On a Westerbeke 58
We're dealing with a mostly dead alternator on the Nonsuch 36, running a Westy 58. We're looking to go back with a Balmar. Waiting to hear back from them regarding pricing and availability. My fiance's in charge of this project, but from what I understand, if they don't have the 100 amp available, I think the issue of wire guage comes into question wether we up it or go down. He was thinking a 9 series, (912-100) but now he's thinking a 6 series (621-100-sr-ig) with 2" mount foot and add a double sheave pulley. They're phasing out the 9s. I unfortunately don't know about the Westy 27. Realize that's a different engine size and boat than you're asking, but at least you're not alone in trying to come back with a Balmar. It may be worthwhile to sit still on the alternator and any other expensive changes till you've had a chance to get the know the boat really well, and how you use her systems. I'm slowly restoring my own little Marshall Sanderling 18 and pretty much gutted her--all of the wood was rotten-- before I ever got the chance of sailing her. Sometimes it's hard to continue with all the work not knowing what she'll feel like underway when I finally get her all back together. Think about spending your first year sailing, and then you can use your next winter to do upgrades and make changes. There is an upgrade on this boat I am very happy about. It's the Toilet. Electric Flush, and a household size bowl. If there's an upgrade you want to do now, that'll make your wife deliriously happy with you (especially if she knows the old practically tea-cup sized bowls like I do), try to upgrade in toilets. Worth every penny. To the extent that fiance is going to do that upgrade on his Hans Christian, and he's buying his parents a similar model for their anniversary to go on their Cal 46 ketch. Please make sure to use the proper hose so that smells don't leech. And yes, I disappeared entirely for that upgrade.
