Do you use Optima batteries for both starting and trolling?

[skeetzx225]

I've been using Interstate batteries over the past few years, but my starter battery needs to be replaced and my trolling batteries are probably close to retirement as well. Who here uses Optima batteries for both? if so, what model # do you use? I know blue top for starter, but yellow or red for trolling?

I like the maintenance free benefit of them as well as being totally sealed...

Let me know what you think...

[macinckirk]

Blue top for both, when I have to get new batts in a few years thats what I'm going to use

[SKEETERBUG1]

you would use the blue top for startin and trollin, i like the maintaine free feature also, i have gooten three yrs out of them so far an havent had a problem, noticed they have went up even more in price since i bought em three yrs ago, they have got a faster recovery from bein uncharged for length of time , and they seem to hold up better, i was thinkin of goin with the bigger one next time i buy, but with them goin up even more i think ill reconsider, i think the bigger one last time i priced it , was around $225, , they hold up good even after a 6-8hr fishin day, where others (non maintance batt )seem to not hold charge good after 2yrs, you pay a little more for em up front but beats havin to strech three yrs out of fill type batteries.

[skeetzx225]

what do the blue tops go for now these days?

[macinckirk]

You can get the Blue top out here at auto zone for the smaller 1's for around $179.00 and I think I seen the big Blue top at a Boat dealer for $230.00

[skeetzx225]

it's like pulling teeth to get any meaningful information from Optima's website. What's the differences between the 2 bluetop batteries? I know it's more cranking/reserve power, but do you have numbers?

[macinckirk]

go down to the 2nd to last on page and you will see the Optima the Listed are the Blue top for Marine

http://www.interstatebatteries...?js=1

Here is allso a copy and paste of the info

Optima - Marine/RV Part # Group CCA MCA Amp Hours
@ 25 Amps Warranty (Mo.)
Free/Prorate Amp Hrs @ 20 Hrs. Dimensions (in.)
L | W | H Weight
(lbs) Terminal
SC31DM 31 900 1125 155 18/36 75 12-13/16 x 6-1/2 x
9-3/8 59.8 Stud and Auto
SC34DM 34 750 870 120 18/36 55 10 x 6-7/8 x
7-13/16 43.5 Stud and Auto
SC34M 34 800 1000 110 18/36 50 10 x 6-7/8 x
7-13/16 38.4 Stud and Auto

[skeetzx225]

So do most optima owners go with a SC34M for their starter and SC34DM for their trolling motor? This is keeping in mind overall weight/cost, otherwise the SC31DM makes sense for all 3...

[macinckirk]

You got it