How many batteries are you running?

[masongardner]

I have an '87 2150 ciera. When I was winterizing it (just bought it btw), I noticed there was only 1 battery. Now maybe I am stupid, but shouldn't you have at least a couple of batteries on a boat, maybe one for backup for starting and running the accessories off of. Thanks for your opinions.

 

[Grandad]

Re: How many batteries are you running?

Hi Mason, welcome to iBoats. I wouldn't venture anywhere without a second battery. My set up has 2 large H27 deep cycle batteries. Before you purchase a second battery, do some research into starting batteries vs deep cycle and others. Some people use 2 batteries with different characteristics. I use mine interchangeably, so I like them to be identical. - Grandad

 

[Don S]

Re: How many batteries are you running?

Personal choice.

There is no rule that says you have to have more than one, and if you keep your engine well tuned and in good shape, it shouldn't make much difference. It also depends a lot on where and how you boat.

 

[glenn property of pam]

Re: How many batteries are you running?

batteries are dead weight so it depends on why you would want to carry something that you may never use. you will have to service the battery even when its not used and the install will add more points that could possible fail to the starting system. if you are looking for a way to start in a emergency then a jump pack is a better tool to carry and requires less install and upkeep.

 

[EddiePetty]

Re: How many batteries are you running?

^^^^^. Yep, just as 'g of p' said. Our V-20 has twin batteries through a Perko and we still carry a jump pack! It comes in real handy at the ramp when we encounter those that never check their batteries. Our jump pack has a l.p. air compressor that it great for pumping up tow-toys and emergency tire inflation.

 

[MH Hawker]

Re: How many batteries are you running?

I just use one but its a group 31

 

[matt167]

Re: How many batteries are you running?

If you are going to have a lot of time with the ignition off/ not charging, then you may want a dual battery setup. Otherwise it's just dead weight

 

[masongardner]

Re: How many batteries are you running?

great tips! thanks. sounds like i will be getting a jump pack and carrying it with me.

 

[Boobie Trap]

Re: How many batteries are you running?

If you are on a small lake in CO, then I would think that you would not need one. Jump pack or jumper cables or a paddle should do it.
I would not go out without the second battery. If you run your radio for an afternoon you might find out why! I have a amp and it will run a battery down in about 5 hours, thus I have two for cranking and one to start the genset to charge the batteries if I need that!

Good luck!!

 

[Todd4]

Re: How many batteries are you running?

4 TOTAL:
2 for 24 V trolling motor
1 for house battery
1 for dedicating starting battery

AC and DC on-board chargers

I like my set-up, since I'll anchor and spend the night playing the radio, anchor light, etc.

 

[fishrdan]

Re: How many batteries are you running?

I have a similar 4 battery setup as Todd4. 2 of the batteries are dedicated to the 24V trolling motor, but either way, I would have a backup start/house battery on an AB switch. I have had more than one occasion where a start (automotive) battery was working just fine and not showing any signs that it was dying, then a couple of hours later it was completely dead and wouldn't crank over the engine.

Being stuck in a parking lot is one thing, being stuck out on the water is a whole different ball game. You never know when a battery is going to "just up and die", could be a year, could be 5 years or 10.....

 

[dingbat]

Re: How many batteries are you running?

A jump box is a passive system. It requires constant maintenance. The only sure thing with a jump pack is that it will fail you at the most inopportune time. Been there, done that.

I run a lot of high powered electronics so I run 2 - group 27 deep cell batteries with an ACR system. Flip the switch when I get on the boat and battery selection, isolation and charging are automatic. Turn it off when I get back to the dock. Installing the ACR was the best investment I’ve made in a while

 

[tahoejag]

Re: How many batteries are you running?

I run 3 - (1) Dual purpose Duralast DLDP-27 for cranking/electronics and (2) 12v Interstate group 29 deep cells (24v) strictly for a troller. 3 bank promariner mult-stage charger that gets plugged in until time to go boating again, fresh batteries all the time, including the cranking bttry. Never had a bttry issue.