I currently have 2 batteries in my boat, start battery and acc. battery. I am looking for some info on what you guys think on a new on board charger? I am not sure if I will add a second battery in the future as not sure if 1 will last all day! thinking I need another? should I go with a 2 bank or 3 as the motor keeps the start charged? thanks for the help
I have two batteries in my boat and installed a two bank charger. The trolling motor has it’s own battery that also powers gthe front depth finder. The other battery starts the outboard and also powers everything else…depth finder, running lights, bilge pump, etc. I know there’s an alternator in the outboard, but there are times when I’m using juice faster than I can put it back.
For example, I fish the river hard in the fall. I’ll run for five minutes, get to my spot, and anchor. If it’s dark out I’ll have the navigation lights on. Half an hour later I run for another few minutes to the next spot and fish there for a while. In the long run, I sit there and draw power from the battery a lot more than I run the outboard and put it back. With the on board charger, I know my starting battery is topped off and ready to go.
SR
Depends on your usage. I have a starting battery plus a two more on a 24v system.
I regularly run 15 minutes each way so I use a 2 bank on the 24v system because my main starting battery gets plenty charged throughout the day.
I’m a big proponent of having a bank for your starting battery. I don’t think most outboard rectifiers will keep your starting battery topped off unless you are running around a lot. It’s good peace of mind to know that your starting battery has a full charge each time you leave home, and it will extend the life of your battery, too.
Not much cost going from 2 to 3 banks.
I like Ralph have a charger on each battery.
I’m a big proponent of having a bank for your starting battery. I don’t think most outboard rectifiers will keep your starting battery topped off unless you are running around a lot. It’s good peace of mind to know that your starting battery has a full charge each time you leave home, and it will extend the life of your battery, too.
There is that difference too. My outboard has a separate belt driven alternator capable of 60 amps output when cruising instead of the typical stater under the flywheel.
Without an alternator I might want a third bank.
Get the 3 bank charger. I’m glad I did just for the fact I’m able charge someone else’s battery when up at the cabin.
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