Parallel batteries

[jtexas]

12V trolling motor powered by a pair of batteries, parallel connection. I could better utilize on-board stowage space by moving the batteries to the stern, which would add about 12 feet of wiring; it's about six feet now. But for weight & balance it would be better to move just one.

Anybody know the impact on performance of having parallel-wired batts separated by twelve feet of wire?

thanks!

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Parallel batteries

Shouldn't be a problem if you use heavy enough wire. Double up 8 or 6 ga from the rear to the front battery.

 

[jtexas]

Re: Parallel batteries

ahhh...2x the wires - I never woulda thought of that...thanks!

 

[wileecoyote985]

Re: Parallel batteries

John;

I had a situation similar to yours - one battery in front of boat and one in stern. I wanted to connect them in series as I picked up a different (24 volt) transom mount motor at a garage sale.

Called Minn Kota and they recommended 6 gauge wire. It's working fine for me and I imagine the same wire gauge would work for you.

One note. Make sure you use a fuse or circuit breaker on the hot lead in case of a short circuit. I used a 50 amp manual reset breaker on mine.

BTW. I realize you said you are running two twelves in parallel. I believe the wiring gauge should work out the same. Minn Kota or Motorguide could answer your question for certain though.

Gary