I have a sib and like to spend long days on the water, when I can. Some of that time is spent trolling, and some, still fishing. Only occasionally does my battery get low on juice toward the end of the day but that's something I'd like to avoid if it can be done relatively cheaply, easily and without adding weight.
I have seen some relatively inexpensive solar Battery Maintainers/Chargers that claim to be usable for trolling with electric motors. I know they only add charge slowly, thus the 'maintenance'. Questions:
1. Over 5-10 hours on water could my battery life be extended significantly (~20%), assuming an average sunny day, using such a charger (e.g. 12V, 6 watt, 300mAh)?
2. Could it be left on (attached and working) while using the motor?
3. Would any of this damage the battery? (I know charging too slowly can cause damage and at home I'd continue to charge normally, but this would be vs. no charging at all, on the water.)
All thoughts, suggestions and advice will be appreciated. Thanks.
I have seen some relatively inexpensive solar Battery Maintainers/Chargers that claim to be usable for trolling with electric motors. I know they only add charge slowly, thus the 'maintenance'. Questions:
1. Over 5-10 hours on water could my battery life be extended significantly (~20%), assuming an average sunny day, using such a charger (e.g. 12V, 6 watt, 300mAh)?
2. Could it be left on (attached and working) while using the motor?
3. Would any of this damage the battery? (I know charging too slowly can cause damage and at home I'd continue to charge normally, but this would be vs. no charging at all, on the water.)
All thoughts, suggestions and advice will be appreciated. Thanks.
