Few moew battery Questions

[Asa Colson]

I looks we will be getting new batteries. I have two batteries in the starboard storage locker under the cockpit seats (1983 Model). We have two dual purpose batteries.What is everyones opinion as to the best battery configuration? My boat has the 2GM engine how many cranking amps should I look for? What is the significance of reserve capacity?We don't have refrigeration or any other really battery intensive features installed in our boat yet but we do plan to add them. Any help and advice would be greatly appreciated.Ace

 

[Ed Schenck]

One thought.

After studying my original battery situation and trying to work in that tight space I knew a change was required. It had a 12V flooded starter battery(high CCA) and one Gel, both in the original inaccessible location. When I had to take the straps and battery box apart to get that starter battery home for the winter I knew it would be the last time. I bought two new Gels(95AH Prevailers) and put them down in that hole. No box required, only straps and those heavy rubber post covers. Never have to get down in there again. The third battery I placed in a much more accesible area with straps and brackets for a fourth. A regular "house" battery has more than enough cranking amps for a Yanmar. In fact I always put my battery switch on #2 and leave it there. The "starter" battery never gets used. I use a West Combiner so that the charger and alternator can keep all three topped off.

 

[Perry]

I know what you mean

We have a 1983 Hunter 31. What we did was move the batteries to the center line over the shaft. (see Steve Dion's article with photos). As for cranking power when you are under sail, or on the hook switch to a single battery. That way you can always have the other in reserve to crank the Yanmar. Next go with the best GelCell you can afford. I have had mine since 1996 and they still perform as though I got them last month.Best of luck to you. We love our 83 31' not many owners don't.

 

[Dick Carey]

Batteries for 2GM20(f) Yanmar

I have two Wet Cell GNB Group 27 batteries aboard 'Puffin' for both starting the Yanmar 2GM20(f) engine and for house use. They are; GNB Stowaway Marine Starting/Deep Cycle size 'Group 27'. They each have 850 Marine Cranking Amps and 180 Reserve capacity Amps. They are carried at Sam's Club for about $55. each.Both work fine. I alternate between 'Batt 1 and Batt 2' on successive days.One is 1.5 years old. The other is on it's 7th season. I will probably replace that one next spring.Just top off with Distilled Water and keep charged with engine in season and with charger when not in use for a long time. I topped off the charge early last November and left them aboard during winter dry storage. In April the two batteries had lost only 0.06 Volt on the newer and 0.14 Volts on the older.Dick CareyS/V Puffin 1990 H-33.5