Upgraded alternator on a 376

[Russell R. Egge]

Considering upgrading the alternator on the 376. We are on a moring and I am forever running the engin to charge the batteries. Any thoughts and or words of wisdom?Russell"Allie Kat"

 

[Steve Dion]

Just two words

"SOLAR PANELS"

 

[Paul Akers]

I did it

We were never able to keep a good charge up during a cruise, so we upgraded to a 105 amp charger (55 was standard) for the Yanmar. We still charge twice a day because of refrigeration and the desire to keep ahead of usage. Had the yard do it for a cost of about $400.I've also seen some boats on moorings use a wind generator or passive solar panel. This always keeps the batteries topped off.

 

[Paul Bednarzyk]

Alternators

Paul, What brand of alternator did you place on your 376? Also what did you use as a regulator? I am considering changing to a Balmar 90-100 alternator with a Link 2000R to regulate the alternator as well as to monitor the battery bank. My house bank consists of four 6V golf cart batteries with a total capacity of 440 amp-hrs. Any comments regarding this setup? Thanks.Paul BednarzykS/V Knot Again

 

[Bill Sheehy]

Thats what we did

We put that same set-up on our Passage 42. We have had some problems but nothing could'nt be fixed. Don't know how much of our problems is because of living aboard.

 

[Arthur Boas]

Lotsa work

I have a 40.5, and just installed a full Link 2000R system with Balmar. You will have to rewire your batteries completely with mimium 1/0 cable, plus there's a whole bunch of other wiring from the Link panel etc. You will need the proper cable, ends, crimp tool, (do not solder), and some fairly good wiring skills. I also suggest you put in a Heart Pathmaker while you're redoing the batteries.For more info, you can email me direct aboas@cabletest.com

 

[Jerry]

Rewind

We took the alternator in and had it rewound. It was a 55 amp and now puts out 90. Cost to us was $68.00Jerry