Battery Charger Selection Guide

Choosing the right battery charger for your boat is essential. An incorrect charger might not meet your needs or include all the features you desire. The interactive Battery Charger Selection Guide will help you navigate the available features and recommend the best charger based on your preferences, ensuring an optimal boating experience.

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Interactive Battery Charger Selection Guide | Fuses | Wire Size/Wire GaugeMounting, Footprints, and WeightOutput Cable LengthsExtending the Charger Output CablesExtension Cord AWG for Plugging in the ChargerCompatible Battery Types and ChargingCharge Time ChartsPower Loss During Charge CycleTemperature During Operation Charging ConfigurationsCharging Batteries Connected in Parallel or in SeriesCharging while One Bank is DisconnectedCharging with a Portable Generator | Waterproof Chargers | Service on the ChargersMinn Kota Onboard Marine Charger Overview VideosManuals

Interactive Battery Charger Selection Guide

Fuses

Chargers with the red blade style fuse holders use an automotive ATC or similar type fuse. A replacement fuse should be rated for 30A at a minimum of 32V and should be UL listed. It is also recommended that a thin layer of automotive grease be applied to the fuse contacts. This will help prevent moisture or condensations from developing in the fuse holder and prevent corrosion which can lead to failure. Chargers with a yellow fuse holder use a 30 amp AGX 32V automotive fuse.

Wire Size/Wire Gauge

The wire size on all MK Chargers and the MK-EC-15 Battery Charger Extension Cable is 12 AWG.

Mounting, Footprints, and Weight

The Minn Kota battery charger be mounted in any position but it is highly recommended that the charger not be mounted below the waterline.

Precision (PC and PCL) Charger Footprints and Weights
Model Number Item Number Footprint L x W x H Weight (lbs)
MK106PCL 1831061 9.88 in x 4 in x 3.5 in x  4.4 lbs
MK106PC* 1831060 9.88 in x 4 in x 3.5 in x  4.4 lbs
MK110PCL 1831101 9.88 in x 4 in x 3.5 in x  4.4 lbs
MK110PC* 1831100 9.88 in x 4 in x 3.5 in x  4.4 lbs
MK212PCL 1832121 9.88 in x 5.88 in x 3.5 in  6.2 lbs
MK212PC* 1832120 9.88 in x 5.88 in x 3.5 in   6.2 lbs
MK220PCL 1832201 9.88 in x 5.88 in x 3.5 in   6.2 lbs
MK220PC* 1832200 9.88 in x 5.88 in x 3.5 in   6.2 lbs
MK230PCL 1832304 9.5 in x 6.75 x 3.25  11.25 lbs
MK230PC* 1832300 9.25 in x 7.62 in x 3 in.  9.6 lbs 
MK318PCL 1833181 9.5 in x 7.76 in x 3.5 in 8.1 lbs
MK318PC* 1833180 9.5 in x 7.76 in x 3.5 in 8.1 lbs
MK330PCL 1833301 9.5 in x 7.76 in x 3.5 in 8.1 lbs
MK330PC* 1833300 9.5 in x 7.76 in x 3.5 in 8.1 lbs
MK345PCL 1833454 9.5 in x 8.63 in x 3.25 in 15.7 lbs
MK345PC* 1833450 11 in x 9.25 in x 3 in 13.7 lbs
MK 440PCL 1834401 9.88 in x 9.88 in x 3.5 in 10.5 lbs
MK 440PC* 1834400 9.88 in x 9.88 in x 3.5 in 10.5 lbs
MK460PCL 1834604 9.5 in x 10.38 in x 3.25 20.1 lbs
MK460PC* 1834600 14.5 in x 9.5 in x 3 in 18 lbs
MK 550PCL 1835500 11.75 in x 9.88 in x 3.5 in 16.2 lbs

* Obsolete Charger Model

Digital Chargers Footprints and Weights
Model Number Item Number Footprint L x W x H Weight
MK 106D* 1821065 8.75 in x 4.75 in x 3 in 4.5 lbs
MK 210D* 1822105 11.5 in x 7.5 in x4 in 11 lbs
MK 220D* 1822205 13.5 in x 7.5 in x 4 in 15 lbs
MK 315D* 1823155 12.5 in x 7.5 in x 4 in 14 lbs
MK 330D* 1823305 16.25 in x 7.5 in x 4 in 20 lbs
MK 440D* 1824405 11.75 in x 6.75 in x 8 in 22.5 lbs

* Obsolete Charger Model

Portable Charger Footprints and Weights
Model Number Item Number Footprint L x W x H Weight
MK 105PD* 1831050 5 in x 7 in 6.5 in 3.5
MK 110PD* 1830110 7 in x 9 in x 7.75 in 6.5

*Obsolete Charger Model

Output Cable Lengths

Each DC output cord is six feet long. Do not shorten the DC output cords, as this can affect charger output. If the DC output cords are not long enough, they may be lengthened. The maximum extension length is 15 feet. To lengthen the DC output cords: you can use MK-EC Battery Charger Extension Cable (1820089) kit.

Extending the Charger Output Cables

The MK-EC Battery Charger Extension Cable (#1820089) is an optional kit that is NOT included with the charger but is used to extend the charger output leads. Click here for purchase options. Please refer to the MK-EC Extension Cable Accessory instructions to correctly extend the leads.

Extension Cord AWG for Plugging in the Charger

An extension cord should not be used unless absolutely necessary. Use of improper extension cord could result in a risk of fire and electric shock. If an extension cord must be used, make sure:

  • That pins on plug of extension cord are the same number, size and shape as those of plug on charger.
  • That extension cord is properly wired and in good electrical condition.
  • That wire size is large enough for ac ampere rating of charger as specified in table.

Extension cord ratings vary by the Minn Kota Charger model. Please refer to the chart below to find the extension cord that will work best with your model charger.

Precision Chargers (PC and PCL) AWG Size for for Use with Extension Cord
Model Item Number 25' AC Extension Cord 50' AC Extension Cord 100' AC Extension Cord
MK 106PCL 1831061 18 AWG 18 AWG 16 AWG
MK 106PC* 1831060 18 AWG 18 AWG 16 AWG
MK 110PCL 1831101 18 AWG 18 AWG 16 AWG
MK 110PC* 1831100 18 AWG 18 AWG 16 AWG
MK212PCL 1832121 18 AWG 18 AWG 16 AWG
MK212PC* 1832120 18 AWG 18 AWG 16 AWG
MK 220PCL 1832201 16 AWG 16 AWG 12 AWG
MK 220PC* 1832200 16 AWG 16 AWG 12 AWG
MK 230PCL 1832304 16 AWG 16 AWG 12 AWG
MK 230PC* 1832300 16 AWG 16 AWG 12 AWG
MK 318PCL 1833181 16 AWG 16 AWG 12 AWG
MK 318PC* 1833180 16 AWG 16 AWG 12 AWG
MK 330PCL 1833301 16 AWG 12 AWG 12 AWG
MK 330PC* 1833300 16 AWG 12 AWG 12 AWG
MK 345PCL 1833454 16 AWG 12 AWG 10 AWG
MK 345PC* 1833450 16 AWG 12 AWG 10 AWG
MK 440PCL 1833454 16 AWG 12 AWG 10 AWG
MK 440PC* 1834400 16 AWG 12 AWG 10 AWG
MK 460PCL 1834604 14 AWG 12 AWG 10 AWG
MK 460PC* 1834600 14 AWG 12 AWG 10 AWG
MK 550PCL 1835500 14 AWG 12 AWG 10 AWG

* Obsolete Charger Model

Digital Charger AWG Size for for Use with Extension Cord
Model Item Number 25' AC Extension Cord 50' AC Extension Cord 100' AC Extension Cord 150' AC Extension Cord

MK 106D*

1821065 18 AWG 18 AWG 18 AWG 16 AWG
MK 210D* 1822105 18 AWG 18 AWG 16 AWG 14 AWG
MK 220D* 1822205 18 AWG 18 AWG 14 AWG 12 AWG
MK 315D* 1823155 18 AWG 18 AWG 14 AWG 12 AWG
MK 330D* 1823305 18 AWG 16 AWG 14 AWG 12 AWG
MK 440D* 1824405 18 AWG 16 AWG 12 AWG 10 AWG

* Obsolete Charger Model

Portable Charger AWG Size for for Use with Extension Cord
Model Item Number 25' AC Extension Cord 50' AC Extension Cord 100' AC Extension Cord 150' AC Extension Cord
MK 105PD* 1831050 18 AWG 18 AWG 18 AWG 16 AWG
MK 110PD* 1830110 18 AWG 18 AWG 18 AWG 16 AWG

* Obsolete Charger Model

 

Compatible Battery Types and Charging

 

Minn Kota Precision, Digital, and Portable Chargers can charge 12V 6-cell lead-acid batteries, AGM batteries and certain 12V Lithium (LiFePO4) batteries. Minn Kota Precision Chargers (PC and PCL) have a selectable battery setting that optimizes the charge when specific battery types are selected. Minn Kota PCL Chargers are optimized for certain 12V Lithium (LiFePO4) batteries.
Always check with the battery manufacture before charging a battery. The type of Minn Kota charger being used enables a specific set of battery types to be charged. A list of battery types by charger are listed below.

  • Digital and Portable Chargers
    • Flooded (12V 6 Cell)
    • AGM (12V 6 Cell)
    • Certain 12V Lithium (LiFePO4)
  • Precision Chargers (PC)
    • Flooded (12V 6 Cell)
    • AGM (12V 6 Cell)
    • Gel (12V 6 Cell)
    • Certain 12V Lithium (LiFePO4)
  • Precision Chargers (PCL)
    • Flooded (12V 6 Cell)
    • AGM (12V 6 Cell)
    • Certain 12V Lithium (LiFePO4)

PCL Chargers Charging Profile

Charge Time Charts

Charge time depends on:

  • Size of the battery
  • How much energy was taken from the battery
  • Health or condition of the battery
  • Charger output current
PCL Chargers (2022-present)
mceclip4.png
Model Item Number # of Banks Output Per Bank (AMPS) Total Output (Amps) Charge Time* (Hours)
MK 106 PCL 1831061 1 6 6 10-12
MK 110 PCL 1831101 1 10 10

4-6

MK 212PCL 1832121 2 6 12 10-12
MK 220PCL 1832201 2 10 20 4-6
MK 230PCL 1832304 2 15 30 3-5
MK 318PCL 1833181 3 6 18 10-12
MK 330PCL 1833301 3 10 30 4-6
MK 345PCL 1833454 3 15 45 3-5
MK 440PCL 1834401 4 10 40 4-6
MK 460PCL 1834604 4 15 60 3-5
MK 550PCL 1835500 5 10 50 4-6

 

PC Charger (obsolete)
mceclip4.png
Model Item Number # of Banks Output Per Bank (AMPS) Total Output (Amps) Charge Time* (Hours)
MK 106PC 1831060 1 6

6

10-12
MK 110PC 1831100 1 10 10 4-6
MK 212PC 1832120 2 6 12 10-12
MK 220PC 1832200 2 10 20 4-6
MK 230PC 1832300 2 15 30 3-5
MK 318PC 1833180 3 6 18 10-12
MK 330PC 1833300 3 10 30 4-6
MK 345PC 1833450 3 15 45 3-5
MK 440PC   4 10 40 4-6
MK 460PC 1834600 4 15 60 3-5

* Obsolete Charger Model

Digital Chargers (obsolete)
mceclip4.png
Model Item Number # of Banks Output Per Bank (AMPS) Total Output (Amps) Charge Time* (Hours)

MK 106D

1821065 1 6 6 10-12
MK 210D 1822105

2

5 10 10-12
MK 220D 1822205 2 10 20 4-6
MK 315D 1823155 3 5 15 10-12
MK 330D 1823305 3 10 30 4-6
MK 440D 1824405 4 10 40 4-6

* Obsolete Charger Model

Portable Chargers (obsolete)
mceclip4.png
Model Item Number # of Banks Output Per Bank (AMPS) Total Output (Amps) Charge Time* (Hours)
MK 105PD 1831050 1 5 5 10-12
MK 110PD 1830110 1 5 5 10-12

Power Loss During Charge Cycle

The Precision charger will simply restart the charging cycle with the battery type that was originally selected. Losing power or unplugging the Precision charger does not clear the battery type selection. If the charger was in Equalization Mode, the charger will revert to Flooded battery type.

Temperature During Operation

Minn Kota Chargers are designed to work within the limits defined in UL 1236 for marine battery chargers. The Minn Kota battery chargers can reach 150° F. They may get warm in an enclosed area. The maximum recommended room temperature for charging batteries is 122° F. 

Even though the Minn Kota charger is capable of operating in a high ambient temperature environment, a minimum of six inches of unobstructed area should be allowed on all sides of the unit for proper air circulation and cooling. If the charger seems to get “hot,” try opening a hatch to help cool the charger. When the charger is hot, the output current will drop to protect the charger and the battery.

Charging Configurations

Connecting Two Batteries to One Bank | Connecting One Battery to Two Banks

Charging Batteries Connected in Parallel or in Series

When charging batteries that are connected in parallel or in series, the battery jumper wire(s) can remain in place when a Minn Kota charger is being used.

Connecting Two Batteries to One Bank

  • If your batteries are connected in parallel you can charge them with one bank. However, it will take longer to charge multiple batteries. The battery chargers are equipped with built-in safety timers to prevent overcharging of a single battery. If the time to charge multiple batteries connected in parallel exceeds specific time limits, the charger will shut off. To fully charge multiple batteries connected in parallel, you may have to unplug and re-plug in the charger to reset the safety timers and finish the charging process. When connecting batteries in parallel, the batteries should be the same make, model, age and condition. Always check battery manufacturer's specifications.
  • If you are connected in series, you cannot charge them with one bank. Minn Kota chargers are designed for 12 Volt battery systems only.

Connecting One Battery to Two Banks

Connecting a second bank to one battery will charge the battery almost twice as fast because it doubles the battery charging current. The maximum safe charging current for your battery should be verified. Always check battery manufacturer's specifications for safe charging currents. For flooded lead-acid batteries, the fluid in the battery is more likely to evaporate with higher charging currents. The fluid level should be checked frequently.

Charging while One Bank is Disconnected

All Minn Kota battery chargers have fully independent charging banks. Unused banks can be left disconnected from batteries. It is recommended to cover unused ring terminals to prevent shorting of other electrical circuits.

  • When a Digital Minn Kota charger is used, banks will display a solid RED LED when the terminals are unused. In the case of Digital and PC chargers set to Flooded, AGM or Gel the charger will indicate a solid RED led for checking a connection when the terminals are unused.
  • When a PC or PCL Minn Kota charger is used and the battery type is set to Flooded, AGM or Gel, banks will display a solid RED LED when the terminals are unused.
  • Lithium batteries can shut themselves off after extensive use or under certain conditions. This protective condition is referred to as Standby Mode. Refer to your Lithium Battery Owner's Manual to learn more about conditions that could activate Standby Mode. Your Minn Kota PCL charger has an Auto Start system set up to automatically restart the battery a set number of times to take the Lithium Battery out of Standby Mode so that is can be charged.
  • When a PCL Minn Kota charger is used and the battery type is set to Lithium, banks will display a solid RED LED when the terminals are unused until it exceeds a number of "turn on" attempts allowed. When the PCL Charger is set to Lithium Mode and the charger exceeds the number of attempts allowed to wake the battery from Standby Mode a blinking RED LED with solid 25%, 50% and 75% YELLOW LEDs error code is displayed.

Charging over Long Periods of Time

Minn Kota Chargers are designed to not damage batteries if the charger is left plugged in for long periods of time when not in use. Minn Kota's On-board chargers operate in Float Mode where they maintain the battery voltage for 24 hours and then transition to Long Term Storage Mode. During this time the Charger no longer outputs power to the battery and only monitors the voltage. It will automatically resume charging when the battery voltage drops.

Charging with a Portable Generator

Careful selection should be used when deciding on a portable generator for electronics. There are 2 important factors that must be considered:

  • Output power:
    Generators are marketed in output wattage. This wattage must be higher than the power required by the battery charger.
  • Output type:
    Minn Kota chargers require clean output power from the generator to prevent permanent damage. The generator must replicate the power from a standard AC outlet in your home (sine wave output).

Below are the wattage requirements in order to power each charger type:

  • PRECISION CHARGERS
    • MK 106PC -100W
    • MK 110PC -165W
    • MK 212PC -200W
    • MK 220PC -330W
    • MK 318PC -300W
    • MK 330PC -500W
    • MK 440PC -660W
    • MK 230PC -500W
    • MK 345PC -700W
    • MK 460PC -900W
    • MK 106PCL -90W
    • MK 110PCL -150W
    • MK 212PCL -180W
    • MK 220PCL -300W
    • MK 318PCL -270W
    • MK 330PCL -450W
    • MK 440PCL -600W
    • MK 550PCL -750W
    • MK 230PCL -500W
    • MK 345PCL -700W
    • MK 460PCL -900W
  • DIGITAL CHARGERS
    • MK 106D -100W
    • MK 210D -200W
    • MK 220D -470W
    • MK 315D -270W
    • MK 330D -500W
    • MK 440D -620W
  • PORTABLE DIGITAL CHARGERS
    • MK 105PD -90W
    • MK 110PD -180W
  • Alternator chargers are operated on DC power and cannot be charged with a generator.

 

  •  

Waterproof Chargers

The Minn Kota On-board (Alternator, Digital, Precision/PC and Precision/PCL) battery chargers are waterproof, however, they should not be operated while immersed. The Minn Kota Portable chargers are vented and are not waterproof. It is recommended that the On-Board chargers not be mounted below the water line. The On-Board chargers are Ignition Protected per the requirements of the US Coast Guard.

Service on the Chargers

There are no serviceable components inside the charger.

Minn Kota Onboard Marine Charger Overview Videos


Manuals

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