Batter switch question and roasting diodes

[lake_time_2]

I have 3 larger batters on the boat I just purchased. 2 are in parallel and one is stand alone and they are connected via a rotating battery switch with the usual 1-2-ALL OFF options. My question is I remember reading about not switching the switch when the motor is running…. Does this mean not at all?? say between 1 and 2 or 2 and ALL or just not to the OFF position.<br /><br />Thanks as always Dave

 

[SlowlySinking]

Re: Batter switch question and roasting diodes

Hi lake_time_2, given that the current flowing through the switch may be high when hot switching you run the risk of switch contact <br />arcing which will eventually destroy the switch.<br />Then there's always the potential of ruining the ignition circuit or engine battery charging circuit when hot switching, these electronics don't like the transient voltages that occur when hot switching. I suggest you turn the battery switch with the engine off. Good luck.

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: Batter switch question and roasting diodes

Lake..... There are two types of switches. One is called "Make Before Break" which means that the next connection (Battery #2) is made before the initial contact (Battery #1) is broken (disconnected). It is safe to switch this type switch with the engine running. It will list this type connection on the package. You can also check the switch out with an volt/ohm meter.<br /><br />If on the other hand, the switch is a "Break Before Make" type switch, DO NOT attempt to switch batteries with the engine runing as that could damage your charging system (diodes).

 

[Mumblerone]

Re: Batter switch question and roasting diodes

Take a look at www.perko.com You'll have to hit a few buttons to get to the switches. You'll get some info there. Better to read it yourself.

 

[lake_time_2]

Re: Batter switch question and roasting diodes

Thanks guys... as always this is great.<br />Dave

 

[grandx]

Re: Batter switch question and roasting diodes

Do not turn switch off with engine running. The only type of switch you should use is one marked "make before break" other wise you will be swithing off before back on again.

 

[Beaux]

Re: Batter switch question and roasting diodes

You CAN turn switch to "off" postion while the engines are running but ONLY if your battery switch has a alternator field disconnect properly hooked up. Not all battery switches have this option. Post which switch (brand and model # ) you have and it will be no sweat to figure out what is safe and not for your setup. Good Luck

 

[lake_time_2]

Re: Batter switch question and roasting diodes

I check perco's web site and the one I have has not got the alternator field disconnect option. Thanks as alwasy for your help and I'll be sure to to switch when running the motor.. Dave

 

[Beaux]

Re: Batter switch question and roasting diodes

well Lake, you have a good brand switch(perko). YOu can switch to any of the positions while the motor is running or not except to OFF. Only time you can switch there is when motor is not running. Good Luck

 

[Boatist]

Re: Batter switch question and roasting diodes

Lake time 2<br />I agree with Joe, you can turn if have the make before break but be sure not to turn off. The switches that have a alternator field disconnect are more for external alternators like an I/O has or a big outboard with belt driver alternators. These alternators have a field winding and if your charging and remove the battery the voltage output can go to 1000 volts or more and blow your output diodes and regulator which usually have a rateing of 50 PIV (peak inverse voltage). Only takes a fraction of a second. Safer to not turn with the engine running.