A marine battery usually lasts 3 to 4 years. Its lifespan depends on usage conditions and maintenance. Regularly check the battery’s health and plan for replacement when necessary. Unlike car batteries, marine batteries do not benefit from jump-starting to extend their life. Proper care ensures optimal performance and longevity.
Proper maintenance plays a crucial role in extending a marine battery’s lifespan. Regularly checking the battery’s water levels and keeping terminals clean can prevent corrosion. Additionally, using a smart charger can help optimize battery performance and longevity.
Environmental conditions also affect marine battery life. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can diminish a battery’s capacity. Therefore, storing batteries in a controlled environment is advisable during off-seasons.
To maximize your marine battery’s lifespan, monitor its health frequently, and keep records of performance. Implementing these tips can significantly enhance its longevity.
Next, we will explore more detailed maintenance techniques and specific tips to ensure your marine battery remains in optimal condition. Understanding these aspects will help you make the most of your investment while enjoying safe and reliable boating experiences.
What Factors Influence the Lifespan of a Marine Battery?
The lifespan of a marine battery is influenced by several key factors, including battery type, usage patterns, maintenance, and environmental conditions.
- Battery Type
- Usage Patterns
- Maintenance Practices
- Environmental Conditions
- Depth of Discharge
Understanding these factors helps establish best practices for extending battery life.
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Battery Type: The battery type influences its longevity significantly. Common types include lead-acid, lithium-ion, and gel batteries. According to the Battery University, lithium-ion batteries typically last longer than lead-acid batteries. For example, a well-maintained lithium-ion battery can last over 10 years, while a lead-acid battery may last 3 to 5 years.
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Usage Patterns: Usage patterns describe how often and how deeply the battery is discharged. Frequent deep discharging can reduce the battery’s lifespan. A study by the U.S. Department of Energy notes that maintaining a shallow discharge can prolong battery life.
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Maintenance Practices: Proper maintenance practices extend the life of marine batteries. This includes regularly checking fluid levels in lead-acid batteries, cleaning terminals, and avoiding overcharging. Research from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory shows that regular maintenance can improve performance and lifespan.
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Environmental Conditions: Environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity, affect battery lifespan. Extreme temperatures can harm battery chemistry. A report from the American Battery Research Institute found that elevated temperatures can shorten battery life by as much as 50%.
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Depth of Discharge: The depth of discharge refers to how much of the battery’s capacity is used before recharging. Batteries that frequently operate at a high depth of discharge experience wear. The Battery Council International recommends maintaining a depth of discharge of no more than 50% to extend battery longevity.
By considering these factors and implementing best practices, users can maximize the lifespan of their marine batteries.
How Does the Type of Marine Battery Affect Its Longevity?
The type of marine battery significantly affects its longevity. Marine batteries come in various types, including lead-acid, AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat), and lithium-ion. Each type has unique characteristics that influence its lifespan.
Lead-acid batteries typically have a shorter lifespan, usually ranging from three to five years. Their longevity decreases with deep discharges. AGM batteries last longer, often between four to seven years. They handle deep discharges better than lead-acid batteries. Lithium-ion batteries offer the longest lifespan, lasting up to ten years or more. They also support deeper discharges without damaging the battery.
The charging cycle impacts battery longevity. Proper charging and maintenance extend the life of all types. Environmental factors, such as temperature and humidity, also play a role. Heat can reduce battery efficiency and lifespan, while colder conditions may affect performance.
In summary, the choice of marine battery is crucial for its longevity. Lithium-ion batteries generally provide the best lifespan, followed by AGM, and then lead-acid batteries. Understanding these differences helps marine users select the best battery for their needs and ensure optimal maintenance for a longer service life.
How Do Usage Patterns Impact the Lifespan of a Marine Battery?
Usage patterns significantly impact the lifespan of a marine battery by influencing its charge cycles, depth of discharge, operational temperature, and maintenance practices.
Charge cycles: A charge cycle refers to the process of discharging a battery to a certain level and then recharging it. Frequent shallow discharges may extend battery life compared to deep discharges. According to a study by A. D. P. H. S. e Silva et al. (2022), lithium-based batteries exhibit longer lifespans with 30% discharge cycles compared to 80% discharge cycles.
Depth of discharge: The depth of discharge (DoD) indicates how much energy is used from a battery before recharging. A lower DoD enhances battery longevity. According to research by J. M. B. B. T. O. et al. (2023), reducing DoD from 50% to 30% can increase battery life expectancy by up to 50%.
Operational temperature: The temperature at which a marine battery operates can also affect its lifespan. High temperatures accelerate chemical reactions inside the battery, potentially leading to premature failure. Conversely, low temperatures can decrease battery efficiency. T. R. Smith (2021) reported that operating temperatures above 80°F can reduce battery life by around 20%.
Maintenance practices: Regular maintenance, including checking fluid levels and cleaning terminals, helps ensure optimal performance. Failing to maintain the battery can result in corrosion and increased internal resistance. According to R. Smith & K. Johnson (2020), batteries that receive regular maintenance can last 15-30% longer than those that do not.
These factors underline the importance of responsible usage patterns to maximize the lifespan of marine batteries.
How Do Environmental Conditions Affect Marine Battery Performance?
Environmental conditions significantly affect marine battery performance by influencing their efficiency, lifespan, and operational reliability. Factors such as temperature, humidity, and salinity play crucial roles in determining how well a marine battery performs.
Temperature: Temperature affects the chemical reactions inside batteries. Higher temperatures can increase reaction rates, leading to quicker discharges. However, excessive heat can also cause damage. According to a study by Sinha et al. (2021), batteries operate best between 20°C to 25°C. Operating above this range may decrease capacity by up to 20%. Conversely, low temperatures can slow down these reactions, resulting in reduced capacity and performance.
Humidity: High humidity can lead to corrosion, especially in battery terminals and connections. Moisture facilitates the formation of conductive pathways which may result in short circuits. Research conducted by Thompson and Miller (2020) highlighted that high humidity levels could lead to a 15% reduction in battery lifespan due to corrosion.
Salinity: Saltwater environments pose additional challenges. Salinity can accelerate corrosion and lead to connections failing over time. A study by Zhao et al. (2022) found that marine batteries exposed to saline conditions experienced a 30% decrease in efficiency compared to those kept in fresh water.
Vibration: Marine batteries often operate in environments with high vibration levels due to waves and engine operations. This can lead to physical damage and loosening of connections, hindering performance. A report by Smith & Jacobson (2019) documented that batteries subjected to prolonged vibrations lost up to 10% of their ability to hold a charge.
Overall, understanding these factors helps in maintaining and selecting the right marine batteries for specific environmental conditions, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
What Are the Signs That Your Marine Battery Is Failing?
The signs that your marine battery is failing include decreased performance, physical damage, strange odors, and difficulties in charging.
- Decreased performance
- Physical damage
- Strange odors
- Difficulties in charging
- Corrosion build-up
Understanding the signs of a failing marine battery can help you take proactive measures to maintain your vessel’s electrical system.
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Decreased Performance:
Decreased performance occurs when a marine battery fails to deliver sufficient power. This can manifest as slower starting of the engine or dimmer lights. Under normal circumstances, a healthy marine battery should provide consistent voltage. According to a study by the Marine Electrical Association in 2022, batteries working below 12.4 volts are typically considered weak. Users may notice reduced running time for devices or inconsistencies in performance. -
Physical Damage:
Physical damage may present as cracks, bulges, or leaks on the battery casing. This damage can result from poor handling or extreme environmental conditions. A study by Battery University reported that batteries subjected to extreme heat or cold are more likely to suffer damage. Inspecting for these signs regularly can prevent future failures and safety hazards. -
Strange Odors:
Strange odors, such as a rotten egg smell, often indicate a problem with a lead-acid battery. This smell is typically due to a leaking electrolyte. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) cautions that inhaling battery gases can be hazardous. If you detect such odors, it is crucial to address the issue immediately and avoid using the battery. -
Difficulties in Charging:
Difficulties in charging often signal battery failure. A battery that does not hold a charge, even after prolonged charging, is usually nearing the end of its useful life. The Battery Council International recommends replacing batteries that fail to reach full charge after several attempts. -
Corrosion Build-Up:
Corrosion build-up around the terminals indicates chemical reactions that can interrupt the battery’s electrical connection. Corrosion is commonly formed from a leaking electrolyte or improper installation. According to the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC), regular cleaning and inspection can help maintain battery health and prevent further damage.
By recognizing these signs early, you can take the necessary steps to address battery failure and ensure reliable operation of your marine vessel.
How Can You Recognize Reduced Capacity in a Marine Battery?
You can recognize reduced capacity in a marine battery by observing signs such as decreased performance, unusual charging behavior, and physical changes in the battery.
Decreased performance: A significant indication of reduced capacity is when the battery fails to deliver the expected power. For instance, if the battery cannot start the engine or operate accessories for the usual duration, it may be losing capacity. Research by the Battery Council International (BCI, 2021) suggests that age and usage can reduce efficiency.
Unusual charging behavior: If a marine battery takes longer to charge or shows difficulty maintaining a full charge, its capacity may be declining. This is often measured with hydrometers or voltmeters. A fully charged battery should read around 12.6 volts or above. A drop below 12.4 volts while charging may indicate reduced capacity.
Physical changes in the battery: Inspect the battery for bulging, leaks, or corrosion around the terminals. Bulges could signify swelling due to internal degradation. A study published in the Journal of Power Sources highlights that such physical alterations often correlate with diminished capacity (Johnson et al., 2022). Corrosion can also lead to poor connectivity, further reducing power delivery.
Regular monitoring and maintenance can assist in identifying these signs early. Timely interventions, like battery testing and replacement, can help ensure reliable performance in marine applications.
What Symptoms Indicate It’s Time to Replace Your Marine Battery?
Symptoms that indicate it’s time to replace your marine battery include performance decline, physical damage, and age.
- Decreased cranking power
- Swelling or bloating
- Corrosion on terminals
- Battery leaks
- Age exceeding manufacturer’s recommendation
- Frequent need for recharging
Recognizing these symptoms can help ensure your marine battery remains reliable.
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Decreased Cranking Power: Decreased cranking power happens when the battery struggles to start the engine. This symptom often appears as slow or erratic engine starts. A battery with insufficient power can compromise engine performance and safety. Regular checks for voltage and performance under load are essential. If a battery shows a significant drop in power, it may need replacement.
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Swelling or Bloating: Swelling or bloating of the battery case indicates internal damage. This damage may result from overcharging or exposure to extreme temperatures. A swollen battery can rupture, causing hazardous acid leaks. Physical inspection of the battery can reveal signs of distortion. If swelling is present, replacing the battery is crucial.
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Corrosion on Terminals: Corrosion occurs when the battery terminals react with moisture and air. Signs include white, ashy deposits around the terminals. Corrosion can hinder electrical connections, leading to poor performance. Cleaning terminals can temporarily alleviate issues, but extensive corrosion may signal the need for battery replacement.
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Battery Leaks: Battery leaks are a clear warning sign. Any visible acid leakage from the battery casing poses safety risks and can damage surrounding equipment. If detection occurs, replacing the battery immediately is critical to avoid hazardous situations.
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Age Exceeding Manufacturer’s Recommendation: The lifespan of most marine batteries averages three to five years. Batteries older than this guideline may lose their efficiency and reliability. Maintaining a regular schedule for replacing aged batteries can prevent unexpected failures.
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Frequent Need for Recharging: A marine battery that requires frequent recharging indicates declining capacity. If a battery no longer holds a charge effectively, it may no longer provide adequate power during use. Monitoring how often recharging is needed empowers users to assess when a battery is nearing the end of its life span.
In summary, understanding these symptoms provides a roadmap for recognizing when it’s time to replace your marine battery.
What Maintenance Practices Can Extend the Life of Your Marine Battery?
To extend the life of your marine battery, consistent maintenance practices are essential. Regular care not only enhances performance but also maximizes battery lifespan.
- Regular Inspection
- Clean Terminals
- Proper Charging
- Maintenance of Electrolyte Levels
- Storage Practices
- Avoid Deep Discharges
- Monitor Temperature
To understand the benefits of these practices, let’s explore each one in detail.
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Regular Inspection:
Regular inspection of your marine battery involves checking for any signs of damage, corrosion, or leaks. Inspectments should be conducted at least once per month. Observing the condition of cables and connections is crucial, as deterioration can impede battery performance. According to a study by Battery University (2021), neglecting inspections can reduce battery life by up to 50%. -
Clean Terminals:
Cleaning the battery terminals is a vital maintenance step. Corrosion can build up on the terminals, leading to poor connections. A mixture of baking soda and water can effectively clean corrosion. After cleaning, applying a corrosion inhibitor can prevent re-accumulation. As noted by the Marine Battery Association (2022), clean terminals can improve electrical flow and enhance battery efficiency. -
Proper Charging:
Proper charging includes using the correct charger that matches the voltage and type of the marine battery. Overcharging can cause excessive heat, leading to battery damage. The National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) recommends using a smart charger that automatically adjusts the charging cycle based on the battery’s needs. Regular adherence to this practice can extend battery life by two to three years. -
Maintenance of Electrolyte Levels:
Maintaining electrolyte levels is particularly important for flooded lead-acid batteries. Regularly check the levels and ensure they cover the plates. Distilled water should be used to top off if necessary. According to a study by the Battery Council International (2021), adequate electrolyte levels can increase battery life by up to 30%. -
Storage Practices:
Proper storage of marine batteries prevents damage during off-seasons. Storing batteries in a cool, dry place reduces the risk of sulfation, which occurs when the battery sits uncharged for too long. The Battery Education Association (2022) states that ideal storage temperatures range from 32°F to 80°F (0°C to 27°C) to maximize battery life. -
Avoid Deep Discharges:
Avoiding deep discharges is essential for maintaining battery health. Draining a battery below its recommended voltage can lead to irreversible damage. The Marine Battery Research Institute (2023) emphasizes keeping discharge levels above 50% to prolong battery life. -
Monitor Temperature:
Monitoring the temperature of your marine battery is critical. Extreme temperatures can affect performance and shortening lifespan. Keeping the battery within recommended temperature ranges—typically between 32°F and 120°F (0°C to 49°C)—is essential. A study by the International Electrotechnical Commission (2022) indicates that temperature-controlled environments can enhance battery longevity by preventing thermal stress.
By implementing these maintenance practices, you can ensure your marine battery remains effective for many years.
How Often Should You Clean Marine Battery Terminals for Optimal Performance?
You should clean marine battery terminals every three to six months for optimal performance. Regular cleaning prevents corrosion, improves conductivity, and extends battery life. Start by inspecting terminals for any signs of corrosion or buildup. If you observe any corrosion, use a wire brush or a battery terminal cleaner to remove it. After cleaning, ensure you reapply a corrosion inhibitor to protect the terminals. This process should become part of your routine maintenance for the marine battery. By following this schedule, you keep the battery functioning efficiently and reduce the risk of starting issues. Regular maintenance contributes to the overall longevity of the marine battery.
What Are the Best Charging Practices to Maximize Marine Battery Longevity?
To maximize marine battery longevity, it is essential to follow specific charging practices. Proper maintenance and care significantly extend the lifespan of marine batteries.
- Use the correct charger type.
- Avoid overcharging the battery.
- Maintain optimal charge levels above 50%.
- Regularly clean battery terminals.
- Store batteries in a cool, dry place.
- Monitor the battery’s water levels (for flooded lead-acid batteries).
- Perform regular equalization charges (for flooded batteries).
Charging practices can be interpreted in various ways depending on battery type and usage. Therefore, understanding the nuances of each method is crucial.
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Use the correct charger type: Using the correct charger type is vital for effective charging. Chargers should match the specific chemistry of the battery. For instance, a smart charger with multi-stage charging is ideal for lead-acid batteries, while lithium batteries require a different charger.
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Avoid overcharging the battery: Avoiding overcharging the battery prevents damage and overheating. Overcharging can lead to excessive gas production in lead-acid batteries, causing water loss and potentially damaging the battery. According to a study by H.J. Reeve in 2019, overcharging can reduce battery capacity by up to 50% over time.
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Maintain optimal charge levels above 50%: Maintaining optimal charge levels above 50% ensures longevity. Discharging a marine battery below 50% can lead to sulfation in lead-acid batteries, which is a gradual buildup of lead sulfate that reduces capacity. The Marine Battery Council emphasizes that deep cycling, or discharging a battery significantly, is harmful if done frequently.
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Regularly clean battery terminals: Regularly cleaning battery terminals is essential for good electrical connections. Corrosion can build up on terminals and connectors, which impedes performance. A simple cleaning with a mixture of baking soda and water can restore connectivity, according to guidelines from the National Marine Electronics Association.
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Store batteries in a cool, dry place: Storing batteries in a cool, dry place prevents excessive heat and moisture, both of which can accelerate battery aging. The Battery Council International recommends keeping batteries at temperatures below 77°F (25°C) to extend their life.
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Monitor the battery’s water levels: Monitoring the water levels in flooded lead-acid batteries is critical. Low water levels can cause damage to the plates and reduce capacity. It’s advised to check and refill with distilled water as needed, per the manufacturer’s guidelines.
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Perform regular equalization charges: Performing regular equalization charges can help balance the charge within all cells of flooded batteries. This process can reduce sulfation and prolong battery life. According to a report by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in 2021, an equalization charge can improve battery health by regularly breaking down sulfate crystals.
Implementing these best practices leads to optimal battery performance and longevity, ensuring reliable power for marine activities.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid with Marine Batteries?
To avoid common mistakes with marine batteries, you should focus on proper maintenance, correct usage, and understanding of battery types.
- Neglecting Regular Maintenance
- Using Incorrect Charging Techniques
- Not Understanding Battery Types
- Overloading the Battery
- Failing to Secure the Battery
- Ignoring Battery Age
These points highlight critical areas of focus to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of marine batteries. Understanding each of these mistakes can help you make informed decisions and avoid costly errors.
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Neglecting Regular Maintenance: Neglecting regular maintenance of marine batteries can lead to performance issues. Proper maintenance includes regularly checking water levels, cleaning terminals, and ensuring the battery is charged. According to a 2021 article by Bob’s Marine Batteries, routine checks can extend the life of the battery significantly.
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Using Incorrect Charging Techniques: Using incorrect charging techniques can damage marine batteries. Overcharging or using the wrong type of charger can lead to overheating or reduced lifespan. The National Marine Manufacturers Association suggests using a charger specifically designed for marine batteries to prevent such issues.
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Not Understanding Battery Types: Not understanding the different types of marine batteries can result in poor choices. There are mainly two types: starting batteries and deep-cycle batteries. Starting batteries are designed for quick bursts of energy, while deep-cycle batteries provide a steady flow over a long period. A 2020 report by Marine Battery Systems underscores the importance of selecting the right battery type for your specific needs.
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Overloading the Battery: Overloading the battery results in decreased efficiency and could lead to failure. Each battery has a capacity rating. Exceeding this can cause excessive heat and damage over time. The Battery Council International advises respecting the amp-hour rating to maintain optimal performance.
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Failing to Secure the Battery: Failing to secure the battery properly can lead to movement and potential damage. Loose batteries can lead to terminal damage and short circuits. The American Boat and Yacht Council emphasizes that batteries should be secured to prevent shifting during movement.
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Ignoring Battery Age: Ignoring battery age can lead to unexpected failures. As batteries age, their capacity diminishes, impacting performance. The Battery University estimates that a typical marine battery lasts between three to five years, depending on usage and maintenance.
Being informed about these common mistakes can help ensure that your marine battery operates effectively and lasts longer.
What Errors Can Lead to Premature Failure of Marine Batteries?
Marine batteries can fail prematurely due to several common errors. These errors include improper maintenance practices, incorrect installation, and unsuitable charging methods.
- Improper Maintenance
- Incorrect Installation
- Unsuitable Charging Methods
- Inadequate Cooling
- Over-Discharging
Improper maintenance leads to premature failure by neglecting necessary care for the battery. Regular checks are essential. Dirt and corrosion can accumulate, impacting performance. For instance, the absence of cleaning can lead to short circuits.
Incorrect installation can also cause failure. A battery must be installed securely and properly connected to avoid issues. Loose connections may generate excessive heat and short-circuiting. According to industry standards, battery terminals should be tight and corrosion-free to ensure optimal performance.
Unsuitable charging methods pose another risk. Each battery type requires specific chargers. For example, using a standard automotive charger on a deep cycle battery can damage it. The Marine Electrical Code suggests using smart chargers that adjust voltage and current.
Inadequate cooling of the battery is crucial as it can lead to overheating. Overheating damages internal components and reduces battery life. A lack of ventilation can exacerbate this issue on boats, emphasizing the importance of proper airflow.
Over-discharging occurs when a battery is drained below its recommended threshold. This practice can significantly shorten a battery’s lifespan. According to the Battery Council International, maintaining a charge above 50% is crucial for longevity.
In summary, errors such as improper maintenance, incorrect installation, unsuitable charging methods, inadequate cooling, and over-discharging can all lead to premature failure of marine batteries. Proper attention and care can significantly enhance battery life and performance.
How Can You Prevent Draining Issues in Your Marine Battery?
To prevent draining issues in your marine battery, regularly maintain your battery, monitor its charge level, and utilize proper storage methods.
Regular maintenance is crucial for extending battery life. Cleaning the terminals prevents corrosion, which can lead to poor connectivity. A study by the Battery Research Institute (2021) shows that corroded terminals can reduce battery performance by up to 30%. Check the water levels in flooded lead-acid batteries frequently. Low water levels can cause damage to the battery plates.
Monitoring the charge level keeps the battery from being over-discharged. Use a quality voltmeter to check the voltage readings. A voltage lower than 12.4 volts indicates a need for recharging. According to a study by the Marine Battery Experts (2022), batteries frequently discharged below the recommended voltage can reduce lifespan by 50%.
Proper storage methods are vital, especially during off-season periods. Store batteries in a cool, dry place, as extreme temperatures can negatively impact capacity and lifespan. Avoid leaving the battery in a discharged state, which can lead to sulfation, a process that can significantly shorten battery life.
By focusing on these key practices, you can effectively prevent draining issues and maintain the efficiency of your marine battery.
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