[C320-list] Chargers...still!

[Jeff Church]

Brian,

I installed the 3012 about 2 years ago. It works very well, but if I had it to do over I might consider the TC40 instead. It just depends whether you need the extra features of the 3012.

In a simple situation like 2 similar batteries, the TC40 would probably recharge them faster than the 3012. On the other hand, the 3012 will charge a mix of battery types, and charge them independently. It analyzes the batteries every 15 seconds and then applies a charge to the one that needs it most. That way it can give one a float charge, another an absorption charge, and the 3rd a bulk charge. This is good if you have a smaller starting battery as it won't get cooked, and it can be a gel or AGM battery. The TC40 description appears to say that it charges different types and does so independently, but it doesn't. Download and read the manual. They all have to be of one type, and if one is in bulk they're all in bulk even if that little starting battery is already fully charged. Finally, if RF interference coming thru your audio system is an issue, the 3012 produces much less RF.

Xantrex's tech line and the folks at Jack Rabbit Marine are good technical sources if you need more info.

Good luck.

JeffC   
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Jon Vez 
  To: C320-List at Catalina320.com 
  Sent: Wednesday, April 23, 2008 5:59 PM
  Subject: Re: [C320-list] Chargers...still!


  Brian,

  I think you are making a wise choice--good luck...

  Regards,

  Jon Vez
  Solstice #582

  -----Original Message-----
  From: c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com
  [mailto:c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com] On Behalf Of Amirault
  Family - S&B
  Sent: Wednesday, April 23, 2008 6:01 PM
  To: c320-list at lists.catalina320.com
  Subject: [C320-list] Chargers...still!

  Jon:

   

  Thank you for your kind offer.  If I require replacement I will likely go
  new and Xantrex.

   

  Research shows that my local chandlery can supply the True Charge 20+ at
  282$, the 40+ at 372$, the XC3012 for 396$ and the XC5012 for 563$. These
  are all in Canadian funds. Although across the border West Marine is
  actually more expensive there are mail order where I can do slightly better
  on price but with shipping and border charges there is not sufficient
  savings to not support my local vendor. I lean towards the XC3012 for what
  it offers over the two less expensive models. Its design is also newer
  although I recognize newer is not always better.

   

  Launch has been delayed to May 10 due to ice in the harbour.

   

  Regards; 

   

  Brian Amirault

  Waltzing Bear, too