Need New Batteries for 300 Dancer--Recommendations?

[Al Gross]

I'm in my 4th boating season on a new 2006 300 Sundancer and noticed volts on starboard down from normal 14 to 13. Presume I should get 4 x new batteries for 5th season?

If so, which ones are recommended? I read threads and it appears Optima blue tops (D-31M) are recommended?

Also, I noticed that the screw on one of my battery leads/cable is oxidized to point I can't loosen it to take off the cable. Can I use something like liquid wrench on screw with hope of getting lead off the battery post?

Appreciate your help/thouhts :smt100

Thanx much in advance!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[Hampton]

Use Coca-Cola.

Get the Deep Cycle Marine, Optima Blue Top D-31M's. You don't need the cold cranking amps, but you do need them to survive the deep cycling of relaxing on a boat with a fridge or two and the stereo playing.

 

[BahamasBlair]

Al,
I wouldn't buy 4 new batteries just because the voltage is showing 13 rather than 14. Buy a good hydrometer and check the specific gravity of each cell in the batteries when there is zero load on them and the charger is turned off. Wait at least 3 hours after you turn off the charger and/or engines to let the batteries stabilize. If you have a big difference between cells,and it shows you a gravity in the red zone of the hydrometer, the battery is probably due for a new one. On the otherhand, if all the cells are close, I would use the batteries for the season but check them once a month. Wikipedia has a good article on battery maintenance and so does the Interstate website. Good luck.

 

[ToddIrwin]

Definitely go with Marine Deep Cycles. Just plan on replacing them every 3 years. If you get 4 years, consider yourself lucky. I've had as good of luck with Interstate marine batteries as any. Make sure to check your CCAs and MCAs (cold cranking amps and marine cranking amps) to ensure both specs exceed your required ratings.

 

[fc3]

It sounds like you are the type who ignores his batteries. Heavy corrosion on the terminal clamps isn't something that someone who regularly checks the electrolyte level would experience. Therefore, get Optima AGMs. They are the best for the no maintenance boater.

Best regards,
Frank

 

[ProMariner]

Checking the electrolyte in the battery is a good idea. That alone could be the reason the voltage is low as they might require water (Distilled only). As noted from a no maintenance stand point the optima is a good choice. Alot of people also like the Odyessey bateries which are AGM Absorbed Glass Mat as well.

Jim

 

[BennyHogue]

put on 5 power master heavy duty group 27, dual purpose!! pricy but good!