len19070 wrote:A starting battery and a deep cycle battery are made to do 2 different things. A start battery is made to discharge a lot of amps for short periods of time while a deep cycle is made to discharge low amps over a long period of time.
Its like comparing a Long distance runner, with one that's in the 100 yard dash.
When buying a deep cycle be certain you don't get a "Marine Deep cycle starting battery". This is a hybrid battery made to do both, but in reality it doesn't do either very well. Sears likes to push these on to people.
Stay away from if you see the words "Start" or "Dual purpose"
In so much as these Hybrids are the same price as the Proper Deep Cycle. It makes sense not to get one. The hybrids will work..but not as long.
I took my camera into work today and took a few photos, These are more of batteries Themselves that are Misleading. Once again as I have said "anything will work" Its just how long it will work for.
The first is a "Marine" battery
Though it is on the one side labeled as a Starting battery From the top it only says Marine. A lot of people associate Marine with Deep Cycle. This is NOT what you want.
Next is an "Ever START Deep Cycle"
What is this Battery? I duno?? It says Deep Cycle but it also says START. Is it a hybrid, Starting Battery or a Deep Cycle??? It can't be to good..only has a 12 month warranty.
Then there's this Gem
Its a Dual Purpose RV/Marine...Hey I can use it in my RV or my Boat. This has got to be the right one. Wrong, its a Hybrid.
One of the big problems I see from buying from a Box stores is That the guy advising you on what Battery to buy was in Lawn and Garden yesterday. He's reading the labels too.
Don't get me wrong, the Box stores do have the correct product.
KNOW WHAT YOU NEED.
You should get a Straight Deep Cycle Battery.
If your going to buy new, with all 3 styles of batteries being about the same price, Deep Cycle, Dual Purpose and starting Get the right one.
Happy Trails
Len