Is a bigger battery better?

[ZmOz]

I have two batteries that I can put into my boat this year. (only using one) One is a large group 24 that was in the boat before. 500CCA automotive battery. The other is a smaller one out of my Jeep that I wrecked in december. It's rated at 540CCA. Since they're rated almost the same, is there any reason the bigger battery would be better?

 

[sloopy]

Re: Is a bigger battery better?

If it fits in your battery box, go for it! UNLESS you use the boat off shore, if you do, you are better off buying a new battery.

 

[MrBill]

Re: Is a bigger battery better?

A battery's group size simply characterizes it's length, width and height, and has nothing to do with a battery's capacity. Regardless of the group size, two batteries are equal in power if the CCA ratings are the same.<br /><br />Marine deep cycle batteries have thicker plates and a lower cranking ability but they have a lot more reserve capacity. Deep Cycle Batteries endure a lot more discharge/recharge cycles than starting batteries and therefore will provide longer life than an automotive battery. Heat and vibration are the most common causes for battery failure.<br /><br />Unlike other automotive parts...like starters, alternators, etc., that can introduce fire hazards because they're not sealed to prevent sparking, automotive batteries are essentially the same as marine 'starting batteries'.

 

[Elmer Fudge]

Re: Is a bigger battery better?

So, is there such a thing as a deep cycle starting battery?

 

[ZmOz]

Re: Is a bigger battery better?

Originally posted by Elmer Fudge:<br /> So, is there such a thing as a deep cycle starting battery?

Not really. There are "compromise" batteries, but they aren't very good at starting OR deep cycling. <br /><br />And no, there certainly won't be any ocean going in my boat. Even choppy rivers are almost suicidal.

 

[cobra 3.0]

Re: Is a bigger battery better?

Not very good? What are you basing that statement on? I would say it is the battery of choice for marine duty. My group 27 GM Voyager has 720 CA or 550 CCA. That can easily turn over any V8 gas engine. <br /><br /> http://www.acdelco.com/html/pi_batt_mar_main.htm

 

[ZmOz]

Re: Is a bigger battery better?

They are called a "compromise" battery for a reason. A compromise is when both sides give up a little bit. A comparable deep cycle battery would last many many more cycles than a compromise battery, and a comparable starting battery would provide alot more cranking amps.

 

[WHITEBOYY32]

Re: Is a bigger battery better?

i would get a deep cycle battery for everything but the engine. i would get a good deep cycle starting battery for the engine by itself, dont take a chance of getting stranded. ive used it thset up this way my whole life and its never failoed me ok !!!

 

[18rabbit]

Re: Is a bigger battery better?

Originally posted by Elmer Fudge:<br /> So, is there such a thing as a deep cycle starting battery?

Yes. AGM batteries are deep cycle bats that have excellent starting capabilities. Often used in military combat vehicles where starting loads are heavy and failure is not on option.