battery voltage reading 18 amps

[Cobiaexcel]

I purchased a 1995 wellcraft excel 26se this summer. Replaced both batteries, and the alternator, and I get low voltage 10-11 volts, only on number 1 battery. Negative lines, and positive all very secure and in good shape. I assumed that maybe there might be a loose wire within the battery selector switch on number 1 battery. The 50 amp breaker does need resetting, and that will jump the voltage up to 13 volts. This breaker will trip out on number 2 battery, but does not effect it's operation at all. The past few boating times, I am now getting 18 volts off the alternator on number 1 battery only, could this still be a result of a loose wire within the battery switch? thank you, chris

 

[Don S]

Re: battery voltage reading 18 amps

Have your alternator tested at a start/alternator/electric motor shop (not an auto parts store) the can also fix it for you cheaper than buying a new alternator.
Also have both of your batteries load tested.

 

[Cobiaexcel]

Re: battery voltage reading 18 amps

Both the batteries, and the alternator are 1 month old, and they check out okay. I don't understand why this would only happen on the # 1 battery, and not the #2, unless something is going on with the battery selector switch. I was going to wait until fall take-out, but hope to investigate this wiring sooner. Am I missing something here? thanks for your help

 

[skydiveD30571]

Re: battery voltage reading 18 amps

The battery switch only does just that, switches back and forth. It can't increase voltage. Feel free to eliminate it by running straight to battery 1 then straight to battery 2 and note the differences.