Battery Size (replacing)
I need to replace my RV battery. It is a 24DC model. I know that does not mean 24 volts DC. I see a 24DC battery I can get but there is also a 27DC that has more MCA (not sure what that means but I a...
Forum Discussion
valhalla360 wrote:
A few clarifications:
- CCA and MCA are all about starting the engine.
CCA- Cold Cranking Amps (tested at 0°F)
MCA - Marine Cranking Amps
Useless information for your application.
valhalla360 wrote:
- Amp-Hour rating is how long the battery can output power (at an assumed amperage, though much lower than the amperage for starting a truck engine). This would be a good estimate for how long it could run something like a fridge that might be drawing 10amps but for a long time.
Amp-hour is the "best" information you will get (the testing method is convoluted) when trying to compare to different batteries for your application.
valhalla360 wrote:
- Then you have starting, marine and deep cycle batteries. This is the internal structure of the battery. Starting batteries use many thin lead plates as more surface area generates more amps. Deep cycle batteries use fewer thicker plates as thicker plates can hold more stored energy. Marine (aka: Combo) are generally starting batteries that have been relabeled starting batteries that have a wing nut attachment on the studs. It's almost impossible to find true deep cycle 12v batteries. Usually, people will get 6v golf cart batteries and wire them in series to generate 12 if they really want deep cycle.
They also charge more for a Marine/RV battery "just because".
As stated, the "best bang for the buck" is a pair of 6V golf cart batteries. GC2 golf cart batteries typically deliver about 225 Ah. They will tolerate more charge/discharge cycles than starting batteries.
