POLL: What kind of dual battery isolator are you using with your Force/Chrysler

[95Bayliner]

Hey gang!

I wanted to take a poll to see what type of dual battery isolator people are using with the Force/Chrysler outboard motors. The main reason people install a 2nd battery or "house" battery is to prevent draining the starting battery from the use of other electronics (ie... trolley motor, stereo system, etc).

As most of you know there's various types of isolation components including manual switches (1/2/1+2/off), dual battery isolators (older technology utilizing diodes), and VSRs (Voltage Sensing Relay) or ACRs. I can provide functionality of each if needed.

It'd be helpful to provide details for the following:

1. Type of starting/cranking battery
2. Type of house battery, brand and reasoning
3. What's connected to your house battery
3. Type of isolator used, brand and reasoning
4. Any wiring tips
5. Any functionality gotcha's
6. Type of battery charging system and reasoning
7. Anything else that may be beneficial to others

Some of you may think this topic belongs in the Electronics section, but what I'd like to know is what Force/Chrysler owners use for this application.

Thanks y'all and happy boating!!

 

[pnwboat]

Re: POLL: What kind of dual battery isolator are you using with your Force/Chrysler

I have dual batteries with a Blue Sea manual switch (1/2/1+2/OFF). This allows me to disconnect the batteries both when not in use and just in case of an emergency. I use two dual purpose deep cycle marine batteries (COSTCO brand). I also replaced all the existing battery cables and added cables for the second battery with 2 gauge battery cable that I had from another project. I only use 1 battery at a time both for starting, stereo and GPS depth/fish finder. I really don't have much of a load on the batteries. Second battery is just there as a safety net as I often take long trips 40-50 miles one way in remote areas . I also upgraded the charging system from a 9 AMP stator w/rectifier to a 16 AMP stator with a regulator/rectifier. Hardest part was locating a spot for the battery switch, and getting the 2 gauge battery cables through the opening in the lower cowling to hook up to the engine block and starter solenoid.

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: POLL: What kind of dual battery isolator are you using with your Force/Chrysler

No isolator.
Just a Perko switch 1 and both and 2 and off.
1 750cca And 1 450
I run both as I go out,Then switch to one.

 

[95Bayliner]

Re: POLL: What kind of dual battery isolator are you using with your Force/Chrysler

I'm thinking I should upgrade my stator as well. I'm using a VSR and 16A should charge both my batteries quicker than the factory 9. Isolating house battery is great but recharging takes a little while at WOT after long nights of fishing!

Where did you find the purchase and installation directions for the replacement? Did everything align normally or did you have to modify anything?

I'm trying to tune my motor in hopes to make it last longer.

Thanks.