Re: Battery Switch
Switches don't have automatic battery isolators built into them and diodes don't act as isolators per se. A diode is like a switch - when it is properly biased it turns on an allows current to flow. Otherwise, it acts as an open switch.<br /><br />You must have left your battery in the "both" position. In that position, both batteries are tied together in parallel and hence, both can be drained. Otherwise, you have some sort of connection sowhere that is keeping those batteries tied together regardless of the position of the switch.<br /><br />In the "1" position only battery 1 will supply power and in position "2" only battery 2.<br /><br />When you leave the boat or are using accessories without the engine running you have to keep the switch in the "1" or "2" position to drain only 1 battery and leave the other for starting. When you are underway you want it in the "both" position to make sure the alternator is charging both batteries.<br /><br />If you want to automate the process so you don't have to remember to change the switch positions you should look into having a isolator or combiner installed. That will make sure the batteries are only connected when charging is occurring and will separate them when it is not.
