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Posts: 437
| I have been researching various options for an onboard DC charger that will charge my trolling batteries while running the outboard.
I have a pretty good handle on the other offerings, but the Stealth system intrigues me a bit, but I would like to hear from someone who actually has used them. I know what the others are capable of so I am more interested in this one.
I did talk to the owner for about 45 minutes a couple weeks ago, but I like to hear from folks who are not affiliated with the company as to their experience. |
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Posts: 1096
Location: Hayward, WI | If I understand the Stealth properly it starts charging the deep cycle batteries as soon as start battery voltage is over 13 volts. That doesn't mean that the start battery is fully charged. I would rather have my start battery charged 100% before switching to the deep cycle batteries. With as many loads that also run off the start batter like depthfinders, lights, aerators.., I am more worried about that getting topped off first when I run the motor. |
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Posts: 437
| All of them function in essentially the same manner. When the start battery hits 13 volts they transfer power to the trolling batteries.the amount of power transferred and the manner in which they do it however is different. The minn kota is by far the cheapest but I am not concerned about price if I know a higher priced unit is better. |
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Location: 31 | I can't say the Stealth is better but still highly recommend that type of system, I'm also a firm believer in their claim that the batteries last longer too.
I currently have my best charging system ever now with it at the the heart of the system; the Stealth I, 2 on-board A/C chargers, and a 4 position gauge to monitor each battery individually. I've been using the same stealth charger on my last 3 boats, and would never own another fishing boat without one (it's a complete non-issue regarding the 13V deal).
The stealth not only works on the water redirecting the charge from both of the boat motors, it also works identically when you plug in an AC charger… very precise charging, and will never allow an overcharge of the 36 V batteries. Also, the four position gauge is important because it allows you know the battery condition before a trip, check both boat motor alternators, check both A/C battery chargers, and check if the Stealth is hooked up and functioning properly ($50).
When I bought this Stealth they did not have the piggyback A/C charger (which looks sweet), but the system still works well with any good charger (even a portable). However, it's more convenient just plug in one charger (I use an on board 6 amp to maintain). I still have the typical 20 amp 36 V on board charger for the TM too, and even though the guys at Stealth say it doesn't allow any current back feed, I still disconnect it from the 36 V with a circuit breaker before plugging it in.
If you want to drop me a PM with your phone number I'll give you a call when it's convenient.
Edited by Jerry Newman 3/19/2014 5:25 PM
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Posts: 437
| Jerry, thanks for the feedback! I have an onboard AC charger (MinnKota two bank) that I was planning to continue to use since it works fine. When I talked to the gentleman at Stealth he said we can hook the two together (he would provide more specifics if I went that route) and the Stealth DC would control my current AC unit OR I could just keep them separate. My thought would be to keep them separate because I know the AMP limits of my current AC charger and would prefer to give a bigger boost like I am thinking the Stealth DC will do when running the outboard vs "throttling" down to what my AC unit supplies (10 Amps per bank). I only have a 24 volt system, but thought about adding a battery strictly for my electronics (GPS units, lights, stereo, etc items on ACC switch) in the rear rather than having it run off my cranking battery which causes concern for me.
The piggyback unit is intriguing. I may end up doing that then selling my Minnkota for a song because I wouldnt have a need for it anymore.
Regarding the guage. I already have guages to check voltage in my boat, what does the Stealth guage offer over and above this? |
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Posts: 347
Location: eagle river,wis | Are they sold only thru there company or are they available elsewhere? |
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Posts: 437
| I believe they are only sold thru their site/company. I have not seen them anywhere else.
The guy I talked to was VERY helpful. Obviously very hands on with everything. He was not pushing me towards buying the whole "solution" either nor did he talk down about other competition. Very professional I thought.
Edited by Captain 3/20/2014 4:13 PM
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Location: 31 | Sure thing, no problem. My experience with the guys at stealth is the same; truly expert, very professional, fairly priced, and super helpful. Having attributes combined like that is a very rare commodity these days.
I just checked if the stealth AC battery charger hooked up directly to the battery, or if it charged via the stealth. It hooks up directly to the battery, so I don't really see a huge advantage for you to buy their battery charger except you know its top of the line and for the convenience.
If you're not going to pick up the stealth DC, I recommend picking up an inexpensive six amp mounted AC battery charger for the main battery, and for the maintenance of the TM batteries. This way you can still have your 24 V charger at the ready for overnight charging, but can use the more battery friendly 6 amp between trips.
The thing I like about that set up is the stealth will always safely redirect the charge to your TM batteries, (it’s still possible to overcharge your engine battery though because that charger is hooked up directly to that battery).
I do not use the battery gauge from stealth (although I'm sure it's excellent). I just picked up this model because I had a gift card, and it has worked out well for two years; http://www.cabelas.com/product/Battery-Gauges/700417.uts
I originally bought into the stealth technology about 10 years ago to help recharge the TM batteries from the boat motors because I do a lot of remote fishing, but have really come to appreciate the superior technology over the years.
I thought this was an interesting statement on their website; “Stealth1 is a battery charger not a smart switching device therefore not increasing the alternator output to make up for its loses.”
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Posts: 437
| Jerry Newman - 3/20/2014 5:48 PM
I originally bought into the stealth technology about 10 years ago to help recharge the TM batteries from the boat motors because I do a lot of remote fishing, but have really come to appreciate the superior technology over the years.
I thought this was an interesting statement on their website; “Stealth1 is a battery charger not a smart switching device therefore not increasing the alternator output to make up for its loses.”
That is the same reason I am looking for a DC charger. I wouldnt say I do a lot of remote fishing, but after spending a week on LOW last summer camping, with no electricity (did have generator though) I have been looking at ways to ensure my batteries were always charged. I looked into Solar panels, etc. No way would that be effective so this was my next thought (should have been my first  )
I thought the comment about the "smart switching device" is interesting because one idea I had was how about just installing a battery switch between the cranking battery and the trolling batteries? Start the motor with it on the cranking battery, then flip the switch to the trolling batteries so "in theory" it would be using the outboard alternator to recharge the trollers right?
I am sure I have a month or so to figure this out after getting another 10" of snow earlier this week. Grrr. |
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Location: 31 | I had a similar situation back in the 80s when I pitched a tent on LOTW for 3-4 days at a time, keeping batts charged was one of the bigger issues when I first started until I rigged my boat with a Johnson 12/24V TM with 2 sets of batts, separate wiring for each set, and a gauge so I could monitor them like you're talking about (Nothing like Stealth was available then).
Most of the time we would only need to run on the 12V, and when it got tired I would move the motor wires over to it, and then just plug in some fresh batts up front. With that set up I didn't need to lug around a bulky generator to extend my time away from the AC, and it was real nice to have the redundancy of two complete battery set ups just in case.
You could obviously switch them like you say, or if you have good access to your batts, you could even switch the batteries themselves too. But a true 24V is different than the 12/24V I was using, so I'm not sure if that might adversely affect the batts performance.
It still sounds like the stealth would be your best and easiest option though. If you decide to go with switching, be sure too keep extra wing nuts handy. 
Best way to order is to just call the 800 number with your CC handy.
Edited by Jerry Newman 3/21/2014 11:04 PM
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Posts: 76
Location: New Lenox, Illinois | Can anyone advise were you can purchase this. Does not look like they sell them directly from thier website. |
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Posts: 437
| You just contact them either via phone or email and they will contact you. They dont just sell these like a webshop. Search Stealth1 and that is the site. There is contact information there.
Great folks to work with. |
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Posts: 76
Location: New Lenox, Illinois | Thanks gonna give them a call
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Posts: 1901
Location: MN | Jerry or Captain, ballpark what does the Stealth DC unit cost w/o the AC or gauges? Are either of you familiar with the Stay n Charge and have any pros/cons? My understanding is they operate on the exact same principle, and both hook up to the cranking battery but are basically using the main outboard's alternator to charge the TM batteries. |
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Posts: 437
| I was quoted a price of $330 for the Stealth1 DC only. No guage, no AC charger.
I would say from a high level the principle behind the stealth1 DC is similar to other options on the market, but there are some subtle differences that I noticed. 1) the Stealth unit is completed potted and would be completely waterproof. The other thing I noticed is that all other DC systems would limit the total amp output to say 20 amps (10 per bank). From what I have been able to figure out with the Stealth1 DC is it does not limit that so you could actually have the full available Amperage from your OUtboard, example most are 40 to 50 (or more) amps.
Edited by Captain 3/25/2014 7:51 AM
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Location: Contrarian Island | not to hijack the thread but I have the Minn Kota DC charger as well as a couple friends and we have been very pleased... on lakes like LOTW where you make big runs, they are awesome.! keeps your batteries in good shape all day |
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Posts: 1901
Location: MN | I think the Minnkota Brad mentions is one that limits the amps to 10 per battery. Not sure about the Stay n Charge though, I think that is nearly identical to the stealth in principle, in that it will deliver whatever amperage the alternator has to give (within the confines of the 40 amp breaker I believe), and therefore will also deliver whatever each battery "needs", and only what it needs (no concern of "overcharging"). But that is why I was asking, not 100% sure. Good to know that the Minnkota works well with only 10 amps. If anything the others may work even better. |
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Posts: 437
| I installed my Stealth1 DC and Stealth Digital Gauge over the last few days. Being a mental midget when it comes to all things electrical I was freaking out about this project.
Well, after several calls to Stealth, countless Paint diagrams drawn, a ton of new wire connections I have them installed and WORKING!
I havent had the boat in the water, but I confirmed the unit is working as designed and in conjunction with my Minn Kota AC two bank charger.
First off, Danny from Stealth is a class act! He is extremely helpful and knowledgeable about this system and can step anyone, even me, through all the steps involved to confirm A) how your boat is wired B) make sure your installation is working to conform to the way your boat is wired.
I was VERY nervous going in. I received the unit on Monday. I am leaving for a LOW Canada camping trip this Tuesday and I was concerned I could get it installed, tested and make sure everything was working before my trip. I am very particular about everything and if I didnt feel comfortable with it, I would have taken it out and put it on the shelf until I got back home so I wouldnt have to worry about it.
Thankfully I will not have to.
I would say anyone interested in considering a DC charger, give Stealth a shout. They will really help you out and make sure you get the results you are looking for.
I will provide some feedback following my trip to see how it works, but in initial testing in my garage I was able to observe the trolling voltage go from 26.1 volts (static state of batteries) to 27.9 volts when the stealth1 DC took over proving that it was indeed charging my batteries.
I will hit the water with it this weekend to confirm everything functions because I literally tore apart half my boat doing this project and there were quite a few new connections made so I need to confirm everything works with the trolling motor, etc. |
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Posts: 347
Location: eagle river,wis | Ditto here.I took out my 4 bank charger and installed the complete stealth system.ac,dc and gauge in my Ranger.It did take awhile and lots of wire pulling but it is up and running and I am also heading to LOTW next tuesday for a month and will report back on how it works.
jeff |
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Posts: 437
| LOTW for a month? One word for you LUCKY! |
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Posts: 1901
Location: MN | Fastcast, what year and model Ranger do you have and which gauge did you pull out in order to install the Stealth gauge? I too just got the Stealth AC, DC, and gauge and got everything hooked up except the gauge this morning before the rain came. So I'll have to put that in later. I think in going to love this thing if it works half as well as I think it will. |
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Posts: 347
Location: eagle river,wis | the center gauge on my 2013 621 had a blank gauge with ranger in it.I bought a blank gauge and cut it in half.I drilled a 2 1/4 hole and installed the stealth gauge in it and then hooked it up.I have it reading 36volts and will call Danny and find out how to read both 12 and 36 volts on it.
jeff |
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Posts: 791
Location: WI | There are also isolation relays available that do the same type of thing. I installed one in a Mercedes Benz sprinter to control a aux battery that ran an inverter for a 36" led LCD TV and a Bose sound system.
Basically it linked your aux battery to your main battery and when the main battery was at 13v or more the relay closes which allows your charging system to charge both batteries. But when the main battery falls below 13v (meaning the charging system is inactive)the relay opens and steperates the two batteries. It also has a feature which helps boost your main battery with your aux battery while starting if the main battery doesn't have enough power. |
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Posts: 437
| As promised I am going to provide an update from my trip last week.
Spent Tuesday through Sunday (left in AM yesterday) on Lake of the Woods out from Sioux Narrows.
We fished on average 10 hours per day. Start by 8 AM daily, fish to around 1 PM for lunch then back out from 2:30 to 8:00 PM.
All fishing was done using the trolling motor. No big motor trolling. We sometimes slip drifted using the trolling motor, but mostly trolled between .4MPH and .8 MPH.
I never ONCE plugged in my charger to the generator we brought to charge it. Thats right, not ONCE!
At the end of each day the worst my batteries read as far as level of charge was 75%, while the first couple days it was 100%. When we arrived at the landing yesterday to load up it was again at 100%.
I arrived home yesterday late afternoon and plugged in my charger and its just a green light as in its fully charged.
I am SIMPLY AMAZED! I never expected the Stealth1 DC Charger to work this well. Honestly I was hoping it would buy me a couple days before I had to charge or at least longer days on the water with fuller charge, but it simply is amazing.
A little bit about the fishing spots. One spot is about 3 miles from camp (just a guess) and the other spots are probably the same distance away from that so there is a fair amount of running with the big motor to allow the Stealth to do its thing.
The results I achieved would NOT have been the same had it been a small lake, etc. That I am sure of so if you fish small water primarily you wouldnt see the full benefits of this.
The other boat charged his batteries 3 times with the generator. He asked me to give him the info about this unit and he is going to buy one before next year, he was that impressed.
All in all, VERY pleased with the results. Thought I would share for others who may have similar needs.
Edited by Captain 6/23/2014 8:20 AM
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Location: 31 | I'm glad you like it, I'm always a little nervous that somebody won't like what I endorse here.
Not only is it the nuts for what you described Cap, you will also find that your TM batts will last longer too. I still have a set of Optima’s that I ran for about three or four years in a previous boat, then 2 hard years in my motorhome… and they're still in my garage holding a charge.
Even for you guys who don't do any remote fishing, you can still utilize the superior stealth technology to have more battery power at the end of a day, and can maintain the TM batts off the water with a single six amp on board charger hooked up to the main engine battery.
I've cooked my TM motor batteries trying to maintain them with a typical onboard charger when the “automatic” part of the charger malfunctioned. Stealth will simply not allow an overcharge of the TM batteries when hooked up correctly.
Like I said; I'll never own another boat without one.
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Posts: 437
| One other side benefit I found is that my graph no longer turns off when I start my outboard. This is a problem many see as they run their electronics, radio, etc. I resorted to running a dedicated line which eliminated it, but when on this trip I used my original one the entire time and it never turned off once! Very happy with everything about this unit.
And thanks Jerry for your feedback because it certainly helped sway me. |
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