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Mar 25th, 2008 Q&A

Submited by Tom McClean

I need new batteries for my walleye boat. The trolling motor system is 36V and my cranking battery is 12V. For my trolling motor batteries, I need a deep cycle with a minimum reserve of 120 (according to the boat manufacturer). I'm not sure what battery to choose.

Without a doubt, the size 31 OPTIMA BlueTop for both the trolling motor and cranking battery. This is what I have in my 21' Nitro bass boat and am very pleased. I fish over 200 hundred days a year and have absolutely no trouble at all. The deep cycle size 31's have more cold cranking amps (CCA) than other size 24 and 27 cranking amps with all the reserve capacity of a deep cycle battery to run the bigger depth finders and aerators all day long. (Answer provided by Edwin Evers).

Submited by Cory Mundwiler

How much do OPTIMA BlueTop batteries weigh?

A BlueTop D31M weights 59.8 lbs, while a D34M is 43.5 lbs. You can find the rest of OPTIMA battery specifications by going to “Specs & Tech” and clicking on “Technical Specs.” (Answer provided by Edwin Evers)

Submited by Tony Leone

I have 3 batteries on my boat, 1 cranking & 2 for the electric motor. My boat has a charger built in. I don't know the charge rate, but I see a red and green light while charging is taking place, and only a green light when charging is complete. With BlueTop batteries, can I leave the charge plugged in for extended periods of time, even after the signal that the batteries are done charging?

Yes, OPTIMA BlueTops will definitely work for your boat and your built-in charger. You can leave the batteries plugged in for an extended amount of time because the green light signifies that the charger is no longer charging. This is something I do very often – I leave my Nitro boat plugged in all winter. (Answer provided by Edwin Evers)

Submited by Anonymous

I live in Wisconsin, where we often have severe winter weather – even as cold as 15 degrees below. There is a lot of confusion in the boating world about off-season battery storage. What is your recommendation?

I have always recommended bringing the battery up to a full charge, disconnecting the cables, and leaving the battery in the boat. With an Optima, freezing is not an issue. Also, because Optima batteries are sealed, they will not emit corrosive gases into the battery compartments. It is a good idea to label your battery cables in the fall as well as clean all the connectors.

Information contained in this communication is of a general nature and is subject to change without notice. Information is not intended to provide professional advice or to take the place of licensed professionals. You are encouraged to consult with a licensed professional about your particular circumstance prior to acting on any of the information contained herein. OPTIMA Batteries, Inc., makes no warranties, express or implied regarding the accuracy of information contained in this communication, and assumes no liability for loss or, damage (including death) resulting from the use of information herein.

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