Charging batteries

[Silvertip]

Re: Charging batteries

CRB -- did you check the output of a $40 solar charger? It would take a month to charge a deeply discharged battery with one of those. I have one -- it is used to "maintain" the battery in my tractor over the winter. A solar charger large enough for charging duties and the required controller are very expensive and a target for thieves if left unattended.

 

[crb478]

Re: Charging batteries

CRB -- did you check the output of a $40 solar charger? It would take a month to charge a deeply discharged battery with one of those. I have one -- it is used to "maintain" the battery in my tractor over the winter. A solar charger large enough for charging duties and the required controller are very expensive and a target for thieves if left unattended.

 

[crb478]

Re: Charging batteries

I agree that it could not be counted on to charge the battery that is being deeply discharged. But I have had good luck keeping the cranking battery topped off enough to crank the main engine. An alternator would be preferred, but a solar charger might get you home.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Charging batteries

We are discussing charging a trolling motor battery. Starting the engine is not a problem as it can be rope started. A solar panel that small is of virtually no use in this situation.

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: Charging batteries

I am with Silvertip on this one. On another topic of discussion, automotive alternators I have used a car to charge a dead battery on some of the old heaps that i owned in prior years with no alternator problems. My opinion is that they are tougher than some think they are. But that is just my 2 cents !!!

 

[atticus3600s]

Re: Charging batteries

Most outboards can be attached to a rectifier/alternator type system that puts out some current when running that may help your battery situation. Otherwise a small generator might be more worthwhile if you spend alot of time at remote backcountry lakes.