Hi.
It seems to me that the engine ignition key/lock (on stbd side of bulkhead
below companionway step) is very vulnerable to accidental damage (when
cockpit is crowded) and to ingress of water/shorting out?
And of course if you somehow manage to loose the key overboard life gets
interesting - even with a cork float on the keyring..
Also I have installed a toggle switch just inside the companionway step to
make/break the alternator field line. When starting in winter, I leave in
OFF position then once engine is started I switch to ON and alternator
starts generating power. This makes "cold cranking" much easier. (Of
course if some genius toggles it OFF while engine is running I risk
blowing the alternator regulator).
I plan to replace this setup by a waterproof (??) push-to-make button that
will replace the action of the key:
push button == energise main relay that supples current to starter motor
push button == also energise small relay that *breaks* the field line to
make cold starting easier.
Have I overlooked anything?
(I'm not sure what to do about the charging light - maybe just retain the
existing wiring?)
I'd hate to blow the alternator regulator... and I have a healthy respect
for the starting current - even at 12V.Thanks,
John
Vega 1447 Breakaway
John A. Kinsella Ph: +353-61-202148 (Direct)
+353-61-333644 x 2148 (Switch)
Mathematics Dept. e-mail: John.Kinsella@...
University of Limerick FAX: +353-61-334927
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