Another Battery and maybe an assault question...?

Wandering Sagebrush

It's getting time to replace the batteries on Constant Craving, and i am thinking about gel cells. I know that there has been some traffic about folks having issues with them over heating and failing, but I don't recall the specifics. Does anyone have direct experience with them?

I am also thinking about moving one of the batteries to the live well on the port side after thoroughly ventilating the well, plus adding a house battery that would sit under the dinette. The interior battery would have to be a gel to avoid the gassing issues. Anyone done either of the above?

BTW, I suspect the assault part might come from reviving this thread...

Regards,

Steve

breausaw

thataway · Posted: Mon Nov 05, 2007 10:28 pm Post subject:

Please understand the difference between AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) and Gel cell batteries. The AGM will tolerate 14.5-or so volts of charge. The Gel cell will only tolerate 14.1 volts of charge. The average outboard puts out over 14.1 volts. (My Suzuki's put out 14.4 volts, I have a Yahama which puts out 14.6 volts and a Honda which puts out 14.5 volts. If a gel cell is exposed to a voltage more than 14.1 volts it will be rapidly damaged.

You are correct that the AGM do not put out significant gas, if they are properly charged. AGM's will accept a charge faster than lead acid batteries. The new Sears Platinum Die Hards are touted to tolerate higher voltages. I have used Lifeline batteries, and they will tolerate outboards and even equalization at 15.5 volts for 8 hours.

I would suggest that you consider AGM's for your replacement--and you have one house bank and one engine start--perhaps two house if you need the increased amount of power.

I would agree that generally well cared for batteries will last 4 or more years. Do not discharge a battery to more than 50% capacity or below 12.2 volts. It is best to replace all of the batteries at once, and with like types and sizes, so that the charges will be equal.