T&T: 1) Alternatives to 8D batteries are

[Mike Sullivan]

Our boat came with two 8D's for starting two Cat 3208's and an Onan 8KW
genset.  It also had a 4D for house electronics.  On the advice of this
list, I replaced  each 8D with two Heavy-duty Group 31 Starting Batteries,
and the 4D with two Group 31 Deep Cycle batteries.  Bought them all at Sams,
and the footprint of two group 31's is the same as one 8D.  I have had this
system in place for about two years now, and everything is working
perfectly.  The Cat engines and genset start immediately, and the house bank
works the 12V electronics just fine.  Actually, I now have more starting
power (CCA I think it's called) with 2 group 31's than I had with an 8D.  In
any event, I am glad I took that advice, because I can lift a group 31
battery.  My wife and I together can't lift an 8D.  YMMV, but I am very
happy with this setup

Mike Sullivan
Aboard Irish Ayes - Gulfstar 44
Cruising in FL, getting ready to head north with the Spring