I have a Honda 8 HP outboard. It comes with a battery charger. Seems very straightforward to hook it up ... but I am bothered/puzzled by one thing.
With most engine alternators setups, we're constantly warned to never disconnect the battery (eg, turn battery switch of Off) while the engine is running, because that will fry the alternator.
But right now the battery is "disconnected" from the alternator, in that I don't have it hooked up at all. As far as I know there is no switch to "turn on / enable" the alternator. Why has my alternator not already been fried, simply by not yet hooking it up? And when I do have it hooked up, will it be bad for me to turn my battery switch to Off with the motor running?
I am sure there is a simple concept I am missing, thanks in advance for your explanation. The owner's manual doesn't say much about this.
With most engine alternators setups, we're constantly warned to never disconnect the battery (eg, turn battery switch of Off) while the engine is running, because that will fry the alternator.
But right now the battery is "disconnected" from the alternator, in that I don't have it hooked up at all. As far as I know there is no switch to "turn on / enable" the alternator. Why has my alternator not already been fried, simply by not yet hooking it up? And when I do have it hooked up, will it be bad for me to turn my battery switch to Off with the motor running?
I am sure there is a simple concept I am missing, thanks in advance for your explanation. The owner's manual doesn't say much about this.