basskisser wrote:
JimH wrote:
"Eisboch" wrote in message
...
" JimH" not telling you @ pffftt.com wrote in message
...

If the bilge pump has to be replaced it is an easy do it yourself
project.

You should not need a charger if the bilge pump is the only thing left on
when leaving the boat. In any case do not run an extension cord to leave
a 110v charger running..........you are inviting electrolysis problems on
your boat and those surrounding yours.

Might want to re-think that advise.

1. Bilge pumps can run batteries down during periods of heavy rains and
the owner doesn't get to
the boat often.
2. Electrolysis is not so much of a problem in freshwater.
3. If you are correct, I better go down to the marina and tell the 300
boats or so to shut off their
battery chargers that are left running all summer (and winter, in some
cases).
4. Properly set up and protected, the potential for electrolysis can be
controlled.

Eisboch


Fair enough. I was repeating advice I was given by a friend of mine who is
an electrical engineer with NASA. David Pascoe also agrees.
http://www.yachtsurvey.com/corrosion_in_marinas.htm

And electrolysis is a concern even in freshwater.

Remember, we are not talking about permanently mounted chargers but portable
battery chargers run off extension cords.

YMMV.

Eisboch didn't even come close to saying that electrolysis wouldn't
happen. He said it could be controlled so that it's minimal, and it
can. With it being correctly controlled, it's a hell of a lot better
than sinking the boat. Did you ask your electrical engineer whether
he'd rather control electrolysis or have his boat sink because the
battery ran down??


If the original poster was thinking of using a non marine portable
charger, and running ordinary extension cords from an electrical outlet
not properly grounded, and exposed to the elements, that would not only
not be prudent and but it could be deadly. Electrolysis could be the
least of his problems.

If he has his electrical outlet properly installed for marine
environment, and is using a marine shore power extension cord, it really
should not be a problem. David Pascoe article was emphasizing what you
need to do to use electricity safely in a marina, and what can happen if
people do not have their electrical systems properly grounded. I don't
know why, but I have NEVER had a problem with my zincs or the outdrive
corroding or showing any signs of electrolysis. If I did, I would
contract the marina immediately so they could track down the boat
causing the problem.