Quote Originally Posted by Wfolds View Post
I replace two Optima last November that I had installed when I purchased my boat in 1999. The cost at least twice the price of a regular deep cycle, but the way I figure 3 to 4 times the life (12 yrs.) is worth it. I have an onboard charger and as soon as the boat is put up, I charge them. Also the Optimas charge faster than a standard battey. I tested the batteries on a weekend trip fishing about 3 hours on Friday, 8 hours on Saturday and 4 hours on Sunday. This was done without charging beteeen days. Near the end of the time on Sunday I noticed the trolling motor starting to slow down. Got home @ 2pm on Sunday and put the batteries on charge. By 10 pm my charger showed a full charge.
I personally never use GEL or AGM batteries such as the Optimas for deep cycle use such as trolling......The problem with these is that you cannot recharge at a rate more than about 10 amps without damaging the battery...
Charging produces Hydrogen Sulphide gas as the battery charges.........Charging at a high rate in Gel type batteries causes gas bubbles in the gel which causes cell degradation and failure over time........

If you are running Optimas or any other Gel or AGM charge them slow!