On-board Battery Chargers?

I am looking to buy an on-board battery charger. I have done some research but want to know what others have experienced and what brand they suggest. All thoughts are welcome.

Guest and Minn Kota appear to be the top two. They both have a good reputation. I do like the three year warranty on the Minn Kota chargers.

I purchased and installed a 3 bank auto MinnKota unit. No problems, works great, easy to install and use.

I installed a Minn Kota ( from Wade ) …… Even though the first one only lasted a month , Minn Kota happily replaced it and I have had excellant luck with it. Very easy to install and I think a very quality charger.

I had a 3 bank MinnKota and never had a problem. I have a 3 bank Guest on my new boat and it seems to have the same performance as the Minn Kota. One thing to keep in mind is where you are going to mount it and how much room you have. The Minn Kota’s are a little bigger unit and need a little more room than some other brands out there. Good luck.

I love my Minn Kota, no problems so far

I POSTED THE SAME ? 2 MONTHS AGO BOUGHT A 3 BANK CHARGER AND NEVER LOOKED BACKED. NEVER ANY ? IF CHARGED OR NOT PLUG IT IN AND THE LIGHTS TELL YOU THE REST.

Ben,

I was looking at the Guest type as they aren’t the linear type. Do you know what the amp rating is on your Guest model and how long does it typically take you to recharge?

I have a 4 bank MinnKota and never had a problem. I have also had a 2 bank with the same great results. When buying you want the most amps charging every battery. 10 amps per battery minimum if you can swing it get 15 per battery. anything 10 or more should charge in 1 – 5 hours max depending on use.

Yep. That MK345 is a good one if you want max output. It has a nice rebate right now too.

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When buying you want the most amps charging every battery. 10 amps per battery minimum if you can swing it get 15 per battery.

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If you aren’t guide fishing or a tournament fisher, stick with a lower amp rating. It will charge overnight, and with a lower amp rating it is better for the batteries. Furthermore, it will cost much less.

I run a 2 bank MinKota ( forget the number) but it recharges my batteries over night with no problems. I had a guest before both did great.

I have a Minn Kota 4 Bank still in the box I will dump for $200. I got it this spring and never used it. If interested give a holler.

I’ve been running a 3 bank MinnKota for 4yrs now and havent had any trouble at all. If it ever stops i’ll buy another

I run a 2 bank Dual Pro Charger. Never had a problem

Ron

I run a 4 bank DUAL PRO going on 5 years now with no problems…batteries or charger.

I have been told that there isn’t such a thing as a stupid question but what if I only have two or three batteries and buy a four bank charger? Do you just cap the extra plug?

I have done that also. It didn’t seem to hurt anything. At least you will have room to grow. For example: If you have too many electronics on you boat some day, you may want to parallel another battery with your starting battery for more longer lasting power. Then you wouldn’t need to buy a different charger again.
Just my $0.02!

You can double up two sets to one battery in most cases. Check with the manufacturer to make sure it’s safe for your charger.

Thanks for the quick responses. I do appreciate it.