I am in the process of trying to install a new Xantrex Truecharge 20 Plus on my 1989 Catalina 30. The previous owners have done some major modifications to the electrical system and I need some advise. The current system consists of a Ray Jef charger that is combined with a Guest Isolator. The output of the charger goes to the batteries and the Isolator off of the same terminal on the charger. The two wires are pigybacked on each of the two battery charger terminals. I would assume the other leg of the Isolator goes to the alternator. I would further assume that this set-up would work while under power only (assuming I keep it). The new charger is a a "smart" charger which isolates each battery and chargers only when needed. My next option is to hire a marine electrician, two problems; finding one that is available, and secondly my budget is close to being shot.
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Charger Installation
Warren, Keep it simple. Just wire the charger directly to the batteries, per the instructions, avoid the isolator. (Assume you have two banks.) Then spend some more time (and less $) by tracing the rest of the wires and learning more about electrical systems and your particular boat so you can figure it out yourself. Eventually, you'll want to eliminate the isolators, since all they do is waste a volt of power from any charging source. Spend your $ on Calder's Boatowner's Manual for Mechanical and Elctrical Systems and you'll never have to find an electrican, or pay one, again. Good luck, Stu
Warren, Keep it simple. Just wire the charger directly to the batteries, per the instructions, avoid the isolator. (Assume you have two banks.) Then spend some more time (and less $) by tracing the rest of the wires and learning more about electrical systems and your particular boat so you can figure it out yourself. Eventually, you'll want to eliminate the isolators, since all they do is waste a volt of power from any charging source. Spend your $ on Calder's Boatowner's Manual for Mechanical and Elctrical Systems and you'll never have to find an electrican, or pay one, again. Good luck, Stu
Good advice
Good advice, I have been waiting at the mailbox for a week for his book to arrive. Usually Barnes and Noble on line is very quick, not this time.
Good advice, I have been waiting at the mailbox for a week for his book to arrive. Usually Barnes and Noble on line is very quick, not this time.
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