Battery Temperature Sensing Wire to Voltage Regulator

[Mike McDonald]

Hi everyone,
I have a question regarding the importance of a Battery Temp Sensing wire to the new Balmar ARS-5 Voltage Regulator that I will be installing in the spring.  I plan on installing the Alternator Temp sensing wire, but wondered how important the Battery wire is.  I would appreciate your thoughts.  I'm sure running the wire will be another adventure.  Thanks.
Mike....

[Ron Hill]

Mike : First of all it isn't that tough to run the wires (depending on where your ARS-5 is located). My ARS-5 regulator is mounted in the compartment under the head sink.

I'm sure that Mainsail will add, but it's important if the alternator is overheating and there is a shorted cell in a battery causing it to overheat - either could be very damaging. 
Beside I believe that Balmar sells those wires for batt and alt temp sense wires as a pair!

A thought                                   

[SailingJackson]

Hi everyone,
I have a question regarding the importance of a Battery Temp Sensing wire to the new Balmar ARS-5 Voltage Regulator that I will be installing in the spring.  I plan on installing the Alternator Temp sensing wire, but wondered how important the Battery wire is.  I would appreciate your thoughts.  I'm sure running the wire will be another adventure.  Thanks.
Mike....

I was on the phone with the Balmar guys yesterday on the same subject.  It becomes more important to install if your batteries charge acceptance rate is close to the alternator delivery rate, but it also helps because the temperature feedback allows them to slightly alter the charging voltage rate according to the temperature.  Seems that the preferred charge voltage when the battery is at 50F is different than at 80F.  My own battery bank is a couple of 4D Lifeline AGM batteries which can accept a charge rate of of 100A, but I do plan on adding the sensor in order to make the best possible use of the system.

Don't be afraid to call Balmar.  You don't have to struggle to get a knowledgeable guy on the phone.  It's a small place and they know what they're doing.

GTJ

[Mike McDonald]

Thanks guys, sounds like I should go for it.  I appreciate the feedback.
Mike....