Battery charging and voltage readings

J

jcs707

Member
Joined
Jun 1, 2005
RO Number
17629
Messages
11
I have a new to me 1998 355 that has a Charles C-Charger 5000 series installed. On a recent outing I noticed the normal 12.6 reading on the port engine and 16 on the starboard.

In a non-marine application my inclination would be to say the voltage regulator on the starboard alternator 'might' be malfunctioning. However, thinking about this more - I'm confused by how I think the charging system is configured.

Since I haven't tracked down and documented how everything is wired - I'll pose these questions.

Should I expect to see the alternators connected to the batteries for charging underway? My assumption is yes.

If yes, what happens when I'm running the generator (while under way) which is then powering the battery charger - which is charging the batteries? Does that cause a problem?

Can both the alternator and charger be charging the batteries simultaneously?

The initial symptom, 16vdc on starboard was while underway, no generator running.

Thoughts?

/Clint
 
Normal charging voltage is between 13and 15V
12.6 is low for a charging battery. Should be above 13, the alternator or charger may not be working or the battery has a bad cell.
16 is a bit high for charging but first clean all connections and measure the voltage at the battery with a voltmeter.
There is no harm in having the charger and alternator charging at the same time.
 
I would turn off the charger when underway and using the generator.

G
 
Change your battery switch to the other battery and see if your readings reverse. I too have a '98 355, your battery selector switch determines the battery selected for starting, house and everything. the bridge reading on the 12.6 battery is the voltage of the battery in an isolated state. Your voltage readings will match when the selector switch in in the "both" position. I normally change the selector switch every weekend so I can equally exercise my batteries. I didn't build it, I just figured out how Carver built it.
 
I didn't build it, I just figured out how Carver built it.Getaway II...I was going to write a response as I too have a 355/356, but I could not agree with you more. As to running genny with battery charge/and engines with alternators on, no problem.
 
All - thanks for the feedback.

Bob - good info on the how the battery selector can effect the read-outs. I've been changing the battery selection every two weeks to keep them properly exercised - I guess I've not paid enough attention to what might have been going on with the voltage readings at the helm. Like I said, new boat to me - kinda overwhelming.

/Clint
 
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