Auto Battery vs. Marine Battery

[DavidPJ]

The used boat I purchased has a 2-3 year old auto battery, not a marine battery. The motor is a Honda outboard 200. What's the difference between an auto battery and a marine battery? Should I think about replacing the auto battery even though it seems to be operating just fine? Thanks.

 

[Maclin]

Re: Auto Battery vs. Marine Battery

One difference is the terminals. Marine batteries have the big posts as well as a stud on top, and no side terminals,

 

[roscoe]

Re: Auto Battery vs. Marine Battery

Marine batteries are supposed to be made tougher, more shock resistant, thicker plates, etc.

 

[ricohman]

Re: Auto Battery vs. Marine Battery

I would think the marine battery will have the plates fixed on the top and the bottom for vibration resistance.
That said, does anyone use Optima batteries in their boats? I've used these for years in the off-road rock crawling world and they are a very tough unit that you can mount in any poisition.