DeepImpactFishingTeam
Cadet
- Joined
- Dec 17, 2013
- Messages
- 20
With all the electronics/lights/downriggers/wash down pumps/etc/etc my 1985 30'sundancer has, I experience frequently voltage drops when more than a few items are running at the same time... Current battery configuration is three batteries, one dedicated to the port motor, and two group 27's dedicated to the house/starboard motor. The starboard has a standard switch which I leave in "combine' mode at all times.
First and foremost, I am doing some re-con work by checking the battery condition via hydrometer, load tester, etc, along with having the current (NEW in 2014) alternator tested to ensure both pieces are functioning properly. Then due to the age of the boat, I am also going over the existing wiring to ensure there isn't any corrosion not only the connections but in/on the wiring itself.
So far, all checked out - so lets talk alternator upgrade - the 55AMP stocker isn't cutting it anymore (or so I think?), so I've found 75AMP options that are "bolt in". I am interested in cutting to the chase and getting a proper 100+ amp alternator - what are my options? I know the charge wire will need to be upgraded as the factory wire (8awg?) won't cut it.
Also, since I am into overdoing it at times, I have thought about adding a 3rd group 27 deep cycle to the starboard to mitigate any drops under load - overkill? Stick with alternator upgrade ? Or scrap alternator upgrade and just add this third battery?
Looking for thoughts/ideas.
First and foremost, I am doing some re-con work by checking the battery condition via hydrometer, load tester, etc, along with having the current (NEW in 2014) alternator tested to ensure both pieces are functioning properly. Then due to the age of the boat, I am also going over the existing wiring to ensure there isn't any corrosion not only the connections but in/on the wiring itself.
So far, all checked out - so lets talk alternator upgrade - the 55AMP stocker isn't cutting it anymore (or so I think?), so I've found 75AMP options that are "bolt in". I am interested in cutting to the chase and getting a proper 100+ amp alternator - what are my options? I know the charge wire will need to be upgraded as the factory wire (8awg?) won't cut it.
Also, since I am into overdoing it at times, I have thought about adding a 3rd group 27 deep cycle to the starboard to mitigate any drops under load - overkill? Stick with alternator upgrade ? Or scrap alternator upgrade and just add this third battery?
Looking for thoughts/ideas.