Battery issues on 1994 240 Overnighter

[gil_happy]

Hello,

I currently own a 1994 SeaRay 240 Overnighter with a 7.4L MerCruiser Bravo I Stern Drive that is having an issue with the batteries. My boat currently has 2 batteries (almost 2 years old) which are controlled by a dual battery switch. After using the boat the past few weekends, the boat is no longer starting under its own power - I need to carry a Black & Decker Jump Starter in order to start it each and every time. Even after using the boat for hours at time (without turning the engine off), the batteries are still not taking a charge.

I?m wondering if it could be the alternator or some other issue? I removed both Marine batteries and had them tested at PepBoys. One test result was ?Battery is good but the state of charge is low. Check for proper charging system output for excessive key off electrical draw?. The other battery indicated ?Charge and Retest. Battery charge is low charge battery and retest?. I also checked the water level in the batteries which was good. So it appears that both batteries are ok, other than the low charge

Does anyone have any suggestions or recommendations?

Thanks in advance!

 

[180shabah]

Re: Battery issues on 1994 240 Overnighter

Does anyone have any suggestions or recommendations?

Charge both batteries and retest.

Test the alternator. You can remove it and take to pepboys to test or after the batteries are charged:
Take a voltage reading - should be around 12.8
Start the engine
Take another voltage reading - should be higher now. If it is equal to or lower than your first reading, get a new alternator. Remember it must be marine be rated.