Battery replacement question!

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machopekin

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Jun 4, 2004
7
Hunter 37.5 Sausalito, CA
We have a 1991 H37.5...... with a set of 3 questionable batteries in the starboard lazarette. I am not an electrician and have minimal mechanical ability, but one battery does not hold a charge anymore, and the other two are hooked up in series and provide most of the electrical. I want to replace all 3 with new batteries. We only use the batteries for starting, playing the stereo when we are out sailing and the adler barbour fridge for an hour on and off to keep food chilled. We are never away from shore power more than two days at a time so charging is not a major factor in this. Can some one recommend some decent batteries to purchase....I have read so much about the different types my head is spinning.......
 
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sailorhayes

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Oct 21, 2004
12
Hunter 37-cutter memphis, TN
just a suggestion

i have been very satisfied with the orbital sealed batteries... my situation is similar to yours...if i needed more electric i would go with another type probably gel... orbital should be able to be found at a distributor near you... not too bad on the expense and they are sealed... i understand a group of engineers from optima left to form orbital... so the distributor really recommended these and i have been pleased (just in case i have the names reversed you want the brand that is NOT sold at autozone and NAPA which i think is optima) sailorhayes@hotmail.com
 
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Debra B

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Jun 5, 2004
242
None None Greater Cincinnati
Find local battery distributer

There are 2 around here that will sell to the public. I am sure there is at least one in your area. These folks usually have "scratch and dents" - perfect batteries with case imperfections. These will be simple lead acid batteries. (they may have some gells) These will be fine batteries at a reduced price. If any of your batteries are in parallel (don't know how your boat is set up) then those should all be replaced at the same time - for the most part. All 3 batteries should be the same technology. All Lead Acid, all AGM or all Gell Cell. Don't mix. In part this will be determined by your charger... Gells are very sensitive to charging. As I have said other places, I have six 6-volt batteries in my house bank plus a starting battery. The house bank is made up of Trojan T-105's. But then I am out for more than 2 days.
 
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Steve Dion

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Dec 2, 1999
15,184
Hunter Vision-36 Rio Vista, CA.
Budget and space

There are several options here. First, if you have the space you could consider 6V golf cart batteries for the house keeping. This may require a slightly larger foot print and/or more vertical space. They are primarily flooded batteries. If you do not want to worry about the maintenance aspects and your budget can handle it, then you should look at Gel or AGM type batteries. I had some W/M Gels that lasted for 10+ years. If you want to go cheapo, just get replacement deep cycles from Costco or Sams Club and replace them every 2 or 3 years. PS: Why do you turn off your reefer when you go sailing?
 
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