It’s time to replace my SeaRay charger that came with my 1987 MK1 C34. I just replaced the batteries with Series 31 wet cell 115 amp hour batteries. The old SeaRay is still charging good but I have no idea whether this old charger is “smart” or not.
I want a charger that will charge in multiple stages, automatically maintain and condition the batteries as needed. I also don’t want to break the bank. What are thoughts on the GUEST 5 amp 2 bank charger? This charger is also available in a 10 amp 2 bank capacity.
Thoughts? Not so good.
You didn't say how big your bank is, nor how you cruise, but if you look in the 101 Electrical Systems topic, you'll find this:
Wiring a new charger From Maine Sail:
http://forums.sailboatowners.com/index.php?threads/marine-battery-chargers-installation-tips-considerations.136765/#post-880275 and
http://www.pbase.com/mainecruising/installing_a_marine_battery_charger
Much food for your thoughts. Happy hunting.
Quote from: Stu Jackson on August 13, 2018, 02:27:24 PM
Thoughts? Not so good.
You didn't say how big your bank is, nor how you cruise, but if you look in the 101 Electrical Systems topic, you'll find this:
Wiring a new charger From Maine Sail:
http://forums.sailboatowners.com/index.php?threads/marine-battery-chargers-installation-tips-considerations.136765/#post-880275 and
http://www.pbase.com/mainecruising/installing_a_marine_battery_charger
Much food for your thoughts. Happy hunting.
Two batteries 115 amp hours each for total of 230. Limited cruising at this time. Mostly day sailing, but overnight anchoring out soon.
James, do you have a fridge?
Yes, Adler Barber by Dometic CU-100 air cooled.
James
the "waterproof", 5 amp, 10, amp, 20 amp chargers like the Guest ChargePro (I burned out one w/ (2) Group 29s) and the ProMariner ProSport (I burned out one with (3) Group 31s) are meant for small battery banks and open bass boats -- NOT my C30 sailboat battery needs and certainly not for the banks on a 34.
Pay them now or pay them later -- you'll be replacing it (as I did, right after the warranty ran out.)
I recommend at least a ProNautic 1230P -- or a ProNautic 1240P would be better because it will "work" much less time, and MTBF is based on operating hours.
BUT your choice (and this goes for Randy also) VERY MUCH depends on your available recharge time vs. the amp -hours used. For instance, if you have too small a charger, say a 20 amp, just for instance, it might run 100% of the time overnight to replace what you took out. A 40 amp charger might run 50% of the time and therefore last much longer. ** these are just theoretical examples, and your mileage will vary.
-ken
Ken
Thanks for the excellent advise and recommendations. This is exactly what I'm looking for. I'll check out the recommended chargers.