Copyright 4-1-06. All rights reserved, C-Dory Marine, Inc. Not to be copied, altered or distributed. 17
Revised 8/21/2007
Deep Cycle Batteries deliver low amperage draws for a prolonged period of time. They can
be run down almost completely and recharged without damage. They will also maintain voltage
until the battery is nearly dead. They are great for voltage sensitive electronics, fans, radar,
electric down-riggers, lights at night or any prolonged use of current when the motor is not
running. Deep cycle Batteries should not be used to start large outboard motors. A prolonged
heavy amperage draw will overheat the battery and the starter motor, possibly damaging both.
See your motor manual for starter motor requirements to determine if you may safely use a
Deep Cycle Battery to start your motor.
In most cases you can use a marine Deep Cycle Battery rather than a Cranking Battery. When
using a Deep Cycle Battery, be careful not to crank a hard starting motor for more than 30
seconds without giving the starter and the battery a minute to cool and rest.
Servicing Batteries
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Keep batteries charged at all times. Replenish water as required.
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Use only distilled water. Never put salt water in your battery, it will produce chlorine gas.
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Keep the terminals clean and tight at both ends.
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Be very careful about removing and reinstalling batteries. Many electrical components can
be severely damaged by reverse current.
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As there may be many connections to the battery, carefully label each wire do you can be
certain of being able to reconnect everything the way it was.
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Never disconnect the battery from the motor when the motor is running. The motor’s
electrical system may be severely damaged.
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Do not smoke around the battery compartments. Batteries produce hydrogen gas.
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Battery acid will damage metal and fabrics (like your clothing).
Charging your batteries
You can charge your batteries with a trickle charger once in a while will help keep them in top
shape. A trickle charge may take up to 24 hours. Charge your batteries before going on a trip
or if you have not used the boat in the last 30 days. Check the water levels in your batteries
often, especially the Deep Cycle battery. If you use a boost charger, do not exceed 50 amps,
nor boost for more than 20 minutes. Most battery problems are the result of neglect or the
battery has exceeded its service life. Consider a built in battery charger for convenience.
Caution:
When battery charger is in use the battery switches must be turned to 1, 2 or off!
Never on BOTH! The charger does not charge when battery switch is on BOTH
Battery Chargers & 110 Volt AC
See inset on wiring diagram for details on typical wiring for battery chargers. Installation of a
battery charger requires an 110V 15Amp service to the boat. The simple system shown on the
insert does not provide circuit protection, except for a ground fault outlet. This system must be
connected to a circuit protected 110V power source (such as any household duplex outlet).
When using a battery charger, pay close attention to the water level in the batteries.
Note:
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All Power feeds from the batteries must have fuse protection installed in-line within 50”
of the battery.
