Can someone explain to me how to wire batteries parrallel?

[Mike Bednarski]

I am flat out sick of running down my battery. I want to run two parrallel for my minn kota 40AT. Do i need to get the exact same battery as I have now? What kind of wires do I need? WHat do I connect to what? Thanks guys.

 

[Russ Charles]

Mike,



Just leave all the connections as they are on your present battery. Then connect the second battery to the first one Neg. To Neg. and Pos. to Pos. Use at least #6 gauge wire. For charging, it would be best if both batteries were of the same capacity (charging also takes twice as long). Remember, when the batteries are in parallel, if one battery fails (open cell), you will only know it by the over all reduced capacity (batteries run down too fast)or you may notice a reduced charging time. From time to time you should check them with a hydrometer.



Russ

 

[Russ Charles]

Mike,



As an after thought, have you considered just buying a larger capacity battery?



Russ