Deep Cycle or Marine Starting

[Atimm693]

My starting battery failed last night, I think it's been weak for a long time. It's not that old, but the previous owner let it sit discharged for a long time.

It is primarily a starting battery, but one sonar, the bilge/aerator, and running lights are also ran off of it.

Should I get a standard deep cycle, or will a marine starting battery suffice? The latter is about half price.

[CrappiePappy]

I'd get a marine starting battery that has enough umph to start the big motor. Deep cycle batteries are more for trolling motor use, as they're built for long/constant draw down .... while the starting batteries are for quick, high draw down.

If your accessories are in constant or heavy use (lights, DF, livewell pump, etc) ... and your big motor isn't big enough to pump some charge back into the starting battery or you don't run it very much ... you might consider a separate battery for the accessories (if you have the space for it).

[Atimm693]

I'd get a marine starting battery that has enough umph to start the big motor. Deep cycle batteries are more for trolling motor use, as they're built for long/constant draw down .... while the starting batteries are for quick, high draw down.

If your accessories are in constant or heavy use (lights, DF, livewell pump, etc) ... and your big motor isn't big enough to pump some charge back into the starting battery or you don't run it very much ... you might consider a separate battery for the accessories (if you have the space for it).

Thanks for the reply.

I have considered a house battery, but haven't had any issues with my accessories running the starting battery down, even with a battery of marginal capacity.

[Cray]

Find you one o the good marine group 24 cranking batteries. Should be more than sufficient for you load. Just charge it after every trip. Don’t rely on motor to keep it fully charged.

[Kevin22]

Get a Marine DP (dual purpose) with enough CCA for your motor. They will take the slow discharge of your accessories better than a starting battery. You definitely do not want to use a true deep cycle for starting, the quick high amp draw of the starter will shorten the life of the battery.

[Atimm693]

Thanks guys. Grabbed an Everstart 24MS last night, and a battery tender for it. My onboard charger only covers the trolling batteries.