As recently as this past winter, solid-state batteries were touted as future tech poised to move electric propulsion rapidly forward. Jumping ahead a year, Honda ­announced limited production of these new-generation batteries sometime early in 2025. But, Boating had already tested solid-state batteries in the Electric Legacy, a classic runabout replica collaboration between Elco and Lancer Craft. So, what did we discover about this technology and how it might benefit you?

What Is a Solid-State Battery?

In most batteries, be they lead-acid or lithium, liquid electrolyte facilitates energy transfer between cathode, anode, and electrical equipment. ­Solid-state ­batteries still employ lithium, but the electrolyte is an ultra-thin solid coating. “The US government has been using solid state for 20 years,” says Tom Calef, founder and CEO of Solid State Marine. “The issue has been manufacturing. If that nano-thickness coating isn’t the same every time, you’ll have one cell that stores 100 watt-hours, and the next has only 10.” With those challenges overcome, Calef says his company now offers solid-state marine batteries at competitive prices in voltages and sizes common for marine applications.

What’s Better About Solid State?

Solid electrolyte coatings make solid-state batteries about half the weight of today’s lithium-iron-phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries for the same stored power. There is a bigger advantage though. “It takes a lot less energy to push through a solid material than it does a liquid,” Calef says. That reduced electrical resistance pushes power ­considerably faster from solid-state batteries into electric motors, while generating less heat in the exchange. 

That’s a game-changer: It gives electric-boat motors—and other high-draw marine electrical accessories—all the amps they need. This is especially critical when an electric-powered boat is climbing on plane. An analogy might be running your gas-powered boat with undersize lines or clogged fuel filters. Switching to solid-state batteries is like refitting the entire fuel system and tripling the flow. By starting with much lower resistance, solid-state batteries also continue to provide required amps through their entire capacity even as battery voltage drops and resistance climbs, Calef says, increasing usable watt-hours. Another fuel analogy? It’s like having a pickup tube 20 percent too short on your fuel tank but then getting a new one that goes all the way to the bottom.

Electric Propulsion Benefits

I assumed that an electric Lancer Craft might barely top 25 mph. Replacing gas-powered batteries with wet lithium ­batteries adds some 800 pounds to the original designed weight. That’s hard for a 20-foot runabout to overcome. Instead, the eight solid-state batteries—at 103 pounds each, plus Elco’s 205-pound motor and equipment—weigh 10 percent less than the GM small block, transmission, and full fuel tank. Less weight and more watts result in impressive hole shots and 35 mph top speed, albeit with less range than gas.

What About Other Applications?

In any application, solid-state batteries roughly double conventional LiFePO4 battery run time for the same weight. Both options—solid-state and LiFePO4—offer bigger gains when consolidating battery banks. In one example aboard a 32-foot SeaVee charter boat, Capt. Tristan Raynes replaced three 12-volt AGM 31 series batteries powering his Seakeeper 2. Just one fully charged 27 series battery from Solid State Marine rated at 210 amp-hours lasts an entire charter; in the past, with the three AGM batteries, he needed to run the SeaVee’s twin 300 hp Mercury Verado outboards continuously to power the Seakeeper 2. The boat’s aging LiFePO4 trolling-motor batteries were also ripe for upgrade. Raynes’ Minn Kota 36-volt trolling motor required three conventional LiFePO4 batteries, which didn’t always last all day. Now, just one 31-series solid-state battery increases run time by 20 percent. Today’s newest LiFePO4 batteries offer similar consolidation. “I replaced six batteries with just two and took 400 pounds off the boat and added capacity,” Raynes says.

Longevity and Charging

Calef expects similar lifespans for both solid-state and conventional lithium batteries, retaining 95 percent capacity after 1,500 cycles and 75 percent after 2,500 total cycles. That’s a full discharge every day for seven years. Most ­off-the-shelf lithium-battery AC chargers are compatible with Solid State Marine batteries; Calef mentions NOCO and Victron as examples. 

Calef also sees safety gains. Though today’s conventional LiFePO4 marine batteries have enjoyed a remarkable safety record to date, it is conceivable that a pierced LiFePO4 battery could ooze electrolyte that could create shorts and overheat the cells, potentially causing a thermal chain reaction. The solid electrolyte in a solid-state battery won’t leak, thus preventing a short if pierced. Of course, large power sources are problematic around seawater, and salt water contacting lithium directly in any battery type creates volatile hydrogen gas.

Calef sees boat systems moving steadily toward lithium. “In so many applications, lithium technologies are dramatically better in storing electrical energy than lead,” he says. “With solid-state batteries, we’re bringing more of the benefit of lithium to the ­boating market.”

The post Solid-State Batteries for Boaters appeared first on Boating Mag.

Removing and replacing batteries from boats is an age-old challenge. Batteries are heavy, and they are often housed in small spaces. This combination can make it difficult to handle batteries for DIY boat owners. In this piece, we aim to provide some insights for installing and removing batteries that prove safer and easier for you. These tips are not intended to be universal. Situations vary. Take what you need, and leave the rest.

OEM Straps

Many batteries come from the factory with a strap attached. These straps usually snap in on the sides of the battery. You’ll see the molded-in slots if your boat battery originally came with a handle. The handles are often removed for installation in a boat in order to make more room for cables. ­Unfortunately, this can make battery removal from a tight space difficult. Know that you can buy such battery handles on the internet via eBay and other sites. Search your battery make and model. You also might be able to get some for free from the battery maker, the battery seller or your boat dealer. Just ask.

Battery Carriers

There are a variety of devices—most often called battery carriers—available from tool stores, auto stores and home centers. These can be used if the handle is missing, or for batteries that have molded-in recesses on the sides for handholds that don’t work well in confined spaces where a two-handed grip on the sides can’t be achieved. Some of these are rigid handles. Others are straps. What these devices have in common is that they grab or hook under a protruding lip or ridge at the top of the battery. When you go to lift, the weight of the battery itself helps provide a good connection to the battery. Be careful that a metal carrier does not touch the battery terminals. Also, do not use any carrier designed to lift the battery by its terminals.

Drop Your Pants

Even if the allotted space is so tight that you can’t fully lift the ­battery, the ­ability to partially lift a ­battery can be combined with a push or a pull, making all the difference in handling batteries aboard boats. This happens to be the situation aboard my own boat. The hatch opening is not big enough to get two arms through at the same time. Furthermore, the batteries sit below the level of the hatch opening. I could “one-arm” the group 24 batteries originally installed. When I repowered with an engine requiring larger batteries, I could no longer apply enough strength to remove the battery with one arm extended inside the hatch. There’s plenty of room in the compartment; it’s just that the hatch opening is tight. Anyway, by tilting the battery forward and looping my pants belt around and under the aft part of the battery, I can use one hand to pull on the other ends of the belt outside the opening while lifting in the opening with the other hand. In this way, I can move the battery to a halfway position in the hatch opening. From there, ­Robert’s my father’s brother.

Read Next: AGM vs. Lithium Batteries

Relocation

In many cases, as boaters repower with newer engines, more battery power will be required to run the advanced electronics inherent. Sometimes the original location of the batteries in the boat simply might not be big enough—or offer large enough access—to install the appropriate battery for the engine. In these cases, it might be better to move the batteries. If this is the solution you need to employ, be sure to upgrade your battery-cable size. Longer runs means increased resistance, which means you need thicker-­diameter cable to achieve the same performance.

The post Tips for Handling Batteries in Awkward Spaces appeared first on Boating Mag.

Boat batteries are the heart of it all. Whether used to power accessories or simply to start an engine, not too much happens aboard most powerboats without a battery. In today’s marketplace, boat owners are faced with an array of battery types to choose from. Traditional wet-cell and sealed lead-acid batteries compete with absorbed glass mat batteries and those using one of a few lithium chemistries to store and provide electricity.  

This article compares AGM batteries to lithium batteries to help you know what to look for when buying batteries for your boat.

AGM Defined

Absorbed glass mat batteries are the most advanced type of lead-acid battery. AGM batteries hold a charge longer, can charge faster, and require less maintenance than traditional flooded-cell lead-acid batteries.

Lithium Defined

We are focused on batteries using lithium-­iron-phosphate (LiFePO4) chemistry, not the smaller lithium-­ion batteries found in phones and computers. LiFePO4 batteries can hold much more charge for their weight compared with AGM batteries, and they can utilize that charge down to almost zero percent. The depth of discharge (DoD) of an AGM battery is somewhere between 50 and 80 percent, and they are usually used for starting and deep-cycle applications.

Cost

AGM batteries cost less per amp, or per “battery size,” than lithium batteries. For example, an average current price for a 100-amp-hour LiFePO4 battery is about $700, whereas the same size AGM battery can be purchased for about $400. However, because a LiFePO4 can use more of its charge before needing to be recharged, that comparison is not completely fair. Still, AGM batteries are much less expensive and will start your engines and power your marine accessories, just not for as long or as many amps. High-draw accessories such as trolling motors do make the case for lithium batteries.

Read Next: How to Install a Wireless Marine Battery Monitor

Charging

AGM batteries can be charged by many typical marine battery chargers and marine engine alternators. While AGM batteries definitely benefit from a charging system optimized for their chemistry, even much of the older equipment already in the field is likely to charge AGM batteries. LiFePO4 batteries require a special charging system. Unless you have a new engine or a special alternator installed, most older marine engines won’t charge them. LiFePO4 batteries will charge in about half the time, though, if the proper charging ­system is in place.

Self-Discharge

The rate at which a battery loses charge just sitting in disuse is self-discharge. Old wet-cell batteries may have lost 10 percent of charge per month to self-discharge. AGM batteries self-discharge at about 1 to 3 ­percent per month. Use your boat once a month, at least, and finding a dead battery to self-discharge will be rare to nonexistent. Do note that LifePO4 batteries ­self-discharge at about 0.5 to 3 percent per month, an even slower rate than AGM ­batteries.

Lifespan

Battery life depends a lot on the application and owner care. Two different boaters might get two different lifespans from identical batteries. Lithium batteries, by their nature, should last longer, ­however, and ­deliver about 1,000 ­discharge cycles. New, advanced AGM batteries, such as Odyssey AGM2 batteries from EnerSys, are rated at 400 discharge cycles to 80 ­percent DoD and offer plenty of ­engine-­cranking capacity. When ­shopping, balance ­LiFePo4’s longer lifespan and higher cost against the lower total cost of ownership of AGM batteries.

Weight

AGM batteries weigh more than LifePO4 batteries, but, unless you need a large bank of batteries to power a trolling motor, a powerful audio system, or some other high-draw appliance, the weight difference might be negligible. Many boaters get all their battery needs served by two or three batteries total on the boat. Start getting into four and six (and more!) battery banks, and then the weight difference does become meaningful.

Conclusion

So, will AGM batteries do the job for your style of boating? If you are not running high-amperage accessories such as trolling motors and powerful audio amplifiers for long periods of time, then the answer is yes, AGM batteries will serve you well and at a lower purchase cost versus lithium.

The post AGM vs. Lithium Batteries appeared first on Boating Mag.

Lithium batteries have opened up an entirely new category of electrical power for boats. That is due to their energy density, allowing a lithium battery to pack in as much voltage and amps as a lead-acid battery but at one-third to one-half the weight. They’ve been powering professional anglers’ trolling motors for years and, with an inverter, are increasingly common replacements for gensets. Because lithium batteries can recharge in much less time than lead-acid batteries, a short run of an engine’s alternator integrated with a DC-to-DC charger can quickly bring them to full power.

What Kind of Lithium

Lithium iron phosphate (­LiFePO4) is the chemistry settled upon by most battery-makers. Past ­formulas included cobalt and manganese for lithium-ion batteries. Though powerful, they proved hazardous. Runaway discharges caused fires that were inextinguishable—a poor trait in a boat or anywhere. 

Ground Control to ­Major Tom

Regular power updates from your batteries are essential. Some lithium batteries such as X2Power employ Bluetooth wireless communications to report discharge rate, battery temperature, state of charge and more to smartphone apps, bypassing a gauge, saving space on a tight helm. Others, such as Brunswick’s ReLiOn batteries, offer a battery gauge that reports data to an MFD. 

Wake-Up Call

If a ­LiFePO4 battery runs too low, it might ­require an intervention to wake it up—an electronic slap in the face. A shot of voltage wakes the battery management system, which reconnects the batteries so that it can be recharged. Such devices—basically a voltage-adjustable charger (5 volts to 36 volts)—are available for $25 at Amazon. Alternatively, Norsk and Brunswick’s ReLiOn LiFePO4 batteries have a button that wakes them from snooze. Some batteries optionally offer this feature.

Getting a Charge

Be sure the boat’s charge system is amenable to lithium. Some, such as JL’s Charge, can be set to lithium by the user. Others, such as Dual Pro chargers, have to be converted with a module that can only be factory-installed. So far, we haven’t seen onboard chargers that will “slap” their batteries. And they charge them in a different way than lead-acid batteries get charged. Typically, a charger such as Dual Pro and JL Marine’s Charge systems replenish higher-­voltage lithium trolling motors or house batteries through the cranking battery bank by converting cranking voltage to house voltage, which could be 24, 36 or even 48 volts. 

Read Next: Choosing a Lithium Battery for Your Boat

Long Payback Game

LiFePO4 batteries can be fully discharged and recharged up to 10 times more than lead-acid AGM batteries. So, even though they cost up to one and a half times the priciest AGM battery, they continue to deliver power long after AGMs give out, making them cheaper in the long run, also reducing installation charges. They can provide full power to the last amp (they can be discharged to 10 percent without damage when the battery management system shuts them down). Aboard my Ranger 2510 Bay, 60 amp-hours of 36-volt lithium power gives more fishing time than 100 amp-hours of AGM power of the same voltage. 

Cuts Weight

There are two ways to improve performance in a boat. One is to add more horsepower. The other is to remove weight. Take a bass boat with one lead-acid starting battery and three AGM trolling-motor batteries—the equivalent of two heavyweight boxers in the boat. Lithium batteries can cut that weight from 400 pounds to 150, adding speed and efficiency. 

Balance of Power

Note that a lead-acid battery’s weight might be factored into the center of gravity equation of your boat. If the boat is designed to carry battery weight forward and you install lighter lithium batteries, you might have to shift other gear forward, or choose a new prop, to manage the now lifting and falling bow. If the batteries are on the lateral centerline, the CoG won’t be disturbed. Most center-consoles are so arranged. But bass boats, bowriders and cuddies often don’t have space amidships. It might be wise to run such a boat after removing some of the batteries to get a feel for the lighter load.

Lowdown

LiFePO4 batteries are worth the initial money outlay, and the advantages far outweigh the risks. In a new-boat purchase, a set of LiFePO4 batteries could last 10 years—likely longer than your interest in the boat. On a used boat, changes to the boat’s weight can be mitigated and shouldn’t be cause to avoid this important, useful upgrade.

The post The Basics of Lithium Marine Batteries appeared first on Boating Mag.

Whether you fish freshwater or salt, inshore or off, or are powered by paddle or engine, trolling motors open many doors. Pairing your trolling motor with the right battery is the first step to unlocking these benefits. 

Getting it right ultimately means more fishing, less hassle and years of performance. Here’s our take on the best trolling motor batteries, no matter the need or circumstance.

Quicklook: 7 Top Trolling Motor Batteries

• Best lithium trolling motor battery: Dakota Lithium 36V 110Ah
• Best deep cycle trolling motor battery: Relion RB24V100 Lithium Iron Phosphate Deep Cycle Battery, 24V, 100Ah
• Best AGM trolling motor battery: Bass Pro Shops Power Series Deep-Cycle AGM Marine Battery
• Best trolling motor battery for 80 lb thrust: LiTime 24V 100Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery
• Best kayak trolling motor battery: Dakota Lithium 12V54Ah 
• Best 12v trolling motor battery: Relion Group 31 RB100 Lithium Iron Phosphate Deep Cycle Battery, 12V, 100Ah
• Best trolling motor battery on a budget: Goldenmate 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery

Best Trolling Motor Battery Options

Determining the best troll motor battery for you means choosing between power, size, shelf life and budget. Fortunately, these days there are good trolling motor batteries for every person and type of boat and budget. 

Dakota Lithium 36V 110Ah

The Dakota Lithium 36V 110Ah is a beast. It’s large enough to power trolling motors all day, delivering the thrust you need to fish hard. Delivering 200% of the power of traditional batteries, it weighs half as much, charges up to five times faster and can last up to eight times as long as other types of trolling motor batteries. 

Best for: Lithium batteries

Features:

• 11-year warranty
• Delivers full power throughout its charge, as opposed to other battery types that deliver less power as their charge decreases
• With 36 volts, this battery provides lots of power output for a long time 

Disadvantages:

• Relatively expensive
• Its large footprint makes it less than ideal for smaller boats 

Price: $2,299.99

Relion RB24V100 Lithium Iron Phosphate Deep Cycle Battery, 24V, 100Ah

Relion’s RB24V100 Lithium Iron Phosphate Deep Cycle Battery combines the benefits of a lithium trolling motor battery with the deep cycle battery’s long-lasting power. At 24 volts, it’s a great option for boat owners who lean heavy on the trolling motor. 

Best for: Deep cycle batteries

Features:

• Weighs 50-60% less than equivalent batteries of other types
• Provides up to 10 times the lifespan of lead-acid batteries 
• Rated to deliver 80% of stated charge, even after 2,000 cycles
• Low maintenance 

Disadvantages:

• It’s a lithium battery and it’s not cheap.
• 24 volts is a sweet spot for some boaters, but it’s not as small as a 12 volt or as powerful as a 36 volt.

Price: $1,224.99

Bass Pro Shops Power Series Deep-Cycle AGM Marine Battery

Available in three sizes, the Bass Pro Shops Power Series Deep-Cycle AGM Marine Battery delivers battery life, power, and on-the-water performance. It provides two operational modes: starting/cranking and deep-cycle. AGM batteries are a great choice for trolling motors. 

Best for: AGM batteries

Features:

• Warrantied for up to three years
• Ample reserve capacity 
• Available in three sizes
• Leakproof 

Disadvantages: Heavier than comparable lithium batteries

Price: $174.99-$229.99

LiTime 24V 100Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery

In the world of trolling motors, thrust is a function of voltage. 12 volt batteries, depending on their amp hour rating, generally provide between about 20 and 70 pounds of thrust. Offering 80 pounds of thrust, the LiTime 24V 100Ah LiFePO4 Lithium is a great choice for those needing a bit more out of their trolling motor batteries.

Best for: 80 pounds of thrust

Features:

• Lightweight and more portable than you might imagine
• High quality construction with automotive grade components
• Rapid charging

Disadvantages: Measuring 21 inches across, you won’t be able to squeeze this battery into cramped compartments. 

Price: $445.19

Dakota Lithium 12V54Ah

When you’re packing a trolling motor battery for your kayak, you need reliable performance in a compact, lightweight footprint. The Dakota Lithium 12V54Ah has this covered. Measuring roughly 8 inches by 9 inches by 5 inches, it’s tailor made for kayak fishing. 

Best for: Kayaks

Features:

• Charger included
• 11-year warranty
• Long lasting 

Disadvantages: It’s a lithium battery, and is priced as such. 

Price: $399.99

Relion Group 31 RB100 

The Relion Group 31 RB100 Lithium Iron Phosphate Deep Cycle Battery is a great option for anyone seeking a classic 12v trolling motor battery. Delivering an impressive combination of power and durability in a relatively compact footprint, it’s a lighter weight alternative to other forms of 12v batteries. 

Best for: 12v trolling motor battery

Features:

• Maintenance free
• Offers all of the benefits of a lithium battery
• More powerful than equivalent batteries of other type

Disadvantages: More expensive than other 12v battery options

Price: $629.99

Goldenmate 12V 100Ah

The Goldenmate 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery packs all the benefits of lithium trolling motor batteries into a price that’s affordable for many anglers. Featuring a long lifespan with low maintenance requirements, it offers stable, consistent power to your trolling motor. 

Best for: A trolling motor battery on a budget

Features:

• Up to 10 times the lifespan of other types of trolling motor batteries
• High and low temperature protections that prevent battery damage in extreme conditions
• Easy to recharge and maintain

Disadvantages: Weighing in at 55 pounds, this battery won’t be your lightest option. 

Price: $186.97

Assessing Your Marine Battery for Trolling Motor Options

The right trolling motor battery for you depends on a variety of factors, like your budget and the type of boat you own. 

• Capacity and voltage: A great first step to narrow down your choices is to check the manual of your trolling motor for battery specs. Generally speaking, the larger and heavier your boat, and the bigger your trolling motor, the more power you will need. 
• Weight and size: You’ll want batteries that can fit in the spaces on your boat, and are light enough to move if needed. 
• Lifespan and maintenance: Lithium batteries last a long time and require less maintenance, but are typically more expensive than alternatives. AGM batteries provide great performance with a lower price. Other types of batteries may be cheaper, but require more maintenance. 
• Cost and value: A higher-quality battery may cost more upfront, but can offer more reliability and runtime, and require fewer replacements over time. The cheapest options don’t necessarily offer the greatest value overall.
• Charging time and convenience: Batteries with shorter charging times may get you out on the water faster, but the convenience may come at the cost of capacity. Find out whether the ones you’re considering are compatible with onboard chargers or solar panels if you want the option to extend your trips.
• Safety and environmental concerns: Robust safety features protect you from hazards like overheating and acid leaks. Environmentally friendly lithium-ion and AGM batteries reduce the risk of pollution and align with eco-conscious boating practices.

Choose Wisely to Meet Your Needs

Modern trolling motor batteries have come a long way over the last decade, both in terms of performance and longevity. Incorporating their benefits into your setup can help you catch more fish, and make your time on the water more carefree. 

Given the wide variety of marine batteries now on the market, the task of narrowing down the options may seem overwhelming. From our perspective, you can’t go wrong with any of the recommendations on this list.

FAQ

The post What Is the Best Trolling Motor Battery for Your Needs? appeared first on Boating Mag.

Why choose ODYSSEY batteries? Are they worth it? How long do they last? Where can you find them? The Internet has questions, and Captain Don Dingman, Jacksonville charter captain, TV host and longtime ODYSSEY battery ambassador, has the answers. Captain Don serves as our search engine, schooling us on why ODYSSEY batteries are his go-to battery. With 2x the power, 3x the lifespan, and unmatched reliability, the choice is simple.

To learn more or purchase your own, visit odysseybattery.com. 

The post ODYSSEY Battery: Ask the Internet appeared first on Boating Mag.

In the past, Boating has advised boaters to avoid the use of lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries in marine starting applications. But ReLiOn is rewriting that rule with its RB100-HP, the first and only LFP approved for use as a starting battery for a number of midrange to upper-range Mercury Marine outboards.

The RB100-HP is designed to serve as a dual-purpose (starting and deep-cycle) 12-volt ­drop-in replacement for a Group 31 lead-acid battery. Though the same physical size as a Group 31, it weighs about half as much as its lead-acid equivalent—a benefit common to all LFP batteries. 

However, unlike other LFPs designed only for deep-cycle ­applications, the RB100-HP’s ­battery management system (BMS) is programmed to produce the bursts of high energy needed to start marine engines. It can pump out 800 marine cranking amps for 8 seconds or more. Also unique to this LFP battery is the ability to safely accept the standard 12-volt electrical charge produced by the engine alternator. Other LFPs require specialized charging systems to safely and fully replenish their reserves.

The battery was built to complement the propulsion ­system, not vice versa, says Darren Massey with ReLiOn tech support. “The battery is designed to mimic a lead-acid, but with less maintenance and more reserve power,” Massey explains. The RB100-HP offers 178 percent more reserve capacity than a comparable lead-acid battery, and will accept an alternator charge up to 150 amps.

The RB100-HP is currently ­approved for starting Merc’s 2.1L 75 to 115 hp outboards, 3.0L 150 hp engines, 4.6L V-8 and 3.4L V-6 175 to 300 hp models, 2.6L L-6 200 to 400 hp outboards, 5.7L V-10 350 to 400 hp models, and 7.6L V-12 500 to 600 hp outboards. There are no MerCruiser inboards or sterndrive engines on the ­approved list.

Note that Mercury and ReLiOn are both owned by Brunswick Corp., so it is natural for these brands to work together in developing and certifying this new battery technology. But what if you don’t run one of the approved Mercury outboards? Can boaters use the RB-100-HP with engines from other brands?  

“We always advise boaters to check with their engine and boat manufacturer as to which batteries are approved for use with their particular models,” says Mara Rust, senior category manager for Power Systems at Navico, a ­division of Brunswick.

Whatever engine you run, keep in mind that a BMS in an LFP can shut down the battery if it senses danger such as a surge or voltage spike. This BMS feature is called “protection mode,” and it is one of the reasons for traditionally avoiding LFPs in starting applications. If a battery is shut off while an engine is running, it could fry the rectifiers in the alternator. However, the certified Mercury outboards will continue to run and remain undamaged if the starting battery is shut off for any reason, says Brad Taylor, product integration and technical specialist for Mercury. “The approved Mercury engines will protect themselves from this situation, known as a ‘load dump,’” Taylor explains.

Read Next: Installing a Lithium Battery System

Before you buy, install and use the BR100-HP to start a ­nonapproved engine from any brand, be sure to check with the engine builder to make sure you will not fry the rectifiers in your motor’s alternator if the LFP goes into protection mode.

The RB100-HP has three ­positive terminal posts and three negative terminal posts. “­Having six battery terminals versus two on standard batteries offers ­boaters more flexibility when connecting electronics as well as a motor to the battery,” says Rust, who notes that ABYC ­standards call for limiting the number of ring connectors to four per ­terminal stud. This LFP also boasts an IP67 waterproof rating, which protects the BMS for up to 30 minutes in depths to 1 meter.

Lithiums are known to last much longer than lead-acid batteries, but what kind of service life can you expect from a starting LFP? Since life expectancy will vary with use, Rust points to the 10-year limited warranty, which includes a three-year free replacement or repair period. The BR100-HP carries a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $999.95. To learn more, visit relionbattery.com.

The post ReLiOn RB100-HP Starting Battery appeared first on Boating Mag.

The new ProTournament Elite Gen 3 battery chargers from ProMariner use advanced thermal modeling with a tri-surface aluminum heat sink to deliver true-rated charging amperage for the fastest-possible recharge times.

This series also features an exclusive LED Charge Status AC Glow Plug. When ­connected to an extension cord, it illuminates three individual colors for charging (red), conditioning (orange) and auto maintaining (green). This eliminates the need to remove the boat cover, and climb into the boat or open a hatch to check the status. The same charge-­status ­colors are built into the waterproof, ignition-protected charger case. Five-stage phase charging includes charge, condition, auto-maintain and storage modes. Boaters can select charging profiles to match flooded-cell lead acid, AGM, and approved lithium-iron-­phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries. Safety features include dual inline waterproof fuses, as well as protection from reverse polarity, ­­overvoltage, overtemperature and overcurrent.

Read Next: Choosing a Lithium Battery for Your Boat

The multibank chargers in this series also feature distribute-on-­demand technology that automatically senses and delivers through the leads greater charging amps to the battery or batteries that are lowest in juice versus others than might not need as much of a charge.

The ProTournament Elite Gen 3 series includes six models ranging from two-bank to five-bank versions, with amp outputs spanning 24 to 50. Prices range from $339.99 to $699.99; walmart.com.

The post ProTournament Elite Gen 3 Chargers appeared first on Boating Mag.

A DC-to-DC charger uses excess engine-alternator current, typically redirected from the starting battery bank, to charge the house battery bank.

This can also be performed by an automatic charging relay (ACR) with a lead-acid house bank, but DC-to-DC chargers represent the best choice for marine lithium-iron-phosphate (LiFePO4) deep-cycle batteries for house banks and trolling motors. While an ACR simply parallels the starting and house batteries to share engine charging, a DC-to-DC charger converts that current to a multistage charging profile compatible with any particular battery chemistry for the best and fullest charge possible. Also, an ACR is not recommended with LiFePO4 batteries due to the high surface voltages when an engine is running or a separate AC battery charger is on.

DC-to-DC chargers are available from many brands, including Mastervolt, Minn Kota, ProMariner, Renology, Victron and others. For this project, we chose the Mac Plus 12/12-50 from Mastervolt. When configured as a DC-to-DC three-step charger, it uses 12-volt direct current from the starting bank, converts the current to a specialized charging profile, and delivers up to 50 amps of regulated voltage to a 12-volt house bank. 

The Mac Plus 12/12-50 will not drain the starting bank because it charges the house bank only when the starting battery is at or above charging voltages, such as when the engine is running or a separate AC charger is on.

While the Mac Plus 12/12-50 can be set up in a number of ways, this installation connects an Optima Bluetop M27D Series dual-purpose AGM ­­12-volt starting battery boasting 800 cold-cranking amps with an X2Power LiFePO4 deep-cycle 31 series 12-volt battery offering 125 amp-hours, used primarily to power the electronics and livewell pump aboard our project boat. Before you get underway, make sure to disconnect all batteries, always wear personal protection equipment, and remove any metal jewelry that can create a short circuit.

Skill Level: 2 of 5

Finish Time: Approx. 6 hours

Tools and Supplies

• Mastervolt Mac Plus 12/12-50 ($684.20; fisheriessupply.com)
• X2Power SLIL31-125DCM-BT 12-volt LiFePO4 battery ($1,099.99; batteriesplus.com)
• 6 AWG marine red and black cable ($2.79 per foot; westmarine.com)
• ⁵/₁₆-inch tin-plated copper lug rings for 6 AWG cable ($5.70 each; delcity.net)
• (3) Blue Sea Systems 285 series thermal circuit breakers ($38.61 each; amazon.com) or equivalent fuses
• Cable cutters and strippers
• Swaging tool or soldering kit
• Adhesive-lined heat-shrink tubing
• Smartphone with X2Power Bluetooth app
• Power drill and bits
• Wrench set
• Phillips screwdriver
• Marking pencil
• Personal protection equipment

Set the Dip Switches

The Mac Plus 12/12-50 must be dialed in for each application, house battery type and minimum voltage for the starting bank. Use the nine DIP (dual inline package) switches on the device. Which switches are turned on or off will depend on a number of factors, such as whether you are connecting a Mastervolt battery display or CZone system to the charger. A flow chart in the owner’s manual will guide you through this procedure, so read it carefully to ensure the DIP switches are set properly for your installation.

Tip: The house battery for this installation is an X2Power SLIL31-125DCM-BT 12-volt LiFePO4 battery with Bluetooth capabilities. Using the free X2Power app and a Bluetooth connection, boaters can access a range of information, including state of charge, discharge/charge rate, and time remaining at the current discharge voltage, all on a mobile device.

Install the Charger

Select a location that provides for circulation to help the charger stay cool. While it has an IP23 rating, the location should be as dry as possible. The charger is not ignition-protected, so avoid an engine compartment. If using the device to charge a lead-acid battery that might release fumes, do not install the charger above it. Using four 5 mm stainless-steel screws, secure the charger to a solid and flat vertical or horizontal surface in a manner that does not obstruct airflow and provides 4 inches of clearance on each side.

Run the Cables

The 12/12-50 requires three cables: one positive cable from the starting bank, one positive to the house bank, and one negative to a common ground. The owner’s manual calls for 6 AWG cable. Each of the positive cables should have a fuse or circuit breaker near the respective banks. To determine the size of the fuse or breaker needed, use the Blue Sea Systems Circuit Wizard at circuitwizard.bluesea.com. For this project, we used 70-amp circuit breakers that can also serve to turn off the circuits if necessary.

Connect the Cables

After routing the cables with chafe protection and proper support, swage or solder on a ⁵/₁₆-inch tin-plated copper ring terminal on each end and use adhesive-lined heat-shrink tubing to create a waterproof seal. Leaving the circuit open, connect the cables, starting with the positive between the battery banks and charger (starting bank to the “in” terminal, house bank to the “out” terminal). Then connect the common ground cable to the negative terminal on the charger. Ensure all connections are tight and secure.

Read Next: How to Install a Wireless Marine Battery Monitor

Test the System

On-water testing is the best way to judge the system from idle to cruising speed. If you have a Mastervolt display as part of the installation, use it to determine how well the 12/12-50 charges the house bank. The charger also has an LED to indicate state of operation. A solid green light means it is charging normally. Solid blue indicates it is in standby mode, waiting for parameters to be met before charging. Solid red means a possible error. Check the owner’s manual to learn the meaning of other flashing color codes.

Tip: Consider adding a Mastervolt EasyView 5 battery display ($374.99; westmarine.com) to your system. It plugs into one of two MasterBus ports on the Mac Plus 12/12-50, and the touchscreen provides readouts of key parameters, such as voltage and charging current. You can also plug in a Mastervolt-CZone drop cable on the Mac Plus to access NMEA 2000 formatted data for display on an MFD.

Voltage Choices

Mastervolt Mac Plus DC-to-DC chargers are available in a range of voltage combinations. For example, the 12/48-15 model can apply three-step DC charging technology to a 36- or 48-volt house battery bank, depending on the device configuration. This makes it an attractive choice for the growing number of boating anglers using 36-volt bow-mount trolling motors. All the Mac Plus units can be configured to charge lead-acid, flooded-cell, AGM or gel batteries, and lithium batteries.

The post Installing a DC-to-DC Charger on Your Boat appeared first on Boating Mag.

X2Power represents one of the leading brands in marine lithium batteries, and we gave one of its models a season-long test in a G3 V167T aluminum boat, fishing the lakes of central Michigan. It was a 31-series 100-amp-hour, 12-volt deep-cycle battery featuring lithium-iron-phosphate (LiFePO4) chemistry ($899.99; batteriesplus.com). In this test, we dedicated it to powering a Minn Kota Power­Drive 12-volt trolling motor with Spot-Lock.

We were delighted with several facets, including the light weight of 28.2 pounds (about 50 percent less than a comparable lead-acid battery), power delivery (it ran for two to three days without fading or needing a recharge), the fast-charging characteristics (it charged about four times faster than the old lead-acid battery), and the five-year free-replacement warranty.

We tested the battery in conjunction with the ­X2Power 7.5-amp battery charger ($129.99; batteriesplus.com), which did a great job of quickly bringing the battery to full potency once we set the charge mode to “lithium.” It can charge flooded-cell, gel and AGM lead-acid batteries as well.

Read Next: Installing a Lithium Battery System

Some X2Power batteries are now Bluetooth-enabled, allowing you to monitor state of charge and other functions with the X2Power app. Our test battery did not include the app, but we installed a Victon Energy SmartShunt 500-amp Bluetooth battery monitor ($130.90; amazon.com) to monitor the state of charge.

One caveat: These deep-­cycle batteries are not for use as cranking batteries and should be completely isolated from the engine-cranking circuit. Applications are limited to circuits for equipment such as trolling motors and marine electronics. Visit x2powerbattery.com to learn more.

The post X2Power Marine Lithium Battery appeared first on Boating Mag.