Best way to power new stereo & VHF radio

[cigar_stub]

I'm just splurged for a new GSP/Fishfinder (Humminbird 757c), stereo and VHF radio for my 19' center console. I'd planned to power the GPS from the same source as the current fishfinder. But I don't know the best way to power the two new items.

There are two unused fuse slots on the fuse box. But I assume all that comes from the 12 volt battery for the engine. Since the stereo is something that would be used ancored up, would it be better to take power for it from the one of the two batteries used for the 24 volt trolling motor, so as not to worry about running the main battery down?

Any input would be greatly appreciated. Only have the boat a month and wanted the electronics in place before heading to the bay.

 

[QuadManiac]

Re: Best way to power new stereo & VHF radio

Not a great idea to take anything off of just 1 of the trolling batteries. Do you charge them separately with 2 12v chargers, or in series with a 24v charger. iF in series, then drawing one down will cause it to undercharge and the other to overcharge, reducing capacity and lifetime on both.

If you charge them separately, then it's not really that bad as long as you keep them charged regularaly and you don't mind losing time on troll, traded for the stereo.

 

[cigar_stub]

Re: Best way to power new stereo & VHF radio

I believe the 2 bank charger that came with the boat charges the batteries seperately. Each has an individual cord to the charger with a seperate LED that illuminates when that battery's charge is complete.

As for troll time, if I'm fresh water fishing and trolling, the stereo would likely be off. It's when anchored and having lunch, or pulling a tube, that a little SRV or Koko Taylor would hit the spot.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Best way to power new stereo & VHF radio

None of the three devices you are installing draws squat for power -- with the exception of the stereo if you also have a couple hundred watt amp. Either of the trolling motor batteries won't know they have a slight additional load and the sevice life difference will be measured in hours -- if there is any difference at all. Be prepared for a discussion on this topic. There will be two sides to the discussion -- one based on experience and the other based on theory. My feelings are that what you want to do is an acceptable. The only issue you may have is interference from the trolling motor or some pulsing in the stereo from the locator on weak stations. My stereo and console mounted locator runs off the starting battery, it's on constantly and has never run the battery down. Besides, I carry jumper cables so I can jump from one of the troller batteries if the need arises.

 

[cigar_stub]

Re: Best way to power new stereo & VHF radio

Thanks for the input. From just a wiring perspective it's much easier to use the empty fuse locations already on the boat from the main battery. I think I'll start by wiring them that way for now.

Actully, I called a fellow today who was recommended by a friend. This fellow comes to the house with a van and does just that, install marine electronics. Since I've now have to go away this weekend, if his pricing to install these things is reasonable, I may take the lazy way out so it would be finished and ready to use for the following weekend.

I never considered having such things done for me in the past, but the older I get the more value I place on my free time.

 

[QuadManiac]

Re: Best way to power new stereo & VHF radio

And as outlined in my last sentence, I agree with Silvertip. Experience and science agree on this one.