What battery do I need? 4.3 Merc

[Evinrude Boater]

Time for a new battery and want to make sure I get the right size/type. Currently it has a 1000MCA marine starting battery. The battery will be used for starting, bilge blower, tilt pump, nav lights and stereo. The boat is a 1987 Doral Classic 20' bowrider with a 4.3 Mercruiser.

 

[Big Keepers]

Re: What battery do I need? 4.3 Merc

Sounds like the only thing that would be turned on while the motor is not running is the stereo and hopefully an anchor light. Nav lights, tilt pump, bilge blower all are used when the engine is running. I'm sure you can find a deep cycle or dual purpose with enough MCA's and amp hours to handle both.

 

[Evinrude Boater]

Re: What battery do I need? 4.3 Merc

I'm sure you can find a deep cycle or dual purpose with enough MCA's and amp hours to handle both.

I'm sure I can find one as well, but how much is enough? I don't want to waste money buying a battery that's far more than required.

 

[Big Keepers]

Re: What battery do I need? 4.3 Merc

I don't see why you'd need a battery with 1,000 MCA. I mean most car batteries don't have that much. Marine cranking amps are rated at 32 degrees Farenheit. You can probably use any deep cycle battery that provides at least 500 MCA.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: What battery do I need? 4.3 Merc

I always used a single 27 series battery on my 4.3LX. I never had an issue.

As long as you are not using a trolling motor or lights for any period, you should be fine.