bad battery?

[smallies24]

Had my 12V deep cycle battery on the charger the other day and fluid was escaping out from the caps on top. The charger recognizes a fully charged battery and quits/or is s'posed to quit charging then. So is this battery toast or what? I cleaned it off and it ran the trolling motor fine but I'd prefer not messing around with a battery that leaks. Any thoughts?

[18 inch Crappie]

How old id it? Sounds like it may be bad. Batteries should last 4 or 5 years or longer if cared for right. Sounds like you may need to go shopping, if it leaks in your boat, and if it goes bad while on top of some great fishing you will never forget yourself. For the $50-$80 to replace it go for it. A leaking battery is not a good sign.

[Guest]

While on topic - I bought my boat with trolling motor, without battery. So what battery do you suggest. I don't mind paying a little extra for a good battery.
Thanks - FB

[18 inch Crappie]

http://www.optimabatteries.com/products/marine/index.asp

[ChuckN]

I love my Napa Orbital batteries. No maintenance and good warranty. I run a 24V Minn Kota AP and the power goes all day long on windy days.

I put one of these batteries in my Otter Lodge in the winter to power lights, cell phone, radios, etc.. and if they tip over there's no worry as they are completely sealed. They are also much more resistant to vibration for longer life.

[IFallsRon]

Had you recently put distilled water in the battery? If you had put too much water in, it's normal for some amount to "boil" out during charging. I'd take the battery some place and have it checked to see if you have a bad cell. I've had it done at Fleet Farm garage area and I know that Batteries Plus does it, too.

[Guest]

Thanks for the trolling battery pointers.
FB

[1DIRTBALL]

I've got a 31 series Trojan. That thing is awesome and unstopabble.(If there is such a word) I got mine at a Battery's Plus store not far from Northtown in Spring Lake Park. It cost me $105.00 and is worth every penny!

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YOU CAN'T talk AN OLD talk'ER!

[Surface Tension]

Sounds like your charger isn't tapering down and boiling your battery.

My advice is to get 115 or better amp hour with extended warranty.

[smallies24]

thanks for the replys...think it's time for a new one.....s'pose I can always hang on this one for an ice shack battery.

[Surface Tension]

smallies24, I would look at replacing the charger not the battery.

[18 inch Crappie]

Smallies24, If you are wanting to not spend a lot of money, just saw Wallmart has Everstart boat batteries at a very good deal. Lund even has them in there 2004 boat catalog