on board chargers

[meathunter]

I was going to buy a onboard charger for my boat my question i have a 12/24 volt trolling motor 2 deep cycle batteries can i hook a 3 bank charger up to my starting batt that is not a deep cycle? I would have to extend the wire on the charger about 12 ft to reach my starting battery. I am looking at the cabelas advanced angler chargers that distribute the voltage to whatever battery needs it. I had a minnkota charger and it worked for a couple years but never charged my batteries even. It no longer works. Any comments would be great!

[Ralph Wiggum]

...can i hook a 3 bank charger up to my starting batt that is not a deep cycle?

Definitely. It's a good idea to keep your starting battery topped off--it will last longer.

[delmuts]

Many/most, three bank chargers are designed for that. I love the fact knowing when i have three green lights, ALL of my batteries are charged!

[PerchJerker]

I agree with the others, if you have an on-board charger you should have each of your batteries connected to it. And you can lengthen the lead to get to your starting battery, that is very common --- just make sure you use heavy enough wire to handle the current drop. You might want to look at Dual Pro chargers, they have a great reputation and lots of guys think they're the best. Hope that helps.

[delmuts]

1 Vote for a Dual Pro. The customer service was great when i called to find out what gage wire to use to extend one of the leads, plus the trouble shooting section in the manual is actually usefull!( trust me i know! )

[Drew]

Avoid the advanced angler chargers from the big C. Stick with a Dual Pro, batteries will last longer, better performance all around. An SS3 is what you should be looking at. Might cost a bit more upfront but it's worth it.

[Hookmaster]

+2 for Dual Pro. I am still using the 2 bank one I bought in 1995. No mounting restrictions either.