Battery question(s)

**FroggerZack** · 08-16-2008, 01:17 PM

I have a 16 ft Tracker boat that currently has two batteries, a starting battery and a deep cycle that are wired in parallel for my 12v trolling motor. Although it is not optimal I have been running this configuration for about 3-4 years for extended run time on the trolling motor and has been pretty good up until now. I went fishing and noticed that volt meter on my depth finder was going down quicker than usual and finally was just barely able to start my engine to get in! I swung by Autozone on the way in and had the batteries tested and the starting battery was bad.

Should I replace this battery with a combination starting/cranking battery or just a plain starting battery? I don't really have the money to pony up for a couple of batteries at this point but putting in a couple combos would be sweet!

Whats a good brand of battery? I was thinking about going by Academy as they are real good about returns and such if I have a problem.

Thanks guys for your help.

**Barnacle Bill** · 08-16-2008, 02:23 PM

Get a deep cycle the same size as the other one. BTW, they are wired in parallel to provide 12V. Batteries wired in series provides 24V. My fishin buddy that passed last year ran that set up for years with no problems.

**FroggerZack** · 08-16-2008, 03:15 PM

Thanks Bill for the clarification on parallel wiring. I will be starting the motor also from this setup so I'm kind of hesitant to put another deep cycle in.

**crappie cowboy** · 08-16-2008, 08:45 PM

Originally Posted by FroggerZ

Thanks Bill for the clarification on parallel wiring. I will be starting the motor also from this setup so I'm kind of hesitant to put another deep cycle in.

FroggerZ, Do yourself a favor and get another deep cycle battery, and use it for starting. I've been using a deep cycle for cranking for 4 years now, with no trouble.
I've kept them on a on board charging system, and I think that is the key to the long life of the battiers.
Good luck.......crappie cowboy

**Barnacle Bill** · 08-16-2008, 08:54 PM

Originally Posted by crappie cowboy

FroggerZ, Do yourself a favor and get another deep cycle battery, and use it for starting. I've been using a deep cycle for cranking for 4 years now, with no trouble.
I've kept them on a on board charging system, and I think that is the key to the long life of the battiers.
Good luck.......crappie cowboy

That'll work. Thats the way we had my buddies boat rigged.

**FroggerZack** · 08-17-2008, 10:37 AM

Thanks guys! Now off to figure out where to get one.

**wannabe fisherman** · 08-17-2008, 11:51 AM

Originally Posted by FroggerZ

Thanks guys! Now off to figure out where to get one.

Wal-Mart Auto-zone almost any place that sells batteries.

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