One or two batteries?????

[kozman01]

I currently have a Merc 800 80hp that is started off of a "Starting battery". The boat is only 16 ft long, but I like to use the CD player, depth finder and my VHF radio while the boat if off. I usually do not have the VHF on continuiosly. Do I need to add a "Deep Cycle" battery as well or one of the "Dual" purpose marine batteries? I used the "Starting" battery last year, but I never kept the engine off for more than 15-30 minutes while I was listening to the radio. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[JB]

Re: One or two batteries?????

You need one, dual purpose battery, Kozman.<br /><br />Get a big one. I recommend the Everstart Marine Max battery at Wal Mart.<br /><br />Moving to Boats<br /><br />Good luck.

 

[kozman01]

Re: One or two batteries?????

Sorry about the mispost. Thanks for the info. and that's what I wanted to hear. Here's another question. Can that one year old marine battery be used in an old, small toyota. The battery in my Camry is goinf and I'd like not to have to buy two batteries, one for the boat and one for the car. Thanks again for the advice!

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: One or two batteries?????

If the terminals are on the correct side you can use it in a car.It should have enough power to start a 4 cyl.Charlie

 

[kozman01]

Re: One or two batteries?????

Thanks, again.

 

[Solittle]

Re: One or two batteries?????

I always start my boat at home before heading for the ramp. More than once I have pulled a battery from a car when the boat battery was to low.

 

[cuzner]

Re: One or two batteries?????

Solittle, been there myself,since I trailer now I always start before I head to the ramp.I would'nt suggest getting an everstart though,first one I had did'nt last through 2 seasons. I would sugest getting 1 large deep cycle and save the expense of buying a switch and extra wires for 2 batteries, you can always pull start you outboard (been there to)you should be able to listen to the radio all day unless you have a monster system or your battery is already shot.<br /><br /> Jim

 

[Mercury140-I6]

Re: One or two batteries?????

I usually start my Merc before leaving also, but one time, when I got to the ramp, the starter sylinoid took a dump on the way and I had to jump across to start the bad boy. Glad I had someone else there with me, couldn't have done it alone.<br /><br />Craig<br /><br /> http://www.myfishingpictures.com/showphoto.php?photo=13003

 

[mattttt25]

Re: One or two batteries?????

i would go with one good group 27 dual purpose battery (slightly larger and heavier than the standard group 24). would give you plenty of cranking amps, even if it's run down a bit from a long day playing tunes.

 

[kozman01]

Re: One or two batteries?????

Thanks for the response. It looks like no matter what, I'll be able to stay away from the dual battery set-up.