Additional Batteries on 26M

[Piddle and Futz]

Hey everyone,

We have 2 AGM batteries installed in the normal location, behind the companionway ladder in our 26M.

I have 2 more laying about that I thought I might add in, both for reserve power when anchored and to help correct some of the tendency to list slightly to port.

Wondering what others have done.

Maybe I should be looking at lithium instead of lead, but I have these on hand and it would simplify charging.

[Be Free]

Can't give you advise about where to put your batteries (I have an ) but I would suggest that mixing battery chemistries does add a level of complexity to your charging environment. Traditional (FLA) and AGM requirements are close enough that you don't really have to be concerned; lithium not so much.

I can't say that your outboard can't charge a lithium battery, but it was not designed to do so. I know that mine won't do it. It's fine for charging my start battery but it's more like a trickle charger when it comes to my (FLA) house bank. Lithium likes to be charged at a high rate. You may put an unexpected load on the alternator or it may just do a poor job of charging the battery.

Whether the benefits of lithium batteries outweigh the complexities they introduce to your charging environment is something only you can answer.

[Hugh]

As far as location vs your list to port there is lots of space to Starboard to locate batteries. My AGMs grp 27 start #63 (amidships/port) and a Grp 31 AGM @ 70# mounted to starboard of start battery. My 26M lists to Starboard. They are so close to centre line I doubt if battery placement is the cause of my/your list. Mixing battery chemistries appears to not work from what I’ve read.You dont say if you have shore power or just rely on your OB for charging.I know my onboard shore power charger doesn’t recommend mixing types.
Besides a 100Ah LiGo battery only weighs in the 26# range. I doubt placing a 26# battery will affect your trim.