batteries

jands1099

should we use both batteries on our 2013 2200 sundeck OB at the same time or should we  alternate them?

nquirk

If its a dual battery single switch configuration, I'd alternate them so that the primary isn't used all the time.   Does it have a switch which shows 1, 2, both, off?  

nquirk

Your primary should be 1, secondary 2.  However it depends on how it was setup from the dealer.  Some use two equivalent deep cycle batteries.  Others may use a starting as the primary and a deep cycle for the secondary.

Each battery should have a CCA (Cold Cranking Amp) rating on them.  If they're the same, then you can interchange them to cycle using them for starting.  If one has a higher CCA rating, then that will be your primary starting battery and you should use it all the time.  In this configuration, they most likely have it wired to start from the primary and draw power for accessories, etc from the secondary.   You wouldn't need to switch batteries unless you found yourself stranded on the water and it wouldn't turn over.  At this point you could use the 'both' setting to draw from both batteries at the same time.

Hope this helps.

jands1099

yes it has that switch, but how do you know which one is the primary?

nquirk

I moved this thread to the Electrical Discussions section

jands1099

thanks that answer helped a lot

bshippjr

nquirk, following up on this topic, I have an Optima blue top dual purpose battery which I use for starting, and a Walmart deep cycle battery.  My practice has been to put the battery switch on "both" once the engine starts to recharge both batteries.  You mention alternating batteries.  Do you mean for starting only or alternating batteries each time the boat is out?

nquirk

@bshippjr, there is nothing wrong with the way you're using them.  If you have a starting battery, continue to use it for starting.  My alternating suggestion is if you have the same battery and never draw from the second.  When you use 'both' you're drawing and charging both.