I'm in the market for some new batteries. I've got 3+ solid years out of my set of Trojans. I am very happy with Trojan batteries...

Last time I bought batteries, I bought 3 identical Trojans that are the "big" size battery....I was told I could use one as a cranking battery, and the other two to power my 24 volt system....which has worked fine. My batteries just don't have the juice I'd like at the end of the day, and in the extreme cold lately, even my starting battery has been acting up...I've rotated them, and been good about maintenance....but I think I'm ready for new ones. I fish most weekends, and my boat stays on the charger during the week. I store my boat 20 miles from where I live...

Anyway, looking for some advice....

I am absolutely willing to pay top dollar for whatever the best solution may be. I'm considering the Optima style gel batteries, or just straight replacing my Trojans...

Anyone have any input or thoughts on my setup? I am not 100% sure having 3 identical Trojans (one for cranking and two for deep cycle is really ideal) although it has worked, is the best solution. I was given that advice by a Marine that sells and rigs a lot of boats....so....I have heard good things about the smaller gel batteries like the Optimas...but haven't really paid a ton of attention here. I would need to install new battery trays of course, going to a smaller battery, but if they are way better and blah blah blah, sure I'm all for it.

My boat has an onboard 3 bank charger.

Any feedback appreaciated!

MP

Matt, Put your question on bassboatcentral.com. Great forums on bass boats, and anything associated with them......BassMan

Matt the gel celled batteries will last longer with vibration and the pounding that they could take while running. The thing you need to look at when buying a battery is the reserve time. It will be on the tag where the model or group size is. It will be in minutes. Most of the larger size batteries have 140 minutes or so "reserve time". This is the rating running the battery under a decent load such as a trolling motor.

I have had decent success with my Optima (until it was stolen with the rest of my boat stuff a while back) and it seemed to hang in there as well as the larger batteries if not better. Now I have replaced them with Auto Zone brand and they have been good to me. A cheap alternative for a decent battery.