Unless you are constantly using the engine and charger it won't really help the battery that much I would think. Solar is also somewhat the same as it won't get you much charge unless it sits for hours during the day and you have enough panels. You really need a generator like a small Honda 2k...
Sorry to hear you issues with the vests. Neither of us in in your weight class, so I would imagine we will have better luck. I have tested mine and no issues. I don't jump in the water with it inflated though. More interested in it inflating when I accidentally fall in. Inflating it first will...
We bought two of these. Will float you unconscious face up. Auto inflate, manual inflate or mouth inflate if needed.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B8TDPTCR/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1
I am partnering with a slightly older gentleman than myself who is in the same boat. Has some issues as do I and we will try and keep an eye on each other. One requirement is auto inflating life preservers for both of us. I used to have to find people with a boat to go with and had trouble. Now...
We have had rains but they have to fall in the watershed. Getting rain right now but we would need at least weeks of worth of steady rain in the watershed to do any improvement to the lake.
Down here in Central Texas where I am. It's due to lack of water. Lake Travis, one of the closest largest lakes near me is over half empty. It seems. All the boat ramps are out of the water.
I can't take credit for the photos as they were from people that were with me on the center line. The ones posted here were mostly from a co-worker. I tried with my cell phone and other cameras but mine were bad compared to theirs. Glad you enjoyed them!