Battery Question

[Rapid Robert]

I'm new to boating & just purchased a 1990 Sylvan 20' pontoon boat with a 40 hp Evinrude motor. I find that it has a deep cycle marine battery. According to the spec sheet in the motor manual this motor has an alternator. Shouldn't the battery be a conventional auto battery? The accessories this boat has besides conventional lights is a live well and a power winch for the anchor. Is it OK to continue to use this deep cycle battery?

 

[Rocky_Road]

Re: Battery Question

I'm new to boating & just purchased a 1990 Sylvan 20' pontoon boat with a 40 hp Evinrude motor. I find that it has a deep cycle marine battery. According to the spec sheet in the motor manual this motor has an alternator. Shouldn't the battery be a conventional auto battery? The accessories this boat has besides conventional lights is a live well and a power winch for the anchor. Is it OK to continue to use this deep cycle battery?

Deep cycle batteries can be discharged, and charged, more often than a conventional starting battery.

Since marine applications usually have their batteries idle for extended periods...a deep cycle battery will give you the longest service life. A car, on the other hand, is charging it's battery almost on a daily basis.

Can you use any old car battery in your boat? Of course...but you better have it on a trickle charge, between fishing trips!

 

[HVSTRINE]

Re: Battery Question

Deep cycle batteries are meant to be used with marine/rv applications. If the battery is good you should be fine.

 

[Rapid Robert]

Re: Battery Question

Thanks guys I appreciate your quick replies.

 

[emdsapmgr]

Re: Battery Question

Since your engine has an alternator, a marine starting (car-type) battery is normally recommended. Some of the premium deep cycle batteries are rated to be used both ways, as starting or for high current draw applications. These premium ones are usually huge and expensive. Since you do have strong current needs with the anchorwinch and livewell, the prior owner has probably got the right battery in the boat for your needs. If the current battery works-use it till it quits, then replace it with a premium deep cycle that is rated to go both ways.