Quote Originally Posted by hairball View Post
I read an article years ago that said for optimal battery performance and life, get a hydrometer to test them while charging and only charge them to 1.265. I have followed this advice ever since and have gotten good performance out of all batteries, regardless of brand. I particularly remember a set of DieHards that lasted over five years, during which I usually fished at least two days a week from spring through fall. Sure, it's a little bit of an inconvenience, but who among us isn't into getting all that they can out of products and saving a few bucks these days?
I agree with ya. I tend to buy the cheapest batteries I can find. Charge them after ever trip, keep them charged between trips, and keep them out of extreme heat, watch water levels, and don't bang them around. Last 2 trolling motor batteries I bought were Stowaways from K-Mart at $65 each, group 27's in Jun and Oct 2006. And they are still alive and well. Now, if I could just get a dolly and a lift for them......my back is killling me!