I have decided to go with Gel batteries to replace my old deep cycle. Battery #1 holds its charge @100%, while battery #2 hovers around 60% after 2 good hours of motoring. Pricing and deciding a guy at Boats U.S. tol dme that all batteries are sent with 70-80% charge on them. Why not 100%, I thought? My question, regardless of the charge percentage I get, should I first charge the batteries to their 100% capacity, OR, if the batteries are at say 80%, should I go ahead and hook them up, turn on the engine and let the alternator do its job? Wet Memorial Day week-end here! Oh well , I pulled duty so.... there's always the 4th! Good Sailing, John s/v "LOTUS"