[Boatist]

Re: Choosing a Battery

I agree with upinsmoke. Get a good quality DEEP Cycle battery. Look for RESERVE CAPACITY or AMP HOURS. Do not worry about cranking amps.<br /><br />A lot depends on the size of your boat and type of trolling motor you have as to how long the battery will last. I fish with a buddy on his 19 foot fiberglass bass boat. Most days we take one group 27 battery and fish from 700 to about 1400 and the battery does fine. Were using trolling motor to work shore line and structure not just striaght trolling. However on days when the wind blows hard the battery may get very weak by 1300.<br /><br />When we fish a Tournament from first safe light to about 1300 we always take two group 27 batteries. At the first sign of any weakness we move to the other battery.<br /><br />I do not like two batteries wired in Parallel because they just do not last as long. 4 to 5 years max and they must be exact same age and type.<br /><br />Always fully recharge your batteries as soon as possible. When batteries discharge more than 50 percent damage begins and the longer you wait to recharge the more damage is done.

 

[jbrust]

Re: Choosing a Battery

Thanks guys, I will find the battery with the most reserve capacity, or Amp Hours that i can find for my space. Much appreciated.