Ryk wrote in message . ..
On Thu, 16 Oct 2003 23:19:59 GMT, in message

Jere Lull wrote:

Parallax wrote:

Although I have few elecrical gadgets to use power, I do worry about
having enough juice to run my VHF and running lights and am also
partial to having a small fan. Auto-pilot is also nice on long runs.
So what happens if my batteries accidently get run down?

Changing my mind: Best is two battery banks. Only draw from one at a
time, but always charge both.

Going that way would make me feel I was wasting the untouched bank. I
have two identical deep discharge house batteries (came with the
boat). Running on "All" minimizes the degree of discharge by spreading
it across the batteries, but leaves me open to running down past
engine starting capability. My solution is a "booster pack" -- a
sealed, self contained battery unit with jumper cable clamps that can
be used to jump start cars. Mine weighs about 10 pounds and cost about
CDN$60, making it a way simpler and cheaper bit of insurance.

Yes I know that a "better" solution would be a separate cranking
battery and associated switching.

Ryk

I looked carefully before installing the used 2GM and didnt see any
pawls for the hand crank to engage, maybe as a previous poster
suggested thee is one beneath a cover. I had serious trouble hand
starting the 1GM as I just cannot get sufficient hand torque in the
odd position I have to be in on my 28' S2. Its just damned awkward.
I have considered drilling a hole thru the engine compartment bulkhead
and making a crank extension so I can hand crank from the main cabin
but gave up that idea when I installed the 2GM. Is this still
feasible?


Another idea for a prop generator. Voltage should be directly to
speed.....so, who really needs a knotlog?