Originally Posted by
seastrength
Hi Fed
I suspect you are probably right. Although the battery indicator was red, the shop voltmeter test still read 12.2 volts, but not enough to kick the motor over. I assume my 50PH Honda motor can recharge the battery, but do not have the know how to check if this is happening while underway. I never had a problem with my first battery, a Seamaster Gold, which lasted 8 years. My problems only started after I upgraded the old Garmin sounder to a Helix 9 with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth etc. As Ranmar mentioned above, there may have been a low power draw from the new electronics even though everything was "turned off". I have since added a small second battery circuit for the accessories, bilge pump, lights, and sounder and keep the start battery separate only for the motor.. So hopefully, this will fix my problem without the need to install a battery isolator as well. I can also disconnect the battery positive when not using the boat for a longer period of time as other Ausfishers have recommended. Cheers SS.