What kind of batteries do boats use?

[sleekpete]

I'm a first time boat owner. I'm buying a boat that needs a battery and I don't know what to get. Are there special batteries I need to get for a boat? Can I use a car battery? The boat is a 16' Rinker I/O.
Thanks!

 

[blairjbyrd]

Re: What kind of batteries do boats use?

What size engine?

 

[sleekpete]

Re: What kind of batteries do boats use?

What size engine?

120 HP

 

[Joseignacio]

Re: What kind of batteries do boats use?

You can get 3 types. 1- Deep cycle, which is used to run electronics and electrical items for a longer time. This type will last longer running electrical items. 2- Starting, which is used to give a large jump to your engine to start. Not to be used to run many electrical items especially for a long time. You could get away with some lights and/or another low consumption electrical items which will not run for many hours. 3-Dual starting and Deep cycle, which you could generally use for both.

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: What kind of batteries do boats use?

The Autozone marine starting battery has lasted well for me.
Also Interstate battery makes a good marine starting battery.

Deep cycles are not really needed unless they are used to run the electronics on the boat like GPS,fish finders and stereos.
If you plan on all the electronics or using the stereo while at anchor then a 2 battery setup is best.

 

[ezmobee]

Re: What kind of batteries do boats use?

I just went to Sears and bought a Die-Hard Marine Starting battery. Sold the boat the end of last season with 5 years on the DieHard and it was still kickin'. I'll be picking up another one for my new boat soon.