What are best battries?

[Beast]

Just purchased a 2003 sundancer that has orginal batteries, boat only has 200 hrs but want the best proforming battries, price is not an issue. Front and rear thrusters have there own set of batteries. Having a stero installed with large amps, ocean led underwater lights and all lights on boat are being switched led's so i want ever advantage i can get in power dept.

Any suggestions?

 

[jason78]

I searched and searched on this and found folks liked the Sears Die Hard Platinum Group 31 and the Optima Blue Top Group 31 the best.

When I bought mine, both were the same price. I went with Sears because of their excellent warranty coverage and the fact that there is a store 10 minutes form me. For me, the Optimas were mail order so I went the easy route (Sears) for purchase and warranty replacement if needed.

The "rumor" is that the Sears Platinum Marine Batteries are made by Oddssey who makes batteries for high end commercial applications and the govt. I have not seen proof but the case is identical but a different color and all the specs are all pretty much the same between the two batteries.

 

[Pack66Dad]

I have heard about "gel" batteries that need no water or maintenance. Have you looked at them?

 

[floriduramax1]

LifeLine AGM.. http://lifelinebatteries.com/ .. are the batteries for me!

 

[JohnEGraham]

Gel-cell is the way to go. I found a bunch on "Craigs" list that where only 9 mo. old. They where used for a Phone system back-up.

 

[floriduramax1]

Gel-cell is the way to go. I found a bunch on "Craigs" list that where only 9 mo. old. They where used for a Phone system back-up.

Be cautious with gels. Read the particulars from the MFGR of your particular gel. They need to be properly discharged and recharged for any longevity. Pay close attention the "float" charge rating.

 

[jason78]

AGM is the way to go. It is the newest improved. Here is an explaination of the difference in the 3 common marine types.

http://www.vonwentzel.net/Battery/01.Type/index.html

Also, don't even consider anything less than a Group 31, especially if cost is not a factor. You will get much more runtime than a 27 or 34.

 

[floriduramax1]

AGM is the way to go. It is the newest improved. Here is an explaination of the difference in the 3 common marine types.

http://www.vonwentzel.net/Battery/01.Type/index.html

Also, don't even consider anything less than a Group 31, especially if cost is not a factor. You will get much more runtime than a 27 or 34.

The only thing wrong with that article is the price of the LifeLine 8D:smt009 I'm a LifeLine dealer and get OEM pricing and the price they show is under my cost:huh:

 

[jason78]

The only thing wrong with that article is the price of the LifeLine 8D:smt009 I'm a LifeLine dealer and get OEM pricing and the price they show is under my cost:huh:

Maybe it's time to have a chat with your sales rep. :huh:

 

[floriduramax1]

Maybe it's time to have a chat with your sales rep. :huh:

Justin, whose family owns and operates LifeLine is a good friend of mine and I can assure you a 8D cannot be purchased for that amount.

 

[jason78]

Justin, whose family owns and operates LifeLine is a good friend of mine and I can assure you a 8D cannot be purchased for that amount.

Then maybe an email to the author of the article is in order.

 

[floriduramax1]

I see what the problem is: from the bottom of the page....
"Latest Update on Tuesday, February 13, 2007" Lead has increased since then. LifeLine is very good with adjusting their price according to the price of lead. Every time I quote a set of 8-4D batts for our coaches, I call to verify price as it changes regularly!

 

[jason78]

I see what the problem is: from the bottom of the page....
"Latest Update on Tuesday, February 13, 2007" Lead has increased since then. LifeLine is very good with adjusting their price according to the price of lead. Every time I quote a set of 8-4D batts for our coaches, I call to verify price as it changes regularly!

Out of curiosity, how much is the Lifeline Group 31 battery? Retail Cost.

 

[floriduramax1]

The highest end of the retail scale is 430.88. LifeLine does not dictate what dealers sell at. It's up to the dealer. The average retail price is 269 and up. And the freight can vary as well.

 

[Pack66Dad]

Great information guys, thank you :smt001

 

[1000islander]

I have 480CEs in my 420. I have Sears AGM group 31s (7 of them) they turn the diesels over with no effort at all. I love not having to add water. I paid 207 each, they came with a 3 year FULL replacement.

 

[floriduramax1]

Here's an Email I just received....

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*** PRICE INCREASE***​

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The metal market has been rising quite rapidly lately. For the past year it has remained stable but unfortunately lead pricing has gone up again. This will be reflected industry wide. The price increase will be effective on 12/01/2010. All shipments shipped after 12/01/2010 will reflect the new pricing. We appreciate your cooperation through today’s market. Please see the attached price sheet and if you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact us at anytime.

Thank you for your business and support.

Lifeline Batteries
1-800-527-3224