Hooking up 2 batteries in parallel

[Jerkalip]

Will hooking up 2 new 12v batteries in parallel extend the usage time of my 12volt (55#) trolling motor, or would I get more efficiency by using them one at a time?

 

[Pascal]

Re: Hooking up 2 batteries in parallel

Will hooking up 2 new 12v batteries in parallel extend the usage time of my 12volt (55#) trolling motor, or would I get more efficiency by using them one at a time?

Electrically speaking, you should get the same time, hooked or unhooked, because the amp/hr capacity adds together with the parallel connection.

By hooking them together though, you get more fishing time cause you don't have to stop to switch the connections.......

 

[steelespike]

Re: Hooking up 2 batteries in parallel

An Excellent way to extend battery time is to select the heavyest(literally) battery you can afford Perhaps the Trojan 30XHS 130 amp hours.This also will extend your battery life.The less it discharges in each use the more cycles it will stand.You should allways try not to take a deepcycle below 40%,about 12.20 volts. The 30XHS is about $200.Deka also make an excellent group 30 deepcycle 105amp hours about $100 but definately less cycle life.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Hooking up 2 batteries in parallel

How much battery you need depends on how fast you troll, how you troll (constant on or intermittent), and the size of the boat the motor is pushing or pulling. I fish all day using one high capacity group 27 on a pontoon being pulled around by a 55# MinnKota Power Drive. If I pull in for lunch I plug in at the dock and fish again until dark. Two group 27's would certainly be adequate and cheaper than the big 30. I buy my group 27 deep cycles at my local farm store for $69.00 on sale.

 

[Jerkalip]

Re: Hooking up 2 batteries in parallel

Thank you all for your answers and your time. I actually need a 24v system with probably a 70# or more thrust; but I will have to make do with the 55# Minnkota 12v. I think I will run parallel just to save time to prevent reaching inside the center console. I have a 20' Seaark (aluminum) w/ a 125 HP Merc. I guess now you can see why I was wanting to know how to get the most out of my trolling motor. Thanks again for all of your help. I appreciate the time you take to help all of us novices.

 

[Randybeall]

Re: Hooking up 2 batteries in parallel

Just a battery note. Do not leave batteries hooked in parallel when not in use. Being the little chemical plants that they are they will kill each other over time. Disconnect the negative cable and charge them fully or leave them on seperate circuts of your battery maintainer.

 

[SKEETR]

Re: Hooking up 2 batteries in parallel

Generously apply marine grease to clean terminals to prevent offgassing related corrosion during a recharge. A main battery switch or trippable breaker will disconnect the circuit eliminating the need to unbolting terminals. Batteries will not eat each other up if the circuit is off.