Reply With QuoteThat there is a good question.....
I know on rv's and such they use 2 deep cycle 6 volts inline that run the coach and charge off the engine and then a 12 volt to start the motor but......???
mirvin
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O.K., here is my present setup.:
2 optima blue top deep cycle batteries
1 optima blue top starting battery
Now, this is how I use my system:
When starting batt switch is set to "all", and remains there unless I plan on the boat sitting with the stereo on (boat off) for an extended period of time. If I am going to be sitting there, I switch to the "2" position (deep cycles) so I don't run my starting battery down. I then switch back to "all" when starting the boat, and running again.
Here is my question:
Am I better off with the 2 deep cycles and 1 starting battery, or would I be better off with 3 deep cycles and doing away with the starting battery. They calll the Optima deep cycle blue tops "dual purpose" batteries, and since there are times the entire system is running of all the batteries at the same time I wonder if they should all be the same type.
Thanks
That there is a good question.....
I know on rv's and such they use 2 deep cycle 6 volts inline that run the coach and charge off the engine and then a 12 volt to start the motor but......???
mirvin
Rick, I was checking into the same scenario and I think you're better off going with three deep cycles. And the price difference is only about 12 dollars at the site I mentioned earlier.
Here is the link to the Optima site that gives the specs on the marine batteries. Optima specs (http://www.optimabatteries.com/publi...cal_specs.html) It really confuses me. It looks like the starting battery gives quite a few more cranking amps, but the deep cycle really doesn't have much more reserve to offer.
I need someone with some battery knowledge to interput this info and guide me in my purchase. The fact that the starting battery isn't warrantied for deep cycle use, and yet in my application it would at times be used that way makes me think the three deep cycles are the way to go.
Thanks
Where is HH when you need him?
Where is HH when you need him?
I know, when he's moderating he's Johnny on the spot!!Plus, since the dreaded 6V subject didn't come up you would think he would be happy.
...you would think he would be happy.
I don't think that bitter son of a bitch is ever happy.
As far as batteries, it sounds like you've got exactly what you need now. Matching them closely is only necessary when they are in series.
If it's meeting your needs, I'd stick with what you have.
Here is the link to the Optima site that gives the specs on the marine batteries. Optima specs (http://www.optimabatteries.com/publi...cal_specs.html) It really confuses me. It looks like the starting battery gives quite a few more cranking amps, but the deep cycle really doesn't have much more reserve to offer.
I need someone with some battery knowledge to interput this info and guide me in my purchase. The fact that the starting battery isn't warrantied for deep cycle use, and yet in my application it would at times be used that way makes me think the three deep cycles are the way to go.
Thanks
My advice on the batteries is to just go buy 3 blue tops.. Put the switch to All and leave it there. LOL.. I'm sure there's pro's and con's to that, but I've been leaving my switch to all for years with zero issues.. At the point my bass amp clips though, I can still start the boat so if I hear the stereo clip, I just shut it off and let someone else handle the sandbar DJ duties for awhile, then charge them up when I get home.
When you get your new batteries I know where you can get some cool new Optima battery boxes for pretty cheap.
The latest Rev of the Optima Battery Box (Yellow/Red/Blue Top)
http://www.riverratlife.net/dave/ima...4/DSC00021.JPG
RD
I don't think that bitter son of a bitch is ever happy.
As far as batteries, it sounds like you've got exactly what you need now. Matching them closely is only necessary when they are in series.
If it's meeting your needs, I'd stick with what you have.
They seem to be meeting my needs, but it is time to replace them, and wanted to make sure I was getting the most bang for the buck.
They seem to be meeting my needs, but it is time to replace them, and wanted to make sure I was getting the most bang for the buck.
If I was replacing them, I'd definitely stick with the non-deep cycle for a starting battery. IMO, the Optima is a great choice there.
If you're happy with the battery performance for the stereo then there's no need to switch brands. It sounds like there are some better choices though, including a single 8D format battery. You might want to search the audio forum if you haven't already read those threads.
Personally, I'm a big Optima guy. I've had amazing luck with them. That's not to say they are the best, only that I like them and I've had great experience with them.
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