I have a pair of Duracel (Deka) AGMs in mine and they seem to do very well and require no maintenance. Last set of Blue tops went 5 years before I replaced them and they still seemed fine then.
As far as separate charging, I have not gone down that road as it is just one more thing to hook up even though it may be the right thing to do. I use one of those expensive battery minders and have never had an issue ever but I understand the pros and cons. Until it bites me I will continue with what works.
The best thing I have found to solve most battery emergencies is the portable jump starters. I did my research at the time and ended up with the Antigravity brand. The one I have will start a diesel pickup and fits nicely in the glove box. I have tested it numerous times and am amazed how well wit works. To satisfy my curiosity I disconnected one of my batteries and hooked up the Antigravity powering up the whole boat. It started my 300 without hesitation no less than 5 time in a row. While idling on it everything appeared normal at the helm. I no longer own any jumper cables and have one for every vehicle we own.
__________________
[b]The Moose is Loose !
|