e-tec battery compatibility

[amirm]

Went to check out the boat in the marina, found someone has stolen both of my batteries! The darn things were only 9 months old (came with the new boat).<br /><br />So time to get another set. I have an e-tec 220HP primary engine and a Yamaha 8HP high thrust kicker. Since we don't use the boat over the winter, I was thinking about switching to Gel/AGM types. But given the strict charging requirements of these batteries, I was not sure if it was wise to use them in this setup.<br /><br />Anyone know if the charger in the e-tec (and the Yamaha for that matter) are compatible with these new chemistries?<br /><br />The old batteries were sealed lead acid, workaholic brands. Is that a good brand for marine batteries (I see that they mostly promote them for trucks).<br /><br />And while I have you here, how do you safeguard the batteries so that they can't be stolen? They took the box, the battery termina and all. Is there a battery box with a locking mechanism? Or a strap that locks?<br /><br />Thanks in advance!<br />Amir

 

[steelespike]

Re: e-tec battery compatibility

I sure can't help much with the e-tec all I know is the Gels are sensitive to too high a charge rate and can be ruined by too much amperage.You need to find out the charge rate and talk to the battery folks to see if there is a match.My guess is the 8hp charge output is low enough that it will have no problem.It is probably low and unregulated.To be safe you need to know the output and what the battery will handle.<br /> I think a well cared for flooded battery is the way to go.I have 6 12volt flooded Trojans in my electric GEM car and they give no trouble.And motive power is absolutely the worst application for batteries.Depending on my use I can draw down 6 batteries to 40% in about 30 to 45 minutes of driving.You shouldn't go below 40% before recharging any deep cycle battery.Also<br />recharge as soon as possible after use.

 

[amirm]

Re: e-tec battery compatibility

Thanks Spike. My only interest in using Gel/AGM was for winter storage. Otherwise, I agree that standard wet batteries do the job.<br /><br />If anyone has advice on how to secure the batteries against theft, it would be appreciated.<br /><br />Amir

 

[mikeyzx2]

Re: e-tec battery compatibility

I'm guessing that those batteries were out in the open.......if there's no where on the boat to lock them up, take them home with you. Wouldn't be surprised if someone at the marina had a couple dead batteries and decided to use yours.

 

[amirm]

Re: e-tec battery compatibility

Yeh, that is what I figured happened. Thanks anyway!<br /><br />Amir

 

[muskrat]

Re: e-tec battery compatibility

I like to see at leased 800cca to 1000 mca cranking battery,unless you have alot of accesories you run go deep cycle.I think is doesnt matter what design gel or wet,just how much you want to send.And with the battery stealers,remove in winter or move the boat to another location.

 

[amirm]

Re: e-tec battery compatibility

The old battery was rated at 950 CCA (Interstate workaholic). So your recommendations are right on. Anyone has an opinion on using a truck battery like what came with the boat rather than the marine versions?<br /><br />Amir