[C320-list] Starting Battery

[Warren Updike]

The group number is only a code describing the physical size of the case.
In as much as size will determine how much lead can be packed in it has some
effect on the capacity.  However, the number and thickness of plates, and
composition of the chemicals is what determines the charge/discharge
characteristic (starting or deep cycle.)  Also, there is a difference
between Low maintenance and No maintenance batteries.  

I bought a low maintenance, large capacity auto starting battery at Sam's
Club for about $60.  I think it has about 800CCA. I've never added any
water. It has never had to do much work so it never needs much of a charge.
It's now 5 years old.

Warren & Pattie Updike
1994 C320 #62 "Warr De Mar"

-----Original Message-----
From: Donald Lawson [mailto:dnclaws at aol.com] 
Sent: Tuesday, August 23, 2011 6:00 PM
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Starting Battery

I plan to purchase a spare starting battery, as added insurance for an
upcoming offshore trip. I intend to install it permanently this winter as
described in the C320 website.  I used a group 24 on my old 2GM20 to start.
Is this acceptable or should I use a group 27? Anything bigger is overkill
nor do I expect to purchase it from West Marine. Any recommendations?
Don L. #1005