OT - According to some
Howard - The originator of this thread didn't give a damn about where the thread went, if you remember. He is sticking to abusing his batteries after picking everyone's brain for a few daze.
In the meantime there have been people spreading questionable info with a religious fervor.
Rob, since it sounds like reducing charge time away from the dock is desirable you might want to research the AGM batteries. They will reduce your charge times but at 2-3 times more cost.
And the story changes:
I'm glad that you brought that up; that's what the research part is about. There are in fact even more AGM characteristics to consider other than faster charge times.
As a point of fact, I put 70 amps into two grp 27 flooded cells without breaking a sweat. Deep cycle flooded cells will accept 35-40% of the nameplate rating. Do your research, as the man says.
Compared to the risks of driving, sailing, or crossing a street, the dangers of a lead lead acid battery are insignificant. To make one explode takes some effort, like shorting the battery terminals with the caps off. It's not easy to come up with a 4% concentration along with a spark.
There are some advantages in using AGM batteries, but the majority of us will not take advantage of them. Boats are designed with battery boxes low and upright. Alternators that can barely charge flooded cell batteries.
If you have a reason that AGM batteries have an advantage for you, by all means buy AGMs. Just don't rush into it because someone else "has done the research" for you.
Enough said.
BTW, Defender sells a 50 Amp galvanic isolator without monitoring for about $95.