Battery - or something else?

The battery that came with the new to me Martinique was old and not holding much charge.   I was able to start the boat to warm it up and change the oil by jumping it (yes - I used the bucket method).   So, I purchased a new battery about 3 weeks ago.   I installed it today hoping to get the boat in the water, but got nothing but a click.   I am thinking the battery wasn't fully charged when I got it and it sat for a few weeks and I just need to get it charged up - does that make sense?   What does everyone use to keep the battery charged up?

I have had that problem before and went through the whole routine. When buying a new battery I do not leave until it is tested. Which battery did you buy? Did you try anything else?
Mike

Yes on checking all you connections. Do the cables show any signs of corrosion? (green copper on the ends) Did you use a wire type post cleaner designed for battery lugs and cable terminals? Check the volts going to the starter when you turn the key to start.

BTW, my batteries sit all winter without a charge and they crank the engines come spring.

The boat is at the cottage.   I will be there this weekend. I will plan on cleaning up the terminals, check all connections, etc. Pete - what should I see at the starter for volts if the battery is good vs dead?   Thanks everyone.

Slupe wrote: The boat is at the cottage.   I will be there this weekend. I will plan on cleaning up the terminals, check all connections, etc. Pete - what should I see at the starter for volts if the battery is good vs dead?   Thanks everyone.

Checking the voltage of a battery is a poor way to check it's condition. You need to have a load tester (the auto supply will do it for you) to really tell.

The voltage to the starter and comparing that to the voltage at the battery will give you an idea of cables,connections and start relay condition. If you get more than a couple volts drop, then there's a problem.