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Jeff Jeff is offline
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First recorded activity by BoatBanter: Aug 2006
Posts: 390
Default trouble starting engine when solar panels are working

tom wrote:
This problem is more perplexing because a high voltage generally cures
more problems than it creates. I can only guess that one of the charge
devices is actually a drain in some situations.

Agreed, that's why I think it has to be something electronic (built in
safety
override thingy), I haven't tried to put a meter on it yet, just
thought maybe
somebody knew what it could be off the top of your head.
Note, the newer yanmars come with more electronics; engine panel/tach/
hr
meter. I don't like it.


I didn't find anything suspicious in my Yanmar panel, for 2GM20FC's with
saildrive, other than overly long, thin wires for the neutral lockout.
I'm a bit surprised it comes with the second solenoid. I was about to
add that to mine when I discovered the wire issue. This does lead to an
easy test - just short the "low current" solenoid output and see of the
starter solenoid trips.

Should electronics that are design for 12v be able to function at
14v? I would
think so.


Certainly anything that runs with an alternator active has to handle 15
Volts, or even a bit more. However, if your devices are unregulated
that could put out a lot more - 18 Volts or more. Still, I don't wee
where the problem might be so I'll be very interested in hearing abotu
the eventual solution.