Deep Cycle Batteries

[Tall Tom]

Anybody have a brand preference for a 27 Group Deep Cycle battery for "boonie" camping?  Need to pick up a spare for my next 2 week excursion the end of the month. I have decided not to take a generator and have replaced all interior lighting with LEDS to reduce usage.
Thanks.

[waterdoctor]

Tom
I'm not really into having favorites with brand names. Some time ago, I was told by a reliable source that there are only 2 or 3 battery manufacturers in the US. Exide is the probably the biggest. With that few battery makers, you have to conclude that the only difference between the various brands is the label (and the price!!!) :confused: Basically, from what I'm told, they are all pretty much the same, with the exception of the 'gel' batteries. I've run several different brands over the years and have not seen any appreciable difference, other than the price. I haven't been able to figure out what, if any, real differences there are between any of the 'lead acid' types. I usually go for the best price, but also look at the warranty. Living in the desert, batteries don't last much more than 2-3 years, so I go for the 72-84 month warranty. That way, when the battery gives up, the pro-rate is definately in my favor. I don't think the same holds true for the deep cycle batteries, but it's worth a look-see.
 
I hope this has helped. Good luck. :W
Steve

[tlhdoc]

I also go with the price, and the reserve capacity of a battery.  I have found the best price to be at Sam's Club.

[sacrawf]

I have had good luck with Interstate brand batteries on both boats (deep cycle trolling motors) and on the popup.  I got much longer service out of Interstate batteries than the store-brand deep cycle batteries. http://www.interstatebatteries.com/cs_estore/content/product_info/marine_f.asp

[SFDonovan]

I took this route and will test it out for two weeks in July at Watkins Glen State park in New York.

http://www.title-3.com/Battery.htm

I hope they will last the majority of the two weeks, but will bring an EU2000i for backup.

[tplife]

Once you go Optima, you won't go back.  About 20% smaller, lighter, no need for a battery case since there are no acid leaks to put holes in your jeans, no degassing H2 in your garage, much faster recharge time, longer life...what else do you want?  Advanced Glass Materials batteries are just the way to go, IMHO.  Costco had a great coupon and a great price, and I've now got a house battery!

http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb296/firetender69/2009-06PARTY011-2.jpg

Here's the Optima Blue-Top that powers my campsite electrical needs. The unit has 10A+ and 20A- fusing on both ends of 2 seperate power circuits. Battery charger-type quick disconnects finish off the connectors, which have heat shrink over crimp connectors. Crimp connectors assure easy field repairs vs. soldering. You can see two Wagan 3-into-1 plugs in use here with a digital voltmeter. Note the if-needed 180W inverter. Not shown is a Radio Shack stepdown adapter 12V - 5.5, 6, 9 and 12V.

http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb296/firetender69/2009-06PARTY017-2.jpg

The system here powers a Kenwood/Polk music system, as well as up to 3 18" CityLites programmable LED light bars, a portable flashing unit, and a 16-lamp folding LED desklight. With the converters handy there are a lot of devices that can be powered or charged up on the spot. There are 5 open plugs available at once since the digital voltmeter is kept connected in one socket...

http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb296/firetender69/2009-06PARTY013-2.jpg

[BirdMan]

Tom, good move on replacing your lights with LED's.  There are many things to consider when choosing any particular type of battery.  They all have their advantages and dis-advantages.  A couple great write-up on batteries:
//www.chargingchargers.com/tutorials/batteries.html
//www.windsun.com/Batteries/Battery_FAQ.htm

...both provide a wealth of information.

[coach]

Whatever brand Sam's currently carries.

Last time I checked, that was Interstate.

[tplife]

AGM batteries can also be used and transported upside down or sideways, so I guess I can also take them dry-camping on the moon.  :U
If you have the room in your vehicle, there's no substitute for two large 6V golf-cart batteries vs. one (or even 2) 12V batteries.  They have a lower cost due to longer life.  Here is an article that includes instructions on hooking up golf-cart batteries in series:  http://bart.ccis.com/home/mnemeth/12volt/12volt.htm