Do I need a second battery?

[StriperHerring]

I'm new to the board and a new boat owner.  Just purchased an 04 Osprey 200 in mint condition.  Looking for a little advice about batteries.  The rig comes with one battery.  The only electronics are a VHF and fishfinder.....I have a handle held GPS.  I'm not looking to be running off-shore........although perhaps in the future on a good day I will run to the tuna grounds 18 miles out.  A couple friends have suggested that I install a second battery with a perko switch so that I can have a back up.  Any thoughts on this?  Do most people install a second battery or do most just live with one?

Thanks in advance.

[John Jones]

I would not get out of cell phone range without two.  That's about 6-7 miles from the beach here.

[wingtime]

I've always had two batteries on my boats.  It just gives you that much more flexibility and back up for a small price.  I figure it will cost you $65-$75 for a battery, $35 for a switch,$25 for wires and maybe $10 for a battery box.  So $150 bucks for the peace of mind of not having to worry about if your gonna be able to start after a long day on the water.   Well worth it in my book!

[seabob4]

As JJ said, do it for piece of mind...

Here's a diagram to help you out...
http://classicaquasport.com/smf/index.php?topic=9053.msg79506#msg79506

Bob C

[seabob4]

Dammit, I just had to do it...<!-- s:cheers: --><!-- s:cheers: -->

http://classicaquasport.com/smf/index.php?topic=9053.msg79505#msg79505

[gran398]

Smokin'.... :bom:

 

[Aswaff400]

any boat should have atleast 2 batteries. and atleast 3 if twin screw

[seabob4]

any boat should have atleast 2 batteries. and atleast 3 if twin screw

X2...