24 volt trolling motor setup compatible with fishfinder etc?

[BonairII]

I currently run a 12v trolling motor and run my bilge pumps and fishfinders off the same battery as the TM.

I'm considering picking up a 24v trolling motor. I'll have to wire the 2 batteries "in series" to run the TM. Will I need to buy yet another battery to run the bilge pump,fishfinders, running lights?

 

[Pony]

Re: 24 volt trolling motor setup compatible with fishfinder etc?

What are you starting the motor with? I would run the pumps and fishfinders off the starting battery and keep the other 2 batteries that are running the 24v trolling motor separate. You would need 3 batteries. I personally wouldn't want to be drawing charge out of the 24v bank unequally.

This is my set up.....

 

[BonairII]

Re: 24 volt trolling motor setup compatible with fishfinder etc?

I start my motor with its own battery in the stern of the boat.

Do fishfinders draw enough juice to even be of concern?

 

[Pony]

Re: 24 volt trolling motor setup compatible with fishfinder etc?

They don't really draw much at all, and the main engine should be charging that battery through the alternator. I don't run the main engine a ton, and I have never had an issue. I run 3 pretty big color locators.

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Electronics should not be ran off trolling motor batteries. Its not so much because of the current draw as it is possible to damage your electronics due to power surges and interference. You do have a surge every time you step on the trollers go button.