batteries

I have a question about battery charging: should I let the battery get to the almost dead level before I charge it again? Or is charging it after a normal fishing outing ok?

I had someone tell me that the more I charge a battery without letting it "die down" the more harm I'm doing to it.

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Originally Posted by Skinny1

I have a question about battery charging: should I let the battery get to the almost dead level before I charge it again? Or is charging it after a normal fishing outing ok?

I had someone tell me that the more I charge a battery without letting it "die down" the more harm I'm doing to it.

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Your battery will last much longer if you recharge it immediately after every use. Never completely discharge them. Deep cycles don't like that.

Thanks IBNFSHN.

I was also told that I never have to charge the cranking battery. I know there's a charge when the moltor is running, but it seems you should charge it every now and again.

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Originally Posted by Skinny1

Thanks IBNFSHN.

I was also told that I never have to charge the cranking battery. I know there's a charge when the moltor is running, but it seems you should charge it every now and again.

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Most older outboards have small amperage charging circuits. So if you just make short runs to where you want to fish then your starting battery never does get fully recharged. If you are making longer runs everytime then you may be OK. Also keep in mind that your charging circuit does not reach full potential until your motor is running about 2000 RPM or higher. I haven't worked on any of the newer motors especially the 4 cycle so I don't know what they are putting in them these days. I use a 3 bank on-board charger hooked to all my batteries. When I get home I plug it in and forget it until next time to go. I have been know to forget to unplug the extension cord from the boat but we won't talk about that. :o

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Originally Posted by gabowman

I got the 18 month free replacement Walmart Enterstate big yellow marine batteries. The work good running lights for nightstalking crappie. Even had one go bad inside the 18 months and got it replaced for free. Other one I have is over 3 years old and going strong.

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The newer battery just went out so guess what?!? FREE REPLACEMENT! :p Might be a tad aggrevating but as long as it keeps going this way I wont have to buy another battery. :D

I have two matching Walmart Enterstate Big Yellow batteries and I'm starting on the 3 yr with them and when they give out they will be replaced with the exact same ones if I can get them. I have fished 3 days solid running a 65lb 24 volt trolling motor and when I put them on the chargers they still had 85 percent.