charging question.

[blueagletalon]

I have a 1987 merc 3.7 470 motor. im looking to run duel batteries. now my question is can run two with the stock charing system?

 

[EddiePetty]

Re: charging question.

Certainly !! Our V-20 came factory equipped with twin batteries.

Just be certain to wire in a Perko multi-battery isolation switch.

The grey-er of my grey cells reminds me not to use the "Both" setting of the Perko if the battery(s) are really low when using the original stator charging system (Seems that it really stresses the already fragile water-cooled regulator).

 

[dubs283]

Re: charging question.

agreed Eddie

i see no reason why one wouldn't be able to run two batts on that charging system, assuming it is in good working condition

make sure the current system charges the one battery well - roughly 14.5 volts at 1500 rpm

also would be a good idea to check how many amps the current system puts out

as stated, a two position battery switch is a good idea, it allows one to charge both batteries while running and use only one for anchoring/listening to tunes while the other stays fresh for starting

 

[blueagletalon]

Re: charging question.

ok is there a kit i can buy? would an automotive kit i can use.

 

[dubs283]

Re: charging question.

not sure about a kit

like Eddie says, the Perko brand 2 position battery switch is a quality switch

you would just need to buy/make/have made battery cables and terminals, then wire the two batteries correctly

no need for automotive parts on a boat - sometimes its illegal to use auto parts on a boat

go to a reputive boat repair shop/dealer for parts and information

 

[cmontane]

Re: charging question.

Been there, done that. I installed the Perko switch in 2001 and have had good results. I always use two identical batteries. My Volvo-Penta 5.0 GL came with one battery. Also, I never use the Alternator in lieu of the charger. The Alternator is designed to give back what the engine took. Having two fully discharged batteries to feed off the Alternator is asking for trouble, the same for dissimalar batteries.

 

[Beefer]

Re: charging question.

I have 2 batteries on my 488, so I say go for it. As for a kit, check this out:

http://www.ezacdc.com/Scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=155