Which jet ski battery you need depends upon the manufacturer. There are three battery sizes as well as three battery types used in jet skis.
Depending upon the manufacturer, batteries will have a coded part number, like SB16-BS.
For PWC use, there are really only three size choices:
16 – generally used for 2 stroke engines
20 – newer Sea Doo and Sparks
30 – most 4 stroke engines
There are three types of batteries that are or have been used in jet skis. Lead acid, gel and AGM.
In the past, lead acid, or wet cell batteries, were the norm for jet ski use. They required charging before usage and regular maintenance.
In these batteries, the lead acid floods the battery and the level of liquid needs to be regularly checked and maintained by adding water or more battery acid when the liquid level diminishes. Because of the need for access, these batteries are unsealed and the opportunity for leakage or spillage exists.
They need to be handled carefully, and should the electrolyte mix with salt water it will give off a dangerous chlorine gas.
Gel batteries have a semi-solid material between the plates and are sealed and maintenance free.
Although they can be charged on a regular battery charger, they do require special care when charging as over charging can permanently damage them.
The gel batteries are more expensive, have a shorter life span, and fewer size options than other batteries.
AGM or Absorbed Glass Mat batteries have a packing material inside that has absorbed any liquid within the battery. These batteries are sealed and maintenance free, and can be used immediately off the shelf without pre-charging.
They do not require a special charger and are also lighter and more durable than the other batteries.
Certain manufacturers (Mercury Marine and Chrysler automobiles for example) will potentially void warranties unless the proper AGM battery is used. With today’s modern electronics, AGM is the best choice.
We recommend and sell the AGM batteries for jet skis. They are easier, safer, more durable and lighter for your jet ski needs.
