Jump Start Power Packs

Phil M · 15 October 2015, 13:05

I was out the other day and I got a low voltage warning on Smartcraft and GPS when I fired the engine over (it started fine though) so, considering it lives on a smart charger most of the time, I think it's probably time for a new battery. It got me thinking about a backup. I don't have twin batteries and don't really want to go with the hassle of locating and wiring in another battery, split charger, switch etc. as I really don't have the console space. I then spotted this in Diver mag and it sounds pretty good. I could use a standard power pack for phones whilst camping etc. but I thought this could be my backup power at sea. It will apparently start the engine, but even if not, could at least power a radio or gps for considerable time. It can be charged before a trip and topped up if needed from the 12v power socket I have in the console. I know this is more expensive than generic ebay/amazon ones but a UK company and warranty and water resistant rating is a but of a attraction for me.

Anybody had any experience with these or similar? Is it a worthy idea?

Phil M

jambo · 15 October 2015, 14:26

Hi Phil I've used and carried one for years would not go on a long cruise without it and I have a twin battery system. My latest one is Halfords it ha jump start two cigar outlets and two Usb terminals. You can get ones that are larger and have pump capacity.
Hope this is useful.
J

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Wrekindave · 15 October 2015, 16:26

Hi Phil, I've had the exact same thought as yourself and nearly bought a different branded version of the same thing. I was attracted to the fact that these are compact and light weight. The manufacturers claimed that they would start engines up to 4lts but many reviews on Amazon claim the wouldn't start 2lt petrol engines so I haven't bothered. As you say at least it would power VHF ect but ideally it would start the engine. If you do buy I'd love to know if it works?

jambo · 15 October 2015, 17:12

I used to start my old mariner 150 hp V6 2 stroke no bother with mine if that helps.

mattwarner · 15 October 2015, 17:16

I purchased one for the exact same reason when I had a 3.0 merc inboard in a bowrider and an electrical drain somewhere in the system, it was from Halfords and claimed to be able to start up big displacement engines but when I needed it wouldn't even turn it over and ended up in the bin!

This was one of the first generations and I am going back probably 15 years, so I know battery tech has come on a long way but in hindsight I should have tried it first!

Phil M · 15 October 2015, 17:42

Quote:

Originally Posted by jambo

I used to start my old mariner 150 hp V6 2 stroke no bother with mine if that helps.

Jambo, is yours one of the lead acid car battery with a handle types or the little li-po ones like the linked one? I believe the small onws have a capacitor bank that charges up to give the high current needed to start an engine.

Phil M

jambo · 15 October 2015, 17:55

Quote:

Originally Posted by Phil M

Jambo, is yours one of the lead acid car battery with a handle types or the little li-po ones like the linked one? I believe the small onws have a capacitor bank that charges up to give the high current needed to start an engine.

Phil M

Hi phil
no mine is this from halfords
Phaze 4-in-1 Jump Starter

Hope this helps as I said I never had any problems with them and this is a new one this year the last lasted 10 years.
Cheers
J

whiskylee · 15 October 2015, 19:16

Just purchased the same model at halfords it's on offer in store at £39.99 used it yesterday to start a Honda Civic as my old one didn't work