Battery size/capacity

[tmcalavy]

I was prowlin around in Tractor Supply today looking at tap/die sets and went back to look at the batteries. I need to get a battery soon for the Texas Maid that I'm restoring, so I picked up a 5 foot pos cable to replace the tattered one I have. Got to looking at the smaller batteries and noticed one said "good for up to 40hp motors" (somewhere around 250-300 CCA) and wondered if I really need a marine starting battery with 500 or more CCA just to start my 57 Evinrude Big Twin 35 hp that I will have on the boat. No accessories beyond bow and stern lights, and I never boat at night...so do I really need to drop $50 to $70 for a marine battery or can I get by with one of the smaller ones for tractors and motorcycles?

 

[JB]

Re: Battery size/capacity

My advice is to use only batteries that are specified for marine use, Tim. They expect to take a beating in a marine environment.

I always use the biggest, strongest battery I have room for, but I don't need it. Neither do you. 250-300 CCA should be enough if your engine starts promptly.

 

[bullgator99]

Re: Battery size/capacity

Marine batteries are more expensive but will last longer. Just as important or perhaps even more important is keeping the battery properly charged.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Battery size/capacity

One marine starting battery will not only crank the engine longer if need be, but it will last three times as long as a garden tractor battery. You also don't need to spend $70 on a marine starting battery. I just paid $65.00 each for a pair of group 27 deep cycles at my farm store. Their starting batteries were $40.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Battery size/capacity

on the 50 hp and below, i like the 850 cca. that way you have some reserve if you flood the motor. they have to turn +-300 rpms to start.