Battery selection

[HGM]

I have had trouble with my house batteries on my 350 the last couple times out. This weekend they went in just a few hours and took a very long time to come back with the generator. I checked the charger output and at each battery and got 13.02 volts. According to the punch out the batteries are tow years old but are starting batteries. I plan on replacing both with deep cycle batteries. The boat has the original 20 year old charger. There are many types of batteries available and selection can be confusing. Does anyone have any suggestions?

 

[MonacoMike]

The best batteries are Optimas blue tops, I suggest group 31 for your boat. They are also more expensive, but are truly maintenance free. Many here have gotten exceptional life and quick recovery. MM

 

[HGM]

Mike,
Do you know if can they be used with a conventional charger?

 

[300SR]

Just bought 3 Blues=optima, problem had to buy a new charger. Oh well. maybe good for 4-5 years? We will see

Optimas are AGM's and you need the right charger for them.

 

[MonacoMike]

Mike,
Do you know if can they be used with a conventional charger?

Not sure, mine is selectable. Hopefully somone will add to this. MM

 

[300SR]

Some are some are not mine was not. The new one is a zantrax and that's selectable. Im good to go now

 

[MonacoMike]

http://www.optimabatteries.com/product_support/faqs.php#charging

 

[HUMPH]

Trojan makes great batteries. I just installed (2) J185H for the house and (2) Group 27 for the other engine & helm. I was in the water for 4 1/2 days over the weekend and barely used the genny for other than heating water and making coffee.