Voltage Regulation and AGMs

[j.hunter9999]

Hello one and all.

To those that are still able to sail after November, you have my envious cheers. For the
rest of use, engaged in refitting our boats, at least winter allows us to get a lot done.

Speaking of refitting, I am replacing the electrical in our Vega. We are still running the
original MD6A with the original alternator. I am also replacing the existing batteries with
AGMs this year (with a separate starting bank beneath the cockpit).

As such, I've been considering both voltage regulation and battery sizes. Since I'm going
to AGMs, I'd like to keep them in the forward part of the bilge (where they are currently
located). Is anyone else using 2 AGMs that fit in that location?

Also, with regard to voltage regulation, what type's of voltage regulators are people using
with the original alternator? I can't find an external regulator on the original alternator.
So, I assume it is internally regulated. Is it advisable to install an external regulator or not
necessary?

As always, thoughts, stories and comments are welcome.

Pura Vida,
JH

 

[j.hunter9999]

By the lack of reply's I'll take it that nobody is using voltage regulation with their original
alternator and also isn't using AGMs. Perhaps that means considering a different course
of action.

Thanks,
JH

 

[mageekenneth]

I use 3 group 27 gel cell batteries, but My engine is a 18hp Yanmar with a 55A alternator with internal regulation. I have installed a Battery Monitor that regulates charge to both banks (2 house) in the bilge & (1) Starting mounted very close to where the rudder post goes through the hull under the cockpit floor. I chose to put the third battery there instead of extending the bilge platform to accomodate the third battery. The gel cell batteries are sealed and do not vent, and work when submerged.

I realize this info perhaps is not too helpful, but maybe you can glean something for your own use. I opted against the AMG. As with all of this equipment selection it is just personal prefernce A whole laundry list of reasons why or why not to do something or the pros and cons of the equipment can be debated for ever. Choose good products that come from reputable companys and that have decent local support and I am sure the upgrade will be very nice. Keep it simple, and save a buck when you can.

 

[stevebirch2002]

Hi JH

I have used the Sterling Alternator Booster/Charger/Regulator. Not cheap but certainly gets teh battery charged faster, deeper and more efficently.

Cheers

Steve B