Electric trolling motors propel a boat with the help of batteries. The electric motor takes the energy from the batteries and turns it into thrust measured in pounds. These power ratings may be found on any engine available today. Lower voltage motors can only produce a little push because of this direct relationship between voltage and thrust.
Seventy to eighty pounds of thrust is typical for 24V trolling battery. It’s ideal for fishing for a long time, even in bad weather. Compared to a 12-volt system, a 24-volt one will need fewer amps to operate, resulting in much longer run times in addition to a higher power and more thrust. Two identical 12-volt lead-acid batteries may be linked in series to create a 24-volt battery bank.
The construction of battery banks with varying voltages is standard practice. While 24-volt batteries are available, they are uncommon and need particular care. Confirm whether the 12-volt lithium batteries you’re considering can be linked in series before making a purchase. 24-volt lithium batteries are commercially available, but they provide similar challenges in terms of installation and unique charging needs.
Wire gauge sizes for a 24-volt system are more significant than those for a 12-volt system. Using a smaller gauge wire may be a huge money saver in a long yacht when the batteries are far from the engine. Battery chargers are readily available when a 24-volt system is built from numerous 12-volt batteries. Three-bank, interchangeable-battery chargers are a fan favorite at our office.
The Benefits Of Lithium Battery
Investing in lithium trolling motor batteries is a no-brainer if you spend a lot of time on the water or if your boat needs more space. Lithium batteries have two significant benefits: long run life and low weight. The battery on your trolling motor won’t last the whole day of fishing, which is a common issue (especially on long summer days).
In such a scenario, if you have a lithium battery rather than a lead-acid battery, you can keep your engine running without interruptions all day. People who own tiny vessels, such as kayaks, canoes, and bass boats at most 16 feet in length, sometimes face the challenge of inadequate storage space for their watercraft.
Lithium-ion batteries, being lighter in weight, may help you use your available space better. Using one 24-volt lithium battery instead of two 12-volt batteries can reduce the battery weight aboard your vessel. If your boat is a more typical size and you spend only a few hours at a time on the water, you can get by with a conventional lead acid battery and save yourself the cash.
Here are a few of lithium batteries’ main benefits:
- Extending the period between charges
- Reduced poundage
- increased battery life expectancy
- Rapid charging significantly reduces waiting times
It’s also noteworthy that the charging time is cut down significantly. On the other hand, a lithium battery only needs two to six hours to charge fully, whereas a lead acid battery might take anywhere from eight to ten hours. This eliminates the need to keep it plugged in overnight and allows you to restore its battery life quickly.