On 2/8/2014 12:30 PM, Larry Bradley wrote:
> Jim:
>
> I originally was going to use a DC-to- DC converter to charge the start
> battery, but that struck me as over-kill. Actually, the way I use the
> boat (we live aboard it all summer), the engine doesn't get used too
> much. I use a 185 watt solar panel to charge the house batteries, and
> can also charge the start from them if I chose. If we are in a marina, I
> can use the battery charger to take care of both batteries.
>
> But occasionally we do travel under power for a few hours, and that's
> when I'd like to have the start battery charged from the alternator.
>
> I've got a few ideas from this group on how to proceed.
Wow, Larry, 185w is enough to use for a household?

You need to get separate deep-cycle batteries for the boat, such as NiMH=20
for the household duties. SLA batteries are too heavy for a boat. SLA=20
batteries are prone to fail after 18 months or so; NiMH batteries will=20
last 5 yrs or more; some Prius autos have gone 8-9 years without needing=20
replacement.

While lithium-based battery packs hold more charge per weight, they are=20
more expensive than NiMH, and they catch fire easily- when they do, they=20
are difficult to extinguish. I try to stay away from lithium as much as=20
possible.

--Bob A

--=20

The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary.

VINCE LOMBARDI

--=20
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