|
|
|
|
alternator, voltage regulator question
In article ,
wrote:
I agree a modern, self-contained car alternator is a much better
alternative than this money ripoff boat nonsense with the $300
regulators. Batteries are just too simple...float 'em and they work
great. .
This got my attention.
An older sailboat ('79) I just purchased, has two West Marine SeaVolt
gel batteries and what appears to be the stock alternator that came
with the Perkins 4-108. I see no external regulator.
Should I replace this old alternator?
I wouldn't
If so, can I use an automobile regulator?
I wouldn't, due to incredibly high humidity in the engine compartment.
I was pricing exactly what you panned - marine alternators like
Balmar with external regulators and echo chargers linking house to
starting battery.
It certainly would be far cheaper if I could use a car alternator.
We added a small (12w) solar panel. While on our weekends and 2+ week
annual vacations, we hardly ever need to charge with the engine. During
the week, the panel tops the in-use battery full-up. When we drained the
in-use battery to 10v one night, the panel pulled in enough power to get
us started by 11. (probably earlier, that was just when I got around to
turning the key.)
--
Jere Lull
Xan-a-Deux ('73 Tanzer 28 #4 out of Tolchester, MD)
Xan's Pages: http://members.dca.net/jerelull/X-Main.html
Our BVI FAQs (290+ pics) http://homepage.mac.com/jerelull/BVI/
|