I need help with batteries purchase - sizing

[said]

I just got a yard-craft 14' with a mercury 800 80 hp and a minnekota 50 pound trust trolling motor.
Which batteries and size should I use for these new toys?
Thanks.

 

[rfdfirecaptain]

Re: I need help with batteries purchase - sizing

I’m sure there is a battery expert on here somewhere, but in the meantime I’ll give you my opinion. I think you’re better off to get deep cycle batteries that have starting ability. I bought 2 of them a couple of years ago at Walmart. They were Group 31 batteries about $125 each. I spend a lot of time on my boat using battery power for a refrigerator, television and other electronics. I have never had one battery drain down so low it still wouldn’t start my boat. Although, I would definitely recommend getting a dual battery switch (about $50). That way you can alternate batteries to extend their life and to ensure you never have two nearly dead batteries.

As for the Group size… well it’s simple. The bigger the battery (group size) the longer the battery lasts.

 

[glenn property of pam]

Re: I need help with batteries purchase - sizing

what do you want the battery to do, how are you planning on charging it, how much weight can you carry safely. once you know the ans to these questions then bigger realy is better.
i would realy surgest dual and if size/weight of the batteries matter then small cranking battery and large deep cell would be the best option. as its a 14' boat you will have to make some sacrifices. if you can charge with out removing them it will make life easier as the motor will not be able to recharge the deep cell but should not have a problem with keeping the cranking battery full. i would also surgest that you buy posts with the wing nut threads so if you do ever manage to flatten the cranking battery you can pull the leads and change over to the deep cell (dual cycle will already have threads on them). im thinking 24 cranking (possibly a dual cycle) and a 29 deep or dual cycle

 

[said]

Re: I need help with batteries purchase - sizing

I would like to use the batteries to start the mercury and also troll from time to time if not drifting with the bags.
I Have also a bilge pump.