As usual, Maine Sail blows me out of the water!!!! As one who consults his web site often, this one is amazing. I didn't realize some of this and I don't consider myself ignorant on somethings "battery" Thanks very much for this, and I doubt that my zantrex charger would do the complex maneuver that Maine Sail suggests. Still, it is something that will stick with me for a while. Maine Sail has correctly analysed the root of the problem I am having by questioning the commissioning procedures of the batteries. The answer is I don't know and the dealer from whom I bought these remains aloof and as helpful as a worn out battery. I will continue to measure thee SOC and SG and see what happens. If I have to junk the batteries, I think I will change brands. I never thought I would say that. Many thanks.
To jviss, yes I am new to the board because I spent most of my time on the old CSBB and moved with them to here. The boat is a 1982 Pearson cutter with a Universal 5444 diesel. 1985 hours. Twelve years ago, I rewired her and replace the standard alternator with an Ample Power small case, 100 amp unit. The v belt is 1/2 inch. Even though you can sense when the alternator engages (when oil pressure reaches the where it should) I have not noticed nor have I seen excessive ware on the belt and no wear on the pullies. For regulation, the ample power, Next Step three stage one continues to work after all this time. Ample power has changed somewhat, for example, I don't think they make the EMON, or monitor anymore. Thanks again, Mike Meier---I will add more.
Thanks again, M