Deep cycle or starting?

[Gary]

We needed to replace the battery in our Hunter 22 this spring. The battery which came with the boat was a marine deepcycle. This is what I went to buy. The battery types at the boat shop felt that since we primarily use the battery to start the outboard (ten horse) that we would be better off with starting type battery. We rarely run the lights, and use the radio sparingly. We bought the starting battery and a solar charger to keep it topped up. Have I made a mistake? Your thoughts will be appreciated.garyg

 

[Steve Dion]

More to it than starting ability.

Gary:There is more to a deep cycle than that. The ability to be deeply discharged and recharged are what really set it apart from a "starting" battery. An automotive type battery can only withstand a few deep discharges before a failure. You can always start your engine with the pull start. It does not really take much power to start these small O/B engines.So, in my opinion you should have purchased a dual purpose or a deep cycle. Keep track of how long your battery last and always keep it fully charged if possible and you CAN get a decent life from the battery you just purchased. Next time you can try out the other type.

 

[Ron]

Steve's Right

You should've gotten the deep cycle. You should never run any battery down below 50% and with that much power remaining you could easily start your engine. I think that it is unfortunate that sales people who know nothing act as if they are authorities just because they work at the store. Best to know what you want long before you arrive at the boat store. But good luck with your new battery... Ron/KA5HZV