Balmar external regulator not lighting; no apparent alternator output

Jul 27, 2011
5,134
Bavaria 38E Alamitos Bay
This morning I started the diesel engine but my Balmar ARS-5 regulator did not come on. It worked last night but not this morning:doh:. The tachometer did not work, nor did the fuel gauge meter. No engine hours were recorded. Lately I've had a problem with the ignition switch not springing back fully after starting. How are all these symptoms related? Might I need a new regulator and switch, etc.

KG
 
Jan 11, 2014
12,900
Sabre 362 113 Fair Haven, NY
The ARS needs a power source, if that source is through the ignition switch, then checking that circuit would be a good start. Check the ARS manual for the recommended wiring.

I doubt you need a new regulator, a new switch is a good possibility, check all the connections first.
 
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jssailem

SBO Weather and Forecasting Forum Jim & John
Oct 22, 2014
23,093
CAL 35 Cruiser #21 moored EVERETT WA
From your description of the symptoms, I would start with the wiring. Specifically the start switch. Look for loose connections, burnt wires, fuses etc. Your DVM is your friend. :biggrin:

Now if you would prefer a new regulator, then often dashing out and buying one will, when attempting to install it, disclose the wiring issue. It is a two fur resolution. You get your new bling and discover the electrical issue.

Chasing electrical issues with a smile requires a certain mental derangement syndrome.
 
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Jul 27, 2011
5,134
Bavaria 38E Alamitos Bay
Thanks for the replies. I installed the Balmar alternator and external regulator in 2017 which is about 1000 engine hr ago now. The ignition switch is the original one, making it 25 yr old. It gets wet a lot (outside) as it is near the cockpit sole. Water deposit might be impeding the spring-back action. I’ll check out the connections but in the meanwhile I’ll be getting a new switch regardless. If the switch does not spring back, the starter bendix remains engaged w/the flywheel, I believe.
 
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Feb 26, 2004
23,035
Catalina 34 224 Maple Bay, BC, Canada
KG, just jumper the power (not start) terminals in the back of the switch to see if the ARS turns on. Dave and Don are right.
 
Jul 27, 2011
5,134
Bavaria 38E Alamitos Bay
Thanks Stu. I've discovered that the switch was not still "on" after the engine started. Diesel is running now and all appears well, but the switch needs to be replaced. It's acting, as someone said, "flakely." But some operator error also occurred. This happened yesterday as we were preparing to leave Emerald Bay an hour after our checkout time off the mooring. I had already fiddled with it but did not come up with the correct remedy :doh:. So, we shut down the fridge and other electrical consumers except nav instruments. Hooked up the solar panels, and sailed home. Nice afternoon sail. Could have done that anyway!