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batteries dead, recommendations?

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karentc
1st Mate

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USA
68 Posts

Initially Posted - 07/26/2004 : 15:46:41

Hi!
My two marine batteries will not hold a charge this year...
Anyone happy with their batteries? I was told by a friend who sells them that gel batteries don't last and my two series 27 gels only lasted two years. My setup is this: I use one battery for the outboard (Honda 8 electric start) starter, one battery for rest of the stuff, they both have individual chargers but they also have a line connecting them, and the whole thing is hooked up to one of those Perko switches (1-2-all-off). Also I keep Moondance at the slip with shore power on. Any suggestions? Thanks so much!
(Obviously not an electrician!!!)
Karen Christensen
1986 Catalina C-25 Moondance
Traverse City MI

Karen Christensen
Moondance, #5465 1986 C-25, SR, FK, Honda 8
Traverse City, Michigan

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Stu Jackson C34
Admiral

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844 Posts

Response Posted - 07/26/2004 : 17:16:15

Karen

The longevity of your batteries is directly proportional to the quality of the charger you have installed. A good charger, with a true three stage charging regimen will extend the life your batteries. The only one we (C34s) have found that met the criteria is the Truecharge by Xantrex. Much information about batteries and charging can be found at the West Marine website, Advisors, under electrical.

Stu

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matsche
Captain

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USA
280 Posts

Response Posted - 07/26/2004 : 18:40:29

Karen:

I use two regular deep cycle marine batteries (about $50-$60 each). They're going on their 4th year with no problems. Like Stu, I use a truecharge designed for dual batteries. Mine's a 10amp. I keep them in the boat and charged year around since NC's winters aren't that bad. I see that you hail from MI, so I'm guessing that maybe the winter's are killing your batteries. YOu need to keep them warm (above freezing) and charged during the those months. Also, it's not necessary to dedicate one battery as a starting battery for a small outboard. Your Honda won't be that demanding!

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karentc
1st Mate

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USA
68 Posts

Response Posted - 07/27/2004 : 08:30:39

Stu,
Thanks for the info- I just checked into the Xantrex chargers, there seem to be two types of 10 amp ones- which one are you using? Also, any ideas on where to get a good price comparison as they seem to be a leetle beet expensive!!! I do keep my batteries warm and topped off and funny enough they did start my motor this spring when we splashed, (which took quite a bit of time) but they seem to be dying on the boat... I guess new batteries will tell me if this is just an old battery problem or if there is a problem in my electrical system. Again thanks for the info!
Karen :)

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ClamBeach
Master Marine Consultant

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3072 Posts

Response Posted - 07/27/2004 : 10:07:41

I have kept decent quality flooded cell batteries going nicely for 8 to 10 years... using a simple $20 'smart' charger to keep them topped up.

There have been other reports that I've read regarding the early demise of 'new technology' batteries, especially in hot weather.

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Bill Holcomb
Admiral

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USA
769 Posts

Response Posted - 07/28/2004 : 11:37:54

Hi Karen,

Have you tested the batteries with a hydrometer? It is possible that the batteries are fine - but that there is enough corrosion on the terminals of your circuits to make it seem that the batteries are dying.

Are you still using gel cell's? If so, make sure that you are charging at 14.2V. If you are charging at the higher voltage needed by wet cell batteries, you will damage the gel cell.

If you are charging at the correct voltage and the batteries are loosing their charge, my guess is that you have a short in a circuit that is constantly discharging the batteries.

Finally, you might take a look at one (or all) of the following books:
"The 12-Volt Bible for Boats" by Miner Brotherton
"Boatowner's Illustrated Handbook of Wiring" by Charlie Wing
"Managing 12 Volts, 2nd Ed" by John Payne
All three have lots of great info that is fairly easy to read and understand.

Bill Holcomb - C25 Snickerdoodle #4839

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jheard
1st Mate

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USA
49 Posts

Response Posted - 08/02/2004 : 13:45:33

It is recommended you get a multi-step charger which does a bulk charge, then changes to trickle charge. Batteries usually last as long as the warranty. If they die before the warranty period, you may be able to return them. If they died prematurely, it may because you are running them completely down too many times. It is bad to completely run them down. I have heard batteries can only be completely run down about 20 times and will then die.

It could also be your charger. Take them to a gas station and have them see if the batteries hold a charge.

I bought my marine deep cycle wet batteries at Costco if you have one in your area.

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IndyJim
Navigator

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USA
130 Posts

Response Posted - 08/02/2004 : 23:30:08

Karen,
My two deep cycle batteries needed replaced this year (wouldn't hold a decent charge) and I shopped quite a bit and asked a lot of questions. I bought OPTIMA deep cycle batteries and I've never been more satisfied. They hold a full charge longer, lighter weight, a little different design and most of all they charge much quicker.

I'm sure batteries are like outboards, everybody has their preference. That's what makes the waterways wonderful! Okay, now that I've given you my 2 cents worth, I'm broke!

Good luck!

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The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.