Gel Batteries, Do I need to change my voltage regulators

[Kevin Adkins]

I have a pair of QSB 6.7’s 425hp essentially un altered from factory. I recently purchased new 8D gel batteries, two per engine (12 volt systems) I have read that I should instal voltage regulators that will charge these ( very expensive ) batteries if I want them to last. Hoping that someone on here can help shed some light on the issue for me.
Thanks

Topic

[Clark Leighs]

Late??? Very late I know.

Gels, actual gels?
OR are you talking about AGMs?
It matters, a lot.

Both do require different voltages to recharge for proper life and best use. They are good batteries but like all batteries can be short lived if not treated right.
Agree also about the 120vac charger for both types.

The typical alternator regulator is not set up to look after these things. It is set up to look after the much more typical wet cells such as you have in your car.

The AGMs though are much closer to the wet cells and can more readily get away with the typical regulator operation.

[Dan]

You may also want to confirm your on board charger is suitable for the Gel batteries

[Kevin Adkins]

Thanks Tony, Good advice as always!

[Tony Athens]

IMO, that is a maybe or maybe not question……………….Until you can monitor Battery Terminal voltage under all conditions, you are only guessing what you are doing to your batteries as to changing..

Installing Digital Volt Meters (DVM) on Your Boat

[Author]

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