Safe to use a lawnmower battery?

[i386]

Just thought I'd run this by you guys...

Thinking of ditching the heavy deep cycle battery in favor of a smaller and lighter lawnmower battery to start the 33HP Evinrude, and run lights a fish finder when I get them installed. No trolling motor connected to this one.

Any reason not to do this?

 

[arks]

Re: Safe to use a lawnmower battery?

Not at all- I use a small lawn tractor battery in my 14' Lowe. 25HP electric start, nav lights, horn. Works very well and is half the weight of a group 24.

 

[tx1961whaler]

Re: Safe to use a lawnmower battery?

I have used them before with no issues. I've used the tractor battery to run the starter motor, and a deep cycle to run the shrimp lights many times.

 

[jay_merrill]

Re: Safe to use a lawnmower battery?

Assuming that your 33hp doesn't have a DC generator, it would probably work. Older OMC motors with charging capability usually have a minimum battery size specified.



???

 

[1946Zephyr]

Re: Safe to use a lawnmower battery?

Sure, it'll work. It won't hold up near as long as a marine battery.

 

[jasper60103]

Re: Safe to use a lawnmower battery?

Yea, I agree it should work. My manual states my starter draws about 30 amps no load, so no big deal. I have a big marine deep cycle as well. I extended the battery cables to the bow for balance. Btw, nice project you got going there. I like the looks of those old 33hp Evinrudes. Good luck.

 

[Outsider]

Re: Safe to use a lawnmower battery?

my starter draws about 30 amps no load

Would there be a load when attempting to start your engine?

The lawnmower battery will work, but not have much in the way of guts. And don't forget, a '69 engine probably has little battery charging capability ...

 

[Skagit Hunter]

Re: Safe to use a lawnmower battery?

I have ran one for 3 yrs. with a marine battery. It runs the bildge pump, radios, LED Nav lights only. But stays charged with the motor.
And its a Wally World battery

 

[Craig-]

Re: Safe to use a lawnmower battery?

Battery will hold up just as long as a marine battery or longer, as far as strength in construction the tractor battery is stronger than marine due to smaller size yet same guts. Storage capacity will be less, amperage will be plenty.