Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos

Posted by rockyrhodes on 06/08/15 - 5:37 PM

I have a 2004 Montauk 170 with a 2015 90HP HO Evinrude etek. Two batteries are wired to the selector switch that came standard with the boat (1,2,both). I need to replace one of the batteries. I use bat-1 on odd numbered days and bat-2 on even numbered days never "both". Any suggestions on battery selection?

Posted by jgortva on 06/09/15 - 6:03 AM

There are a million different opinions on this and boat batteries can range from $59.95 to 599.95. After 20 years of boating and replacing boat batteries from a 15 ft to a 36 ft boat, I have come to the conclusion that for the price, Interstate Marine batteries are probably the best value. They have a cranking series if you are just using them for the engine and a few low amp draw accessories, (vhf, gps, fishfinder) and a great dual purpose cranking deep cycle if you have a trolling motor or just believe you will be out on the water for extended periods. Pricing was around $130 for 27 series dual purpose and around $100 for 24 series cranking. 24 series is standard on whalers so if you go for the dual purpose you will have to replace your battery box as they are a couple of inches wider. You can go on the net to find a dealer near you and some local Sams Clubs have a deal on them in the spring and early summer if you are a member.

Posted by gary0319 on 06/09/15 - 7:08 AM

I'll second the Interstate choice. I just replaced my Walmart battery (not a bad battery) with an Interstate 24MXHD that puts out 800 CCA and spins my 60 Merc 2 stroke like a top. About $100. I also bought the 7amp CTEK charger for $69 which is waterproof and has pig tails that mount right on the Interstate battery for easy hook up.

The Interstate guys at my Sarasota store were very accommodating and even did the swap out and hook up for free when I brought my Whaler to their parking lot.

Posted by Weatherly on 06/09/15 - 7:26 AM

Rockyrhodes: You have a brand new 2015 Evinrude E-Tec 90 H.O. outboard on your 2004 Boston Whaler Montauk 170. Your outboard alternator puts out 133 amps total with 50 net dedicated to engine functions. Why do you need a second battery? Your boat's standard configuration criteria has changed now that you have an E-Tec. Unless you want to light up your boat with an abundance of electronics, my opinion is get rid of the second battery. Do you really need a second battery with 133 amps generated from your 2015 E-Tec two stroke outboard?

Posted by Whalerbob on 06/12/15 - 7:38 AM

I really don't have a preference on brand but buy AGM. They cost a little more but for me have proved to last twice as long plus no maintenance, and no corrosive explosive fumes.