EP 107

Joe Cubberley is a battery expert who served in the Navy and has extensive knowledge about all types of marine batteries including lead acid, AGM, and lithium. In this conversation, Joe reveals his approach to building the ultimate trolling motor system, shares his passion for classic American muscle cars and German luxury vehicles, and explains why he spends his relaxation time with his hands deep in automotive projects. From sixties Mustangs and Camaros to a 1953 Pontiac Chieftain, Joe's collection reflects decades of hands-on experience with electrical systems and power management. This episode explores the intersection of marine battery technology and automotive enthusiasm through the lens of someone who truly lives and breathes both worlds.

The Automotive Obsession Behind the Battery Expert

What drives a battery expert when he's not working on marine electrical systems? For Joe Cubberley, the answer lies in his garage filled with American muscle and classic iron. His collection spans decades of automotive history, from a 1953 Pontiac Chieftain to late sixties and early seventies Mustangs and Camaros. But it's not just about collecting—it's about the hands-on work. Joe describes working on cars as his relaxation, and his philosophy is simple: the bigger the motor, the better. This automotive passion isn't separate from his battery expertise—it's deeply connected to his understanding of electrical systems and power management across different applications.

From Navy Experience to Marine Battery Systems

Joe's journey into battery expertise began with his service in the Navy, where he developed a deep understanding of electrical systems under demanding conditions. This military background gave him exposure to lead acid, AGM, and lithium battery technologies in ways that most civilians never experience. When Tom Rowland set out on a mission to create a trolling motor system that would never run out of juice, he discovered that Joe possessed a level of battery knowledge that was truly rare. The conversation reveals how military training translates into practical solutions for everyday boating challenges, and why understanding power management is critical for anyone serious about time on the water.

Building the Perfect Power System

Creating a trolling motor system that never runs out of power isn't just about buying the biggest battery you can find. Joe's expertise reveals there's a science to matching battery types, understanding discharge rates, and building redundancy into your electrical system. Whether you're dealing with lead acid, AGM, or making the jump to lithium technology, each choice comes with trade-offs in weight, cost, lifespan, and performance characteristics. Joe breaks down these considerations in ways that make sense for real-world applications, helping boaters understand not just what to buy, but why certain configurations work better for different fishing styles and boat setups.

Classic Cars and Big Motors

Joe's automotive collection tells the story of someone who appreciates mechanical excellence across eras. His range spans from the early fifties with his 1953 Pontiac Chieftain through the golden age of American muscle in the late sixties and early seventies. Mustangs and Camaros occupy special places in his garage, representing the era when American automakers were in an all-out horsepower war. But Joe's enthusiasm isn't limited to American iron—he also appreciates German engineering and luxury vehicles. What ties it all together is his hands-on approach: this isn't about static displays or trailer queens. Joe finds his relaxation with his hands in an engine bay, and his rule is simple—if it's old and you can put a big motor in it, he's even more interested.

Final Thoughts from Tom

I've been on this mission to figure out how to never run out of battery power on the water, and I can honestly say I've never met anyone who knows as much about batteries as Joe Cubberley. His background in the Navy combined with his hands-on automotive work gives him this unique perspective on electrical systems that you just don't find every day.

What I really appreciate about this conversation is how Joe connects his passion for classic cars with his battery expertise. When he talks about relaxing with his hands in a '53 Pontiac or building big motors for his muscle cars, you realize this isn't just technical knowledge—it's genuine love for mechanical systems and problem-solving.

Whether you're trying to optimize your trolling motor setup or you just appreciate someone who truly knows their craft, this conversation is worth your time. Joe's the real deal, and this episode delivers practical knowledge you can actually use on the water.