I have seen and read about inflatable PDFs that can be worn in a small pack around the waist when they aren't in use--they are inflated by pulling a cord. They sound really great, but I was wondering if anyone has an opinion and/or experience with them. I've checked them out on-line, and they go for at least $60, based on what I have found.
I know I should wear a PDF when I'm in my boat, but I find vest-style life jackets bulky and irritating. So, I never wear one, even though I have come closer than I like to admit to being swamped or falling out of my boat on several occasions.
I just figured that it is easy enough to just get a 3 bank so when the boat is not in use I can keep all 3 batteries charged. I have not bough a charger yet, maybe I will give it some more thought.
Edit: After thinking this over, with the size, weight, and heat output of the charger (as well as the cost) I think it makes sense to just
buy a 2 bank charger, I have a smaller charger i can use on the starting battery when the boat is sitting at home. Forgive me, for i am a retired engineer and I have to obsess over everything...
Congrats on the motor! I think you’ll like it.
I can’t say much on the charger location but I’ve seen them under the lid in back compartments and under center rod lockers. 160 degrees is more than I expected to hear.
Curious why you’re opting for a 3 bank charger with a 24V trolling motor. Unless you don’t feel you be running you big motor enough to keep that battery up as well?
I did buy an Minnkota Ulterra, thanks for the recommendations. I had a bunch of Cabela"s bucks saved up, which helped. Now i need to
get an onboard battery charger. Where do you guys mount these things in your boat? The manufacturer I am looking at {Noco genius)
says tht their 3-bank charger will run at 160 degrees, seems like a lot of heat in an enclosed compartment? Thanks for any input on this.
Wasn't terrible at a state park beach. Antelope island maybe. I wouldn't recommend it as a beach destination tho. Figured I was there, I'm getting in it.
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JIvers
I have seen and read about inflatable PDFs that can be worn in a small pack around the waist when they aren't in use--they are inflated by pulling a cord. They sound really great, but I was wondering if anyone has an opinion and/or experience with them. I've checked them out on-line, and they go for at least $60, based on what I have found.
I know I should wear a PDF when I'm in my boat, but I find vest-style life jackets bulky and irritating. So, I never wear one, even though I have come closer than I like to admit to being swamped or falling out of my boat on several occasions.
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