Two Batteries Why

[Leupold]

question what is the purpose of two batteries, there is a switch marked #one, #two or both. When to use which one

[seapuppy]

welcome to the zoo....it really depends on what type of boat you have....a little info on that might help us answer your question more specifically..but for us cruisers.....one is a start batt...used for starting the boat ....the other is called a house batt....used for supplying lights and other house items...ie fridge..water pump..etc...now when to use which is really determined to the types of batt's you have installed....so..for start...it will be a high starting amp batt.....to supply max amperage to the engine for starting when it's cold or extremely hot..
the house batt's can be used to help suppliment the starting batt incase it gets low...the house batt is usually used as a long steady amp draw...ie lights....also known as a deep cycle batt....

hope that helps..

SP

[oneradride]

Kind of along the same lines.... if you have a high power stereo that you are going to use for hours while docked on a sand bar with friends or camping. It's great to know you have the extra assurance that you can still start the boat to get back..... and I have been there.... after jamming for about 4 hours and the stereo starts cutting out because the battery does not have enough power to keep the amps on... it's great to just flip the switch and you are good to go!

[oneradride]

and yes... Perko makes some of the best.. this is the one I have..

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/te...questid=156474

[Leupold]

The boat is a model 2000 SR series with two batteries and with a switch marked one, two and both