We have a 2006 FT Nimbus with a 400 HP Cummins. Our starting batteries are no longer holding a charge. We have to use the boost to start. We have three Exide batteries. I've read other forum contributors use Optima batteries. What is the difference between red top and yellow top batteries? What is recommended by other owners?
You will get lots of different opinions on this subject. The red tops are for high starting amps and not so much for deep cycle. If you have AGM's for the house batteries the Optima's are a good choice.
A good search will help you here, as some recent chat was about the Red, Yellow, and Blue.
My understanding is the Red are for starting, lots of cold cranking amps. The Yellow are more dual purpose, mixed use and needs. The Blue are for deep cycle, long time use, like a trolling motor, or RV camping needs.
I went with new Red tops for engine starting when I replace mine last year.
In my research, I'm finding different red tops (starting) for RV 's versus cars, trucks etc. has anyone heard of GM Glass "mast" starting batteries for motor homes ?
How many years does one get out of their starting batteries? We have no idea the age of these Exides.
Dave, what kind did you replace with? Model number? Did you need three new ones?
Go to battery forums and read the reviews on both. To me, either one is a total waste of money with a commercial 31 series a better choice. With three 31 series batteries, you should never have to use boost to start. For that matter, having to use boost to start indicates a shortcoming the the starting loop.
We have three 34 series that are 6 years old and never have a problem with winter slow cranking with our 9 liter engine without ever using boost. If all starting components are adequate and the batteries have been properly maintained over off season storage periods, there should be no problems for many years.
Pierce
Oops, that's AGM (absorbent glass mat) batteries.
;) great suggestion on less expensive commercial 31 batts. I was looking at $250.00 each!
I bought Optima's, the largest case size that would fit the steel frame size. I don't remember the Group #, maybe 34? I went back with 2 as per spec. on the build sheet to replace the 2 ancient ones or which one had failed. I also have an older 98, 8.3C, 325 hp, and it might be way easier to start than your new and larger engine.
I use them on my crane,s but because of the inverter charger needing the same type of battery to set voltages I went with the Optima AGM's
RollingO,
Double check that your starter isn't part of the problem. I had to replace my staring batteries too early (4 years old). I didn't realize all the years of slow cranking was the starter and I think it pulled my batteries down early. Now with a new starter it spins over much faster.
I have three group 34 optima red tops which are at least 8 years old. My cat engine starts instantly. If you shop you should pay about $200 each.