Battery cable question

[Jim13]

Is there a difference between marine battery cables and car cables?

I was shopping for some on line and saw that many of them look just like car cables. It would be easier to pick them up locally from the auto parts store if they are the same.

Boat would be a 97 sprint F&S with a 115 Johnson.

 

[F_R]

Re: Battery cable question

Some marine batteries are deep cycle to better withstand repeated discharge from trolling motors. Others, "starting batteries" aren't much different from automotive. They claim they are better constructed to withstand pounding and vibration, but that is questionable.

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Battery cable question

No difference except maybe the terminals on some. I would use the ones from the auto parts store...

 

[rickd20006]

Re: Battery cable question

I think the question is pertaining to battery cables not batteries.
Just take note of what is currently being used and match them to what's in the store. Auto part store will have these ends. Just make sure they are crimped really good.

 

[ezeke]

Re: Battery cable question

The better marine cables are made with fine strands of copper for flexibility not required in auto cables and are tinned to retard corrosion. Similarly, the lugs are made of copper and tinned. They are normally sealed with heat shrink tubing at the lugs. Some auto cables are made to the same standards but definitely not all.

Also important is the size of the cable, which must increase for longer distance.

 

[Jim13]

Re: Battery cable question

That is good to know. 8)

I'll see if I can find a quality cable locally before I spend big bucks online.

Thanks for the info!

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Battery cable question

stay away from the aluminum stranded cables. as they require a larger size to carry the same current.

 

[tiller7104]

Re: Battery cable question

My addition to this interesting subject is.....If you are on this forum I would suspect that you are more apt to do maint. then most, at least it seems that way !! Cleaning and coating your terminals should be a yearly or bi yearly event. (Should be LOL) I did not know about the stranding in marine-vs-Auto very interesting and you can teach old dogs new tricks !!