Battery

[sperzonkers2]

Hello all, I was working on the boat on Sunday the motor fired right up. I was looking a the battery. I only have one. It is a 24 month battery and it was new in May 07. The sticker on it is marked with that date. Should I change the battery or test it to see the charge?

Thanks!!

[Luna Sea 5]

The battery usually last 3 seasons, but since you have 1 with no back up, I would replace it and not take any chances.

[Pops Soul]

 

[sperzonkers2]

Thanks guys. Now you have me wondering if I should install a second battery. Do you normally use a cranking battery for starting and a deep cycle for the other?

Thanks!!

[Reckless]

 I recently replaced one of mine. They told me I had to replace it with the same kind. Either 2 deep cycles or 2 starter. Hopefully I was given the correct info. 

[sperzonkers2]

Thanks!!!Frankeu. My is a starting(Cranking)  battery. I'll think I will replace it as Luna 3 suggests. 

[Fishin Dude]

Buy another battery and keep this one also, 2 is always better then 1. As long as you have room you can run a 2 battery system and get yourself on a schedule of replacing only one at a time. <'((((><

[Maritime Matt]

Here is what I recommend:
Buy the biggest and best battery you can afford, especially if you only have one. If space prevails 2 is the way to go. I've had good service from Deka, Interstate and AC-Delco.

[CapBob]

A two battery system is the best one starter battery and one deep cycle.

I replace one of the batteries every year alternating them, so the oldest battery is only 2 years old and I never have a problem

[sperzonkers2]

  Thanks all!! Matt, my battery is an interstate battery Group 24 size. Are these sealed non-maintenace batteries or do you need to add water? Will a deep cycle battery start the outboard if the cranking one is dead?

Thanks!!

[Reckless]

I have 2 deep cycle. Either one will start my outboard.

[CapBob]

Deep cycles will start the engine, but take longer to recharge...the starting battery is made for that initial surge of power to start and a fast recharge

[sperzonkers2]

  Thanks Capt Bob and Frankeu!!

[rugman]

I will give it two years and it is done. Over the winter just take it out and keep it char t^ged

[IrishAyes]

You can get more than a couple of years out of a battery. HOWEVER, in the harsh salt water environment, do as Capt Bob said, replace one battery every year. Rotate your batteries and you will not need to be overly concerned about having a starting problem due to a bad battery.

The battery you take out of service can be used for any other purpose that you can find use for. I will be using my replaced battery this year on my little boat to run my depth finder.

Good luck and have a great season.