Time to replace Exide Orbital Deep Cycle battery

[Polidori]

I have two of these batteries in my 211 but I think one of them is on its last leg. If I replace it, should I be looking at an Optima?

[Stevemo14]

I wouldn't replace just one. I have owned Diesel Trucks for years now, and the first time i replace just one, it ended up killing them both. Always replace batteries in pairs.

As far as which type, i have had Optimas many times, and other AGMS. I couldn't really tell the difference.

[MLA]

What are your battery needs? Obviously one for cranking, but do you use the other bank as a house bank? Depending on the use, there are better AGM batteries for the money, then Optima, especially for a house bank.

Batteries wired in parallel or series in a permanent fashion, like in a diesel truck, become one large battery. So yes, you would want to replace both.In a boat with dual battery banks, it is not necessary to both for the same reason, but depending on their age and use, it should be considered.

[bturner]

You asked the holy war question and the haters are going to start hating. I went with Optma Blue Tops that are a hybred starting/deep cycle battery but one of the reasons I went with Optima's was mounting. I use these plates.....

https://optimatrays.com/collections/...gid-clamp-tray

They're just excellent in construction and ease of use. You'll pay for them but they're made here in Michigan (screw China) so you'll keep your purchase in the US and the money will go to help keep US workers employed and a small business open.

Just remember that if you go to AGM regardless of brand you'll need a GOOD charger that supports AGM batteries. The charger grandpa gave you that he bought in 1960 is not going to get it with AGM.

[Polidori]

Thank you to everyone who replied. My local Pep Boys has a sale on batteries so I picked up a new Optima Blue for $200 today. Tempted to also replace my other Exide AGM, but it’s still going strong so I think I’ll wait until it actually dies.

[windsurfnut]

Depends on your use. In our Ski Nautique I use an Optima Starting battery- as the boat is just used for skiing, its started and stopped all the time and its never left on for accessories etc.
On my performance runabout, I use 2 Exide Edge Marine Dual Purpose. This boat is only started/stopped occasionally and otherwise powers a significant stereo system for long periods while anchored.

Both perform extremely well for their intended purposes - but after using Optima Deep Cycle in past performance boats with similar setups, the Exide Edges have performed much better for that purpose.