Onboard chargers

[birdswacker]

I need a 3 bank charger (1 starting batt. 2 trolling motor). Any pros-cons to any certain name brands?

[marine_man]

I'm a big fan or Dual Pro Chargers (triple bank in this case). They're pretty tough to beat and customer service, should have you have a problem, is second to none.

marine_man

[Wish-I-Were-Fishn]

On sale at Fleet Farm. Today is the last day, if they have any left.

[LMITOUT]

I have a three-bank Dual Pro and it does the job. Standard equipment in a Ranger boat, if that counts for anything.

[Esox_Magnum]

I have had Guest, Minn Kota and currently running a Pro Mariner that IMO is the best to date.

[Down Deep]

I've run a Guest and now a MnKota. Both were installed in new boats and have performed well in keeping the batteries charged and not causing harm to them.

[caseymcq]

I have a ProSport 20 Plus and I am pertty happy with that.

[Hookmaster]

If the charger has cooling fins, it's because it gets hot and needs to dissipate the heat. These may also have mounting restrictions. The Dual Pros only get warm and have no mounting restrictions. I've had mine for 9 seasons and still going strong.

[Matt C]

I've been pleased with my Guest. No issues thus far.

Do a search of this forum. This topic comes up alot. I think you find all the names out there, and none have had serious issues with people.

Get whats right for your set-up and budget.

[Wish-I-Were-Fishn]

Do you really need a 3 bank charger since the outboard charges the starting battery?

[Matt C]

No you probably do not. But for some, and me some times, its a 5 min run to the hole, 4 to 6 hours on that spot with your graphs and gps running...I'd add it up to insurance?

[marine_man]

Do you really need a 3 bank charger since the outboard charges the starting battery?

No, you don't really.

That said, if you can swing it, I'd go for it. The piece of mind to know that when you leave your place you have 3 fully charged batteries with little chance that you didn't bump the livewell pump switch or nav light switch on your way into the house is a big deal for me. I already spend less time on the water than I'd like to, and having to deal with a dead or low starting battery because I didn't charge it prior to going out would really drive me nuts!

marine_man

[Heartman]

MM, I'm with you on this one. I have a four bank charger which accomplishes the same thing. And, I feel good about it.