Battery HELP NEEDED for STRATOS 201

[cwolbach]

I have a 1989 Stratos 201 w/ a 1997 Evinrude 225 Vindicator. I am having to replace my batteries and the electrical componets for the boat due to a small electrical fire.

Will this boat with this larger motor require 3 batteries or will 2 do? 24v o4 27v?
What are all of the electrical components need to integrate the 2 batteries? (regulators..ect.) It would help if someone had a wiring diagram. What gauge wire need to go to the engine, and to the rest of the boat from the batteries?

Any good (reasonably prices) battery recommendations?

Thanks

[hulapopr]

you only need one good crankin battery for the big motor,800cca's or bigger.the other 2 are for the trolling motor,don't hook them all together or you may get another fire.. use the regualar battery cables for the motor they have to be soft enough to move and auto type won't last..12-14 ga.wire will work for the accesories just make sure they are fused.you can buy all three batts at wal mart for $350 probably..i would also get a good used harness for the motor coming from the shift box splicing it will probably cause headaches down the road with loose connections and corrosion unless you solder every joint and use heat shrink tubing on them..

[cwolbach]

ok thanks. Any brands to look for?