I am on a couple of boating lists and the discussion of deep cycle batteries
comes up occasionally.
The best value for the money is the Trojan golf cart battery, it comes in
6v and 12v. Most people like the 6v. because the plates are a bit thicker
and they tolerate abuse better, but the 12v can be cycled deeper than any of
the other lead acid batteries. There is one better battery AGM I think, but
not sure.
It is better, but it is over twice the cost and won't last longer.
The Optima's can't be cycled as deeply as the Trojans without destroying
them in short order.Most deep cycle batteries claim that you can take them
to 50% of their capacity, but the truth is once you use over 30%you are
shortening the life of the battery.
The Optima's are very good for starting and other cold cranking high amp
applications that are more intermittent, this might also include launching
sailplanes! Just don't cycle them too deeply or you will have an expensive
plastic box of lead.
Mark Mech
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
www.aerofoam.com
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