"The Floating Bear" wrote in message
k...
In article ,
(Steve) wrote:
I think complex electronic regulators is a step in the wrong direction.
My problem is that I am forgetful, and I can imagine that I would cook the
battery or alternator too easily if I had to remember to do any switching.
Mind you, I am talking about a 35A alternator on a Yanmar 1GM10
(replacement Japanese unit as the Yanmar one died comprehensively and it
was the Devil's own job getting one that would fit. I think if I were
doing it again, I would do the engineering to take something very standard
like a Lucas or Bosch automotive unit. My batteries are an 80AH unit for
engine starting and a 110AH service battery, so it's all a bit different
from the serious installations that some people are discussing. However,
it's only about 10 mins motoring from my mooring to where I start to sail,
so I'd like to get charge in as quickly as I can. Mind you, when I switch
in the service battery with the 0-1-2-both switch, I get a significant rev
drop on the engine even with my poor little 35A alternator. However, a
controller that let me get more of the 35A out usefully would be very
handy.
The modern charge controllers that I am familiar with all full-field the
alternator
during the bulk portion of the charge. Mine actually ramps the current up
gradually over less than a minute to reduce stress on the system. The
alternator
is kept a full-field until the batteries reach the absorption voltage. The
goal is
to charge the batteries as quickly as is safe while looking out for the
health
of the batteries. A manual system can;t do any better. Also, temperature
compensation is important as well if the batteries are expected to have a
happy and healthy life.
Doug
The Plath AutoMAC II sounds just the thing - I don't suppose anyone has a
circuit diagram and/or knows if the components would still be available?
Regards,
Jerry