[C320-list] New Batteries

[jim brown]

Not sure the lighter batteries would help the port list we all seem to have. Did the article take into account the cost of possibly having to change out the standard alternator and the dock side charger with the use of lithium batteries? That may tip the balance (pun intended) back in favor of the AGM;s or even the old standby lead acid technology. 


Jim Brown



________________________________
 From: Simon Rock <simonrock at gmail.com>
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com 
Sent: Tuesday, August 7, 2012 4:33 AM
Subject: [C320-list] New Batteries
 
Hi,
Here we go again - batteries for boats.
Now, you all know that I believe that boats deserve good batteries, and the
use of golf cart batteries seems really silly.
In the past I have argued that the AGM batteries are the battery of choice
on boats. They have so many advantages that they make the golf cart
batteries look very unsuitable.
Well, has anybody looked at LiFe batteries?

A recent article in a sailing magazine put forward a very good argument for
their use as house batteries for yachts.
Why?
They are smaller, lighter, faster charging, better discharge, can handle
deeper discharge (70 to 80%), longer life and probably more.
But they are more expensive to purchase.
But, if you look at the cost over the total ownership period, then they come
out equal to AGM, and half the weight (helping stop the Catalina lean).

Now I know that Aussies love to embrace new technology, but has anybody in
the US looked at these as replacements for their old lead/acid batteries?


Simon Rock
Lake Macquarie NSW Australia

Cat375 #54 Rock The Boat
Cat375 #41 Rocket
Cat320 #1163 Rockstar

Experience The Whitsundays
www.cya.com.au