Deep cycle charger questions.

[bassboy1]

Well, actually has nothing to do with the deep cycle batteries themselves, but the starting batteries. The charger that I used to charge my starting battery finally quit. It is now charging 1/3 of what it is supposed to ie: 2 volts on the six volt setting, and 4 on the 12. Seeing that we have had it for 25 years, it is probably time to get a new one.

My deep cycle charger is this little guy.
http://store.schumachermart.com/ss-51a-pe.html

Does a great job on my deep cycle trolling batteries. But, on my standard batteries, how will it do? In manual mode it should charge the same as any other charger, right? But, will it top off in automatic mode, or will it not stop when full?

Also, tell me a bit more about on board chargers. I am considering one of them at some point. Say that my boat consistently has only 2 batteries - one starting and one deep cycle. Would the on board charger be able to handle the different needs of the starting and trolling batteries all at the same time?

 

[drewpster]

Re: Deep cycle charger questions.

Not sure about the Schumacher charger, mine is a little different model. But it does shut down when the batts are topped off. Not sure about yours. You should be able to get the directions online.

Onboard Chargers
You will not regret getting a good onboard charger. The best thing about them is once they are installed you just plug the boat in when you get home and your done, the charger does the rest. Yes, all the better onboard chargers have separate charging legs. Meaning they will charge each battery independent of the other. They also normally have settings for different battery types. A good rule of thumb is to get one with the highest amp rating your wallet can stand. Higher amps mean higher price, but he more amps you have available the faster the recovery time of the batteries. Faster recovery time will help your batteries last longer. If you get a good battery charger also spend a little more for your batteries. Higher end batteries last longer and hold up better as well. Really good chargers also have a storage setting. When you store the boat off season the charger will keep them maintained. They will even check the batteries over set periods of time. If needed, they will go into a type of charge cycle that will keep them in condition over long storage periods. So chargers do this automatically, some have to manually set for storage. Be sure to follow the directions closely when you install the charger. And be sure the area the batteries are in can vent so that explosive gases don't build up. I spent too much on my charger four years ago but I sure don't regret it. BTW- The batteries I use are older than the charger and they are still working great. I used to have to buy new batteries every two years or so.

 

[rndn]

Re: Deep cycle charger questions.

I agree with the above post. Go with a good onboard charger and you will not regret your purchase. I installed one that has three 5 amp legs. Once one of the 3 batteries is charged the 5 amps from that leg are now available for use by the other 2 batteries. Finally as much as 15 amps is available for the last battery to charge, usually the deep cycle. I got mine from Bass Pro, but they are available here on iboats.com.

 

[bassboy1]

Re: Deep cycle charger questions.

I will look into getting one of those. Dimensions are going to be the issue. Didn't leave too much extra space in there. Oh yeah, that and getting power across the yard. Anyone priced a spool of Romex and 1/2 inch conduit recently?

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: Deep cycle charger questions.

Use PVC for the conduit. Or you could use direct bury cable (UL or UF - I forget and just installed some). But the price of copper is ridiculous.

 

[bassboy1]

Re: Deep cycle charger questions.

Use PVC for the conduit. Or you could use direct bury cable (UL or UF - I forget and just installed some). But the price of copper is ridiculous.

Sorry, that was more a sarcastic question there.

Anyway, I am stuck with conduit, as I can't bury it. Because of the layout of the driveway/yard, it will have to be put up against the base of a retaining wall that is at the edge of a concrete driveway, and then around the border of a flowerbed. So, it is conduit all the way. Copper prices are nuts. I remember when a spool of Romex was like 38 bucks, and now it is almost 80. Worse yet, I can't remember back all that far, considering I am 15.

 

[drewpster]

Re: Deep cycle charger questions.

Loooong extension cord and an outlet Mom won't mind you using. Maybe?

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Deep cycle charger questions.

i have several extenion cords, 25,50, 100 and 150ft. much cheaper than romex, or burial. i have a similar burial problem, 4 125 ft sycamore trees, you can't dig anywhere.