[C320-list] Charger Inverter suggestions

[Dave Anderer]

I've toyed with the inverter idea, but haven't done it (yet?)  But  
some things to keep in mind - note that a 2000 watt inverter will draw  
something over 200 amps from the battery at peak load.  So:

- The inverter should be located as close to the batteries as is  
reasonable
- You'll want some honkin-big cables from the battery to the inverter  
( 2/0? 3/0?)
- Even with the engine running (I'm guessing the stock alternator is  
around 50 A) you'll be sucking the batteries down quickly

Installed correctly, an inverter can handle large loads for brief  
intervals, or small loads for a more extended period, but not large- 
and-long.



That means
On Mar 19, 2008, at 11:13 PM, Magnuson's Ragtime wrote:
> I was reading with interest the posts last month about replacing the  
> onboard chargers. Mine needs to be replaced, and I would like to go  
> with an inverter charger unit to gain the AC feature while underway.  
> Our BVI Charter boat had an inverter, and we usually ran the engine  
> while we made breakfast, using the toaster and microwave.  Any  
> suggestions as to Models and brands?  True Sine wave vs. Modified  
> Sine wave, and would my stock alternator need to be replaced on my  
> 1995 Perkins? The boat is 500 miles away, so I am not sure of it's  
> capacity.   I know I need to calculate my loads, but I am confident  
> that the 2000 watt size should be enough.
>
>
> Thanks,
> Gary Magnuson
> Time-A-Weigh  # 205