# Four Winns H190 Battery + Cable Decision

> Living next to the existing service guide ([service-guide-v0.1.html](./fourwinns-h190-service-guide-v0.1.html)) — same equipment, decision-specific doc. The pontoon-swap-vs-new decision is the open Sam-side item.

## Spec requirements

- **MCA minimum:** 475 (Marine Cranking Amps)
- **Group size:** 24 or 27 (H190 box fits both)
- **Terminal type:** Top post standard
- **Voltage:** 12V single battery

## Decision matrix: pontoon swap vs new

### Pontoon battery suitable if ALL true

- Group 24 or 27 (fits)
- 475+ MCA (cranks I/O)
- Top post (cable compatible)
- <4 years old (cycles remain)
- Maintained (not deep-discharged)
- Starting (not deep-cycle only)

### NOT suitable if

- Group size mismatch
- Insufficient MCA
- Side post (different cable ends)
- >4 years old
- Deep-cycle only

## What Sam needs to check

1. **Four Winns current battery:** date code (top of battery), make/model, CCA/MCA, group size, terminal type
2. **Pontoon battery:** same specs
3. **Visual inspection:** corrosion, swelling, fluid level
4. **Test if possible:** voltmeter on terminals (should read 12.6V+ rested)

## Cable ends shopping list

### Option A: Reuse cables, new terminals

- Top post battery terminals (lead clamp, marine grade): NAPA #784351 ~$8-12/pair
- Heat shrink tubing (marine grade) ~$5
- Dielectric grease ~$5
- Wire brush ~$3

**Total: $20-25**

### Option B: New cables + terminals

- 2 AWG or 4 AWG marine cable, red + black: $2-4/ft × ~6ft = $12-24
- Terminals as above: $8-12
- Heat shrink + grease: $10

**Total: $30-45**

## Buy-new pricing (if swap not viable)

- Costco Interstate Marine 27: ~$120-140, 30-mo free replacement
- NAPA Power Premium Marine: ~$130-160
- Sam's Club Duracell AGM Marine: ~$170-190, longer life
- Walmart EverStart Maxx Marine: ~$100-130, budget

## Recommendation

If uncertain → buy new. Marine starting batteries last 5-7 years; peace of mind on water beats $120 saved.

## After decision — update with

- Final decision (swap vs new)
- Cable ends ordered
- Battery purchased
- Install date
- Boat ready-for-season verification

## Cross-references

- Equipment record: [/index/equipment/fourwinns-h190.md](/index/equipment/fourwinns-h190.md)
- Service guide: [/equipment/fourwinns-h190/](/equipment/fourwinns-h190/)
- Inspection notes: [/handoff-blocks/fourwinns-h190-2026-04-28.md](/handoff-blocks/fourwinns-h190-2026-04-28.md)
- Task: `task-BOAT-BATTERY-CABLES-001`