[C320-list] Battery Management

[Dave Anderer]

There's been a lot of good info in the other replies.  How to manage and
recharge your batteries can have a quasi-religious flavor, so just let me
add a few data points that may help you get through your upcoming trip:
Your boat came standard with 2 4D batteries.  If I recall correctly, these
are good new for around 160 AH each - for a total of 320 AH.

I've found that when on the hook in the Chesapeake, running the frig,
stereo, anchor and cabin lights (and not particularly attempting to
conserve) I use around 120 AH per 24-hour period.

I also found the standard alternator was good for putting about 25-30
AH/hour back into the batteries.

Hope that helps.




On Wed, Jul 1, 2009 at 10:36 PM, Paul Adison <pjaarch at verizon.net> wrote:

> I am brand new to this list and have owned my 320 for just a week.  We are
> leaving on a weeks cruise on Sat.  I am concerned about the drain on my
> batteries.  Much of the trip will be motoring so the refrig. will be
> charging for much of the day.  Can I leave the refrig on all the time, even
> while at anchor?  Is it best to run the engine for an hour prior to going to
> sleep and then turning the refrig off?  What does your experience tell you?
>
> Paul Adison
> S/V "Rough Draft" _/ )
> C320 #722
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>