Andrew’s Poem for your Batteries (Could They Light Rudolph’s Nose?)

Dec 19, 2024

‘‘Twas the night before Christmas and all ‘cross the land

Boats were left to slumber, exactly as planned.

Engines were winterized and tarps were tied tight

But batteries – and what to do – give many a fright.

Disconnect or remove, which shall it be?

An expensive replacement for under the tree!

So let’s do it right, with most careful care.

There are many opinions, and many who’ll share.

Lets start with the science, the theory besides:

A charged batt’ry holds acid, not water inside

But when it runs low, the acid is changed

Some molecules swap, leaving water (like rain).

The water can freeze, but the acid, not so

So trust in the science, don’t fret to and fro

They must be left charged, before the boat is left hinter

Don’t leave the volts low, when being safe for the winter

Charge them full-up, and leave them aboard

Lithium ion, lead acid or glass mat (absorbed)

If they’ve been taken offboard, and home to your shed

That’s just fine, too –  don’t go worrying your head

The key is in the charging – should be done right and true

Don’t let them drop below Twelve point two.

Check them monthly or else charge on a trickle

Ignoring them now, could put you in a pickle,

Speak not a word, head straight to your work

Remove negative cables – carefully, don’t jerk.

And lay your fingers caref’lly, you don’t want a mark

A tool between terminals can cause quite a spark.

Removing this now, will stop excess discharge

Leaving them longer, with a full tip-top charge

Take off those black cables, the ones running to ground

So that the electrical system will stay safe and sound

So spring now from your boat, lowly blowing a whistle

And step down that ladder like the down of a thistle

All will hear you exclaim, ere you drive out of sight

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good-night