Everstart 29Dc Marine Battery

After spending countless weekends on the water with my trusty bass boat, I’ve learned that nothing ruins a perfect day on the lake faster than a dead battery. That’s why I’m sharing my personal experience and extensive research on the Everstart 29DC Marine Battery – a popular choice that’s caught the attention of many weekend warriors and serious anglers alike.

When my previous marine battery failed mid-fishing trip last summer (leaving me to paddle back to the dock in embarrassing fashion), I decided to dive deep into the world of marine batteries. The Everstart 29DC kept appearing in forums and conversations with fellow boaters as an affordable option that doesn’t compromise on performance. After six months of personal use and gathering insights from other owners, I’m ready to share everything you need to know about this wallet-friendly power source.

Understanding the Everstart 29DC: Specifications That Matter

Let me start with the nuts and bolts. The Everstart 29DC Marine Battery is a Group 29 size battery manufactured for Walmart under their Everstart brand. It’s designed specifically for marine applications, which means it’s built to withstand the unique challenges of boating environments.

The technical specifications are what first caught my eye when comparing options:

• Battery Type: Dual-purpose (both starting and deep cycle capabilities)
• Voltage: 12V (standard for most marine applications)
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 750 CCA
• Marine Cranking Amps (MCA): 950 MCA
• Reserve Capacity: Approximately 160 minutes
• Amp-Hour Rating: Around 110-115 Ah (though not explicitly stated by manufacturer)
• Weight: Approximately 60 pounds
• Dimensions: 13″ × 6.75″ × 9.5″ (typical Group 29 size)
• Terminal Type: Dual terminals (both post and screw-in)

When I first installed this battery in my 18-foot bass boat, I immediately noticed the solid construction. The case feels robust and the terminals are well-designed for secure connections. The dual terminal design proved particularly convenient when I needed to connect both my main engine and trolling motor.

Price Point: Budget-Friendly Power

One of the most compelling aspects of the Everstart 29DC is its price point. While premium marine batteries from brands like Optima or ODYSSEY can easily run $300-400, the Everstart 29DC typically retails between $115-130 depending on current promotions at Walmart.

This price advantage doesn’t necessarily mean cutting corners on quality. During my six months of regular weekend use, I’ve found the performance to be surprisingly reliable for the cost. That said, I’ve noticed the battery seems to perform best when it’s not pushed to extremes – more on that later.

I remember standing in the Walmart automotive section, comparing prices on my phone and feeling skeptical about choosing the less expensive option. The $200 I saved compared to premium brands felt too good to be true. But after numerous successful fishing trips, I’ve come to appreciate that sometimes value doesn’t have to come with a premium price tag.

Availability: Where to Purchase

The Everstart 29DC is exclusively sold through Walmart stores and their online platform. This limited distribution channel is part of what keeps costs down, but it also means you might need to plan ahead if your local store doesn’t keep them in stock.

I learned this lesson the hard way when my previous battery died unexpectedly on a Friday afternoon before a planned weekend trip. I called three local Walmart locations before finding one with the 29DC in stock. My advice? Check availability online before making the trip, or better yet, purchase a replacement before you absolutely need one.

The silver lining to this Walmart exclusivity is the nationwide availability of service. No matter where your boating adventures take you, chances are there’s a Walmart nearby if you need to utilize the warranty service.

Performance in Real-World Conditions

Theory and specifications are helpful, but what really matters is how the battery performs when you’re out on the water. After using the Everstart 29DC through multiple seasons and in various conditions, here’s my honest assessment:

Starting Power

With 750 Cold Cranking Amps, the Everstart 29DC has never failed to start my 90HP outboard, even on chilly spring mornings when the temperature dipped into the 40s. The cranking power feels robust and consistent, which is impressive for a battery at this price point.

I remember one particularly cold April morning when my fishing buddy’s premium battery struggled to turn over his similar-sized engine, while my Everstart fired up on the first try. The surprised look on his face was priceless!

Deep Cycle Performance

As a dual-purpose battery, the Everstart 29DC isn’t specialized solely for deep cycle applications, but it does provide decent runtime for trolling motors and electronics. I’ve consistently gotten about 5-6 hours of use from my 55-pound thrust trolling motor on medium settings before noticing performance decline.

However, this is where I’ve observed some limitations. When I pushed the battery with a full day of heavy trolling motor use (8+ hours on higher settings), I noticed the power dropping off more quickly toward the end of the day compared to my previous AGM deep cycle battery. For casual anglers who don’t spend sunrise to sunset on the water, this likely won’t be an issue, but serious tournament anglers might want to consider a dedicated deep cycle battery or carrying a spare.

Weather Resistance

Marine environments demand weather-resistant equipment, and the Everstart 29DC seems well-suited to handle splashes and humidity. The sealed design prevents water intrusion, and I haven’t noticed any corrosion issues on the terminals despite some inevitable exposure to water.

During a particularly rough day on the lake last August, my boat took on some water from choppy conditions, partially submerging the battery compartment. I was concerned, but the Everstart continued performing without issue, which speaks to its marine-grade construction.

Longevity and Durability: What to Expect

Battery longevity is where personal experiences and reviews show the most variation. Based on my research and conversations with other Everstart 29DC owners, the typical lifespan seems to range from 2-4 years with regular use, depending on maintenance practices and usage patterns.

I’m only six months in with my current battery, so I can’t personally speak to multi-year durability, but the consensus among long-term users suggests that with proper care, you can expect about 3 years of reliable service from the Everstart 29DC. This compares reasonably well to the 3-5 years you might get from premium batteries costing twice as much.

One pattern I’ve noticed in reviews is that batteries used primarily for starting purposes tend to last longer than those regularly deep-cycled for trolling motors. This aligns with the battery’s dual-purpose design – it can handle both tasks but may wear faster when frequently deep-cycled.

Warranty Coverage: Your Safety Net

The Everstart 29DC comes with a 24-month warranty, with the first year offering free replacement and the second year providing prorated coverage. While this doesn’t match the 3-5 year warranties of premium brands, it does provide reasonable protection for the price point.

Filing a warranty claim requires taking the battery to a Walmart Auto Care Center for testing. I haven’t personally needed to use the warranty service, but several reviewers note that the process is straightforward if you have your original receipt.

One tip I picked up from a marine mechanic: keep your receipt stored in a waterproof bag in your boat’s documentation folder. Marine batteries often fail when you’re far from home, and having proof of purchase readily available can save significant hassle.

Compatibility with Trolling Motors

For many anglers, trolling motor compatibility is a critical concern. The Everstart 29DC is suitable for trolling motors up to about a 55-pound thrust rating for moderate use. For higher thrust motors or extended trolling sessions, you might want to consider a dedicated deep cycle battery or connecting multiple batteries in parallel.

I use my Everstart 29DC with a 55-pound thrust Minn Kota, and it provides adequate power for 5-6 hour fishing sessions with mixed speed settings. When I participated in a 10-hour tournament last fall, I noticed significant power reduction in the final hours, suggesting this battery has limits for extended heavy use.

One fellow angler I regularly fish with uses two Everstart 29DCs wired in parallel for his 80-pound thrust motor, which seems to provide sufficient power for full-day excursions. This setup offers good value compared to premium deep cycle options while delivering comparable runtime.

Proper Charging Techniques

Proper charging is perhaps the single most important factor in extending the life of any battery, and the Everstart 29DC is no exception. Based on my experience and research, here are the key charging practices I follow:

1. Use a marine-specific smart charger that automatically adjusts charging rates and prevents overcharging. I use a 10-amp NOCO Genius charger that has served me well.
2. Charge immediately after use, especially if the battery has been deeply discharged. Leaving a partially discharged battery sitting for extended periods significantly reduces its lifespan.
3. Maintain a full charge during storage. For seasonal storage, I keep the battery on a maintenance charger that delivers small pulses to prevent sulfation.
4. Avoid fast charging whenever possible. While the battery can accept higher amp charging, slower charging (10 amps or less) promotes longer battery life.
5. Never charge a frozen battery. If you store your boat in unheated spaces during winter, bring the battery inside before charging.

I learned the importance of proper charging the hard way with my previous battery. After several instances of leaving it partially discharged for days between fishing trips, its performance degraded noticeably within a year. With my Everstart 29DC, I’ve been diligent about immediate charging after use, and the performance has remained consistent.

Installation Basics: Getting Connected Properly

Installing the Everstart 29DC is straightforward for most boats, but proper installation does impact performance and longevity. Here’s my process:

1. Ensure the battery compartment is clean and dry before installation.
2. Secure the battery tightly using your boat’s hold-down system to prevent movement while underway.
3. Clean terminals thoroughly before connection and apply a thin layer of terminal protectant to prevent corrosion.
4. Connect the positive (red) cable first, then the negative (black) when installing, and reverse the order when removing.
5. Check for tight connections by gently twisting each terminal – there should be no movement.
6. Install terminal covers if your setup allows for additional protection against accidental shorts.

One installation tip I discovered through trial and error: if you’re using the battery for both starting and trolling motors, connect your starting motor to the post terminals and your trolling motor to the threaded terminals. This arrangement seemed to provide the most reliable starting performance in my setup.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

No product is perfect, and being aware of potential issues helps you make an informed decision and properly maintain your investment. Here are some common concerns with the Everstart 29DC and how to address them:

Shortened Lifespan with Heavy Deep Cycling

As mentioned earlier, while the Everstart 29DC is a dual-purpose battery, heavy and frequent deep cycling can shorten its lifespan compared to dedicated deep cycle batteries. If you regularly use your trolling motor for extended periods, consider:

• Using a dedicated deep cycle battery for your trolling motor
• Installing multiple batteries in a bank
• Carrying a spare battery for longer trips

Cold Weather Performance Reduction

Like most lead-acid batteries, the Everstart 29DC shows reduced performance in very cold conditions. I’ve noticed approximately 20-30% less runtime from my trolling motor on days below 40°F. This is normal battery behavior, but worth planning for if you enjoy cold-weather fishing.

Weight Considerations

At approximately 60 pounds, the Everstart 29DC is on the heavier side for its class. This weight reflects its internal lead plates and construction, but it can be a consideration for smaller boats or situations where weight distribution is critical. I found that repositioning some of my gear helped balance my boat after upgrading to this slightly heavier battery.

Terminal Corrosion

While the battery is well-sealed, marine environments are notoriously harsh. Some users report terminal corrosion developing over time. I prevent this by:

• Applying a quality terminal protectant spray every few months
• Keeping terminal connections clean and tight
• Performing visual inspections before each use

Availability Challenges

As mentioned earlier, with Walmart being the exclusive distributor, availability can sometimes be an issue. I’ve made it a habit to check stock at nearby stores whenever my battery approaches the two-year mark, so I’m prepared when replacement time comes.

Environmental Considerations: Recycling Your Old Battery

Lead-acid batteries are among the most recycled products in America, and proper disposal is environmentally essential. When your Everstart 29DC reaches the end of its life, here’s how to handle it responsibly:

1. Never dispose of marine batteries in regular trash – it’s environmentally harmful and illegal in most places.
2. Return your old battery to Walmart when purchasing a replacement – they’ll typically give you a core charge credit (usually around $10-15).
3. Alternative recycling locations include most auto parts stores, battery specialty shops, and many municipal recycling centers.

When I replaced my previous battery with the Everstart 29DC, the Walmart automotive department handled the old battery recycling seamlessly, even though I hadn’t originally purchased it there. The process was as simple as bringing in the old battery when buying the new one.

Comparing the Everstart 29DC to Competitors

To provide perspective on where the Everstart 29DC stands in the market, here’s how it compares to some popular alternatives:

vs. Interstate Marine Batteries

Interstate offers similar group size marine batteries with comparable specifications but typically at a 20-30% higher price point. In my research, Interstate batteries generally receive slightly higher reliability ratings and offer a longer warranty (often 36 months vs. Everstart’s 24 months).

vs. Optima BlueTop

Optima’s BlueTop batteries utilize AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) technology, which offers superior vibration resistance and maintenance-free operation. They typically deliver longer lifespans (4-5 years) and better deep cycling performance, but at more than double the cost of the Everstart 29DC. For casual weekend boaters, the performance difference may not justify the price premium.

vs. ODYSSEY Marine Batteries

ODYSSEY offers premium AGM batteries with impressive specifications and 3-4 year warranties. Their pure lead plate design provides excellent deep cycle performance and fast recharge capabilities. However, at triple the price of the Everstart 29DC, they represent a significant investment that makes sense primarily for commercial users or serious boaters who demand maximum reliability.

vs. Duracell Marine Batteries

Available at many retail locations, Duracell marine batteries offer similar specifications to the Everstart at a slightly higher price point. In my observations, the performance differences are minimal, making the Everstart the better value option in most cases.

After comparing options across various price points, I found the Everstart 29DC offers approximately 70-80% of the performance of premium batteries at roughly 30-40% of the cost. For recreational boaters who use their vessels 2-3 times monthly during season, this value proposition is compelling.

Boat Compatibility: Finding the Right Fit

The Everstart 29DC is suitable for a wide range of watercraft, but certain applications are particularly well-matched to its capabilities:

Bass Boats and Small Fishing Boats

The 29DC is an excellent match for bass boats and small fishing vessels (14-20 feet) with outboard motors up to about 150HP. The dual-purpose design accommodates both starting and trolling motor needs, making it a convenient single-battery solution for casual anglers.

Pontoon Boats

For pontoon boats with motors up to about 90HP and moderate electronic loads, the Everstart 29DC provides reliable starting power. However, if your pontoon features extensive lighting, sound systems, and other accessories, you might benefit from a dedicated deep cycle battery for house loads.

Small to Medium Runabouts

Pleasure boats up to about 21 feet with single engines typically work well with the Everstart 29DC. The 750 CCA rating provides adequate starting power for most single-engine applications in this size range.

Sailboats with Auxiliary Motors

For sailboats with small auxiliary motors, the dual-purpose nature of the 29DC offers good versatility, handling both engine starting and cabin electronics when needed.

My 18-foot aluminum bass boat with a 90HP outboard and 55-pound thrust trolling motor has been perfectly matched to the capabilities of the Everstart 29DC. The battery compartment accommodated the Group 29 size without modification, and the power delivery has been appropriate for my typical half-day fishing outings.

The Voice of Experience: What Users Are Saying

Beyond my personal experience, I’ve gathered insights from dozens of reviews and conversations with fellow Everstart 29DC users. Here’s what the broader user community reports:

Positive Feedback Trends

1. Value proposition is consistently the most praised aspect, with users appreciating the balance of performance and price.
2. Reliable starting power receives high marks, with few reports of starting failures when the battery is properly maintained.
3. Availability and warranty service through Walmart’s nationwide network provides peace of mind for travelers.
4. Dual-terminal design is frequently mentioned as a convenient feature that simplifies installation in various configurations.

Critical Feedback Patterns

1. Lifespan concerns appear in approximately 15-20% of reviews, with some users reporting batteries lasting less than 2 years (though often without details on maintenance practices).
2. Deep cycle performance limitations are noted by more demanding users, particularly those using higher-thrust trolling motors for extended periods.
3. Weight is occasionally mentioned as a drawback compared to some lighter (and more expensive) AGM alternatives.
4. Inventory challenges at some Walmart locations cause frustration for users needing immediate replacement.

One interesting pattern I’ve observed is that user satisfaction seems highly correlated with expectations and usage patterns. Weekend anglers and casual boaters generally report high satisfaction, while more intensive users sometimes find the performance lacking compared to premium alternatives.

My Six-Month Verdict

After six months of regular use in my bass boat, I can confidently say the Everstart 29DC has exceeded my initial expectations given its price point. It has reliably started my outboard in various weather conditions and provided reasonable runtime for my trolling motor during typical 4-6 hour fishing sessions.

The most impressive aspect has been the value – delivering approximately 75% of the performance of batteries costing twice as much. For my recreational use pattern (2-3 outings monthly during season), this value equation makes perfect sense.

That said, I’ve recognized its limitations. On two occasions when I spent dawn-to-dusk on the water (8+ hours), I noticed significant power reduction in my trolling motor by late afternoon. This confirmed what many reviews suggested – the 29DC is good but not exceptional for extended deep cycling applications.

For my next boat upgrade, I’m considering a two-battery system: keeping the Everstart 29DC as my starting battery and adding a dedicated deep cycle battery for the trolling motor. This would leverage the 29DC’s strongest attributes while addressing its main limitation.

Final Recommendations: Is the Everstart 29DC Right for You?

After thousands of words analyzing the Everstart 29DC, the decision ultimately comes down to your specific needs and usage patterns. Here’s my guidance based on different boating profiles:

Consider the Everstart 29DC if you:

• Are a weekend recreational boater who uses your boat 1-3 times monthly
• Typically spend 4-6 hours on the water per outing
• Have a boat under 21 feet with a single outboard up to about 150HP
• Use a trolling motor rated 55 pounds of thrust or less
• Want good performance at an economical price point
• Value the convenience of nationwide warranty service through Walmart

Consider alternative options if you:

• Are a tournament angler or frequent boater (multiple times weekly)
• Regularly spend 8+ hours continuously on the water
• Heavily rely on your trolling motor at higher power settings
• Have a boat with significant electronic accessories or house loads
• Frequently boat in extreme cold conditions
• Prioritize maximum lifespan over initial cost

For the majority of recreational boaters, the Everstart 29DC represents an excellent value proposition, delivering reliable performance at a price point that’s hard to beat. While it may not offer the ultimate performance of premium AGM batteries costing 2-3 times as much, it provides a sensible balance of capability and affordability that makes sense for most weekend warriors.

As I look back on my decision to purchase the Everstart 29DC, I’m satisfied with the choice. It’s been a reliable companion on numerous fishing adventures, never leaving me stranded and providing consistent performance for my typical usage patterns. Most importantly, it’s delivered this reliability without breaking the bank, leaving more room in my budget for the endless list of other fishing gear I’ve convinced myself I absolutely need!

Whether you’re replacing an aging battery or outfitting a new boat, the Everstart 29DC deserves serious consideration as a budget-friendly option that doesn’t significantly compromise on performance where it matters most.