Lithium ion batteries

[Bribass]

Hello everyone
I am thinking about investing in some lithium ion batteries for my boat. I was hoping to gain some information and knowledge about them before I go spending the money. What are your thoughts? Are different brands better than others? How many volts and amps do I want? Also can I use a lithium battery for my old mercury outboard? I am also just looking for general knowledge, thoughts, and reviews. Any ideas and knowledge helps. Thanks!

 

[bruceb58]

Personally, I wouldn't do it. You would have to buy a dual purpose LiFePO4 and then you have to get a DC to DC converter to properly charge it otherwise you will burn out the alternator.

If you are talking about getting some lithium batteries for a trolling motor set up, that's another story...you still have to get a proper way to charge them.

BTW...I love lithium batteries. I use them for my travel trailer. I actually made my own.

 

[Bribass]

Personally, I wouldn't do it. You would have to buy a dual purpose LiFePO4 and then you have to get a DC to DC converter to properly charge it otherwise you will burn out the alternator.

If you are talking about getting some lithium batteries for a trolling motor set up, that's another story...you still have to get a proper way to charge them.

BTW...I love lithium batteries. I use them for my travel trailer. I actually made my own.

Don’t they have a longer lifespan and also charge lasts longer? For my trolling motor could I just put it on a trickle charger? I don’t believe it’s hooked up to charge off a alternator.

 

[airshot]

LifePo4 batteries are designed for long steady draws, such as a trolling motor, or running lights, radio, accessories of every type. The hard quick draw of a starter is not ideal for the overall health of these batteries so it is not recomended. Powering inverters in travel trailers is an excellent use for these batteries. They do REQUIRE a specific type of charger designed for Lipo batteries, using a regular LA type charge could cause an explosion or fire. My particular LifePo4 battery runs my trolling motor about two/ three times longer than my old group 31 dual batteries and the Lipo does charge more quickly. Do your research before purchase, they are great batteries and only pennies more costly than lead acid deep cycle batteries, but you need to buy that special charger. If they suit your needs, you will love them!

 

[bruceb58]

You won't get a fire if you charge with a lead acid charger. The worst that would happen is that it wouldn't get fully charged. A lithium battery has a BMS which shuts off all charge current once a certain voltage is reached so you would never be able to damage them.

Don’t they have a longer lifespan and also charge lasts longer? For my trolling motor could I just put it on a trickle charger? I don’t believe it’s hooked up to charge off a alternator.

Yes...they last WAY longer...3000 or more
Just buy a charger made for lithium so it will get fully charged. A trickle charger would take WAY too long to fully charge a lithium battery.

 

[Pmt133]

Just to add... don't use the BMS as a crutch/rely on it to constantly save you. It's a safety. I've had a few responses to homes (well what was left of them) where people just outright abused batteries and uh... well fire. Granted, this was dozens of offenses and frankly Darwin always wins... but just follow what the manufacturer says and not your gut or some guy on reddit.

I love lithium too. Just don't be an idiot like those people and get real safety tested and rated equipment. It's almost always something in the chain or the user. It nearly never is the fault of the battery itself. It's a whole system. Treat it as such.

 

[Mc Tool]

LifePo4 batteries are designed for long steady draws, such as a trolling motor, or running lights, radio, accessories of every type. The hard quick draw of a starter is not ideal for the overall health of these batteries so it is not recomended. Powering inverters in travel trailers is an excellent use for these batteries. They do REQUIRE a specific type of charger designed for Lipo batteries, using a regular LA type charge could cause an explosion or fire. My particular LifePo4 battery runs my trolling motor about two/ three times longer than my old group 31 dual batteries and the Lipo does charge more quickly. Do your research before purchase, they are great batteries and only pennies more costly than lead acid deep cycle batteries, but you need to buy that special charger. If they suit your needs, you will love them!

Can I ask what sort of battery and charger do you have ?
I have not long bought an electric outboard ,45lb thrust but have not yet decided on what brand etc as there isnt anyone I know using lithium and if one relies on internet searches you wind up spinning out with all the contradictions and comments like " they are a great brand , if you get a good one "
Im thinking I want 100ah.....maybe two , and if I knew of someone happy with his outfit I probly follow that .