Posts: 28
Location: Sauk Centre MN | I've noticed that my starting battery isn't charging while the motor is running. I've got 3 batteries in the boat. 2 for the 24v troller and 1 for starting and accessories (two graphs, livewell pump, bilge, lights. Sunday, my dad and I were out for about 3 hours trolling for northerns (he can't cast but loves to cut out y bones) the whole time with the big motor and I had charged the starting battery fully the night before (since it seemed low last time out when I only ran the motor for about 20mins). After about 2 hours my locator was flashing a low voltage warning. The warning is set at 8.5v. We had a couple in the livewell and I left the aerator/pump on for about 30mins (forgot about it). I may be wrong but shouldn't the motor running at idle the whole time keep that battery charged? Also, the starting battery is in its fourth season and so I'm picking one up today. I don't think I'll be on the water again for a couple weeks to test it with a new battery and need it to stay charged when I do. So assuming the old stereo I put in this spring isn't causing a draw, I've got three main questions..
1. Should I have all of my accessories running off the starting battery?
2. If the battery is good, shouldn't it stay charged if the motor is running all day?
3. How do I test the charging system if the battery is fine (i.e. replaced w/ new)?
Thanks for the help,
Dan |
