battery for older engine

[tbird175]

I m ready to buy a new battery for my 1978 175 HP blackmax engine. The original owners manual says do not use maintenance free batteries. Is this due to the engine possibly over charging the battery. If so, can I make a modification to remedy this problem? I am restoring the boat, has not been used for several years. I have replaced the stator, trigger, wiring, water pump, rebuilt fuel puimp, cleaned carburators, and replaced all hoses. The engine runs fine on muffs. Hope to put in water soon.

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: battery for older engine

That is based on old technology. These new maintenance free batteries will work just fine.

 

[tbird175]

Re: battery for older engine

Thanks bhile.

 

[j_martin]

Re: battery for older engine

That is based on old technology. These new maintenance free batteries will work just fine.

I disagree completely with that statement.

That engine has a 16 amp rectifier on it, and if it has a voltage regulator still on it, it isn't very effective. Bottom line is that the battery acts as the regulator, but it will use some water in doing it.

Maintenance free battery gas recovery has a limit, and when that limit is hit, the battery will be destroyed. A wet maintainable battery will last for full expected life is the electrolyte is topped off on a regular basis with water.

Get an ordinary marine cranking group 24, maintain it, and it will serve you well.

hope it helps
John

 

[hl]

Re: battery for older engine

I sure you know to get at least 850 cranking amps. Academy has a good battery with a 1000crank. amp. for a great price.

 

[j_martin]

Re: battery for older engine

I sure you know to get at least 850 cranking amps. Academy has a good battery with a 1000crank. amp. for a great price.

Why? Cranking amps is about 130 for that engine. No critical electronics on it.

 

[tbird175]

Re: battery for older engine

I disagree completely with that statement.

That engine has a 16 amp rectifier on it, and if it has a voltage regulator still on it, it isn't very effective. Bottom line is that the battery acts as the regulator, but it will use some water in doing it.

Maintenance free battery gas recovery has a limit, and when that limit is hit, the battery will be destroyed. A wet maintainable battery will last for full expected life is the electrolyte is topped off on a regular basis with water.

Get an ordinary marine cranking group 24, maintain it, and it will serve you well.

hope it helps
John

Thanks for the information John. I will take your advice.