I'm replacing my batteries on my merc 525's and I was wondering what everyone else is using. I'm more than likely going with optima 800 cold cranking amps 1000 marine cranking amps but can I get away with less? The price for 650 cca is substantially less but I'm worried it won't be enough. The 525's have whipped kits but I doubt that makes a difference.

Thank you for your time and help, it's greatly appreciated. Let me know what you think.

Go for the best you can fit. Never going to need the extra capacity until you do....... The whipple does add to the cranking load somewhat.

The manual says "Recommended Battery Rating, Minimum 750 CCA, 950 MCA, or 180 Amp/Hrs." I have Optima Blue tops in my boat.

I put 1000 mca batteries in everything. Why go cheap you'll end up cooking a starter.

It amazes me how people will spend alot of money on a boat and engine package and then worry about saving $50 or $100 on a battery

Thank you for all the good solid answers, I can't believe the last post took that long to show up. I bought 4 1000 Mca blue tops yesterday. The fact that I worry about saving money like I do is the same reason my business is still flourishing in these times and allowing me to have a toy that costs more than most people's homes. Man any chance people get... And usually those people don't even have anything, they just can't resist the chance to jab at someone.

its not about taking a jab at someone. Its about doing things the right way. going cheap on the battery is going to cost you more money down the road with extra wear and tear on major electrical components on the engine and could give you possible issues with systems on the boat. You just proved my point by bragging about how much your boat is. I have plenty and I am quite happy with how things are going for me. Not everyone needs to be rich and arrogant to be happy.