Recommended Amperage, 3x12v

[TruthWalleyes]

I'm going to replace my 3 12v batteries today with 3 new 27ah. Batteries are currently hooked up in parallel, and will be when i put in the new 3.

My question, What size charger would you recommend. 10A, 15A, 20A? And, how many hours would it take to charge 3 12v batteries, say half drained, with said charger?

Thanks for any input.

I don't think i'm interested in an Onboard.

Also, since i'm looking at a new charger, any brand recommendations for a charger that LASTS.

[Whoaru99]

Running the batteries to dead is VERY VERY hard on them. Actually, below 50% even shortens their life quite a bit.

The automatic battery chargers I've used won't start the cycle with deeply discharged or completely dead batteries. I have an old manual charger to bring them up a bit in that rare occasion.

[TruthWalleyes]

I hear ya on running them dead. I guess i'll use them as much as i want and if they go dead while on the water for 3 days then so be it...GOt a good deal on them interstates anyway.

I'm more concerned with the level at which the smart charger won't charge. Is it 25%, more or less? I didn't see it on the outside of the box, but will have to read instructions tonight to see if it specifies.

Dang it's warm today!

[TruthWalleyes]

This is a Raider charger 12/8/2 smart. $40. Nice small package. I may even install as an on board. I found it at FF, not what i was looking for but the price was right. We'll see if it lasts.

Manual says that if the charger goes into float stage (The final charging stage where battery is maintained)and a voltage of 13V is not achieved. The charger will recondition the battery. After reconditioning the battery, if a voltage of 10V is not achieved through 5 charging cycles then the battery charger will say replace battery...

So long story short. Anything that doesn't charge above 10v is a dead battery to the charger...That is one dead battery if it can't be charged up to 10V!!