looking for a trolling motor

[Ca_Bass]

I'm looking for a 12v or 24v foot control trolling motor. I figured this would be as good a place as any to ask. Mine is starting to fall apart and I need to replace it.

Also I'm looking for an answer to a few questions, maybe someone here can help me out...

1) If I run two batteries in parallel for a 12v trolling motor do I need two of the same batteries?

2) If I run two batteries in series for a 24v trolling motor do they need to be the same battery?

3) Or can I get away with running two different 12v batteries in both applications?

Thanks for the help.

[roadwarriorsvt]

As long as they are both 12V and both deep cycle, you'll be good to go. I'd highly suggest getting a "Battery Tender" trickle charger to keep the batteries topped off. They only turn on when the voltage drops below a predetermined point so there is no over-charging. I recently got a .8 amp model from Ace Hardware in Wahiawa. They sell 3 or 4 different models.

[Bozu]

If you want to run a 24 volt trolling motor, the batteries should be the same. Usually, deep cycle marine batteries are Group 24 or Group 27, the latter being a bigger heavier battery i.e., more lead plates to produce a longer running time. Use 2 12v (new) batteries of the same Grouping and make sure the Cold Cranking amperage is the same. The battery with the lower CCA will take the bulk of the amperage draw if you mix them and will eventually wear out, or rather build up sulphur on the plates quicker. The lower CCA battery will go kaput sooner than the higher CCA battery. Ideally, you want to replace the 2 12v at the same time to maintain a even charging and discharging cycle.

Your trolling motor, flashlight, RC toy etc. anything that runs on batteries will only run as efficiently as the weakest battery in the chain. One new D cell battery (100% charge) added to a flashlight with an old D cell (50% charge) will only run at 50% efficiency. It won't average out to 75%.

Are you looking for more power or a longer running time for your trolling motor ?

Bozu

[Ca_Bass]

With my current set up with a 12v trolling motor I would like longer run times..I have 2 12v batteries one I believe is a group 24 and one a 27 not sure about the CCA I will check. If I end up getting a 24v it would be the same issue. Neither of the batteries are new and probably nearing their ends anyway so I guess I could run them in parallel without much consequence on my 12v trolling motor. Thanks for the help...if I end up getting a 24v motor I will definately purchase two new identical batteries.


Wish they mad lipo trolling motor batteries like I have for my rc cars