Correctly using 2 batteries

[Admin5]

What is the proper way to use 2 main batteries with a perko switch with settings 1,2,both or off? The reason for the question is to make sure I am keeping both charged yet minimize the chance of draining both.<br /><br />Do you start the day out selected to both for a while to make sure you have charged both or do you just pick 1 for a while and then move it to 2 after another while? Do you ever run it on the both setting or just one one battery at a time? Thanks! >> Leaving work early to go take the fam out on Utah Lake this evening

 

[tommays]

Re: Correctly using 2 batteries

I would install one of the fine battery isolaters you sell here and you will no longer have to worry about the switch <br /><br />tommays

 

[ZmOz]

Re: Correctly using 2 batteries

Originally posted by tommays:<br /> I would install one of the fine battery isolaters you sell here and you will no longer have to worry about the switch

Bingo! <br /><br />This way one battery is always full for starting, the other gets drained, and both are charged at the same time...automatically.

 

[Solittle]

Re: Correctly using 2 batteries

I start by making sure that both are fully charged before I pull out of the driveway. I start on BOTH then switch to #1 on the way out and then to #2 for the way back.

 

[BrianS.]

Re: Correctly using 2 batteries

Why wouldn't you keep it on Both until the motor is off and then switch to just one for any power you may need? But while the motor is running, I don't see why you wouldn't want it in Both position?

 

[vipzach]

Re: Correctly using 2 batteries

BrianS, that is exactly what you do, leave it in the both position while the motor is running. When you turn the motor off switch it to either battery to run whatever accessories are hooked up, if it goes dead, then switch to the other battery for starting the boat and then you can put it back into the both position to charge while heading back to the dock. <br /><br />Note: You need a switch that has a "make before break" or you can damage the alternator.

 

[JB]

Re: Correctly using 2 batteries

Never used a switch. The only dual battery setup I ever had I used an isolator to keep the starting battery from runnning the troller, etc.

 

[phatmanmike]

Re: Correctly using 2 batteries

i use BOTH whenever im running, and if i stop for a while to hang out, swim, listen to radio, whatever, ill switch it to #1. this way, iff i drain it down using radio or lights, i still have #2 to start back up with.<br /><br />thats the theory behind the switch and duals

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: Correctly using 2 batteries

I ditched the batt switch a couple of years ago and installed a VSR, totally automatic