[C320-list] Electrical problem

[Dave Anderer]

Seems that all agree that replacing the ProMariner is a good idea.  However,
there are a number of chargers out there besides the Xantrex 20 - I'd
suggest some research rather than just assuming the Xantrex is your only
choice.

My boat had a Xantrex 20 installed by the PO.  Personally, I never liked the
screw connectors for attaching the battery cables.  I thought the 20A unit
was a bit undersized for 2 4Ds.  And when it died a year ago, Xantrex
wouldn't repair it, but would just offer a not-very-good discount on a new
unit.

I'd suggest starting with the charger review that Practical Sailor did a few
years ago.

If you do go AGM, make sure that both the charger and the regulator for the
alternator can be set to change them appropriately.

Dave
#642

On Tue, Jan 12, 2010 at 8:48 PM, Mike Paris <mparis495 at gmail.com> wrote:

> I'm going to buy new batteries. Are there any potential problems with me
> just replacing the batteries? Mainly, could I damage the new ones if there
> is some unknown problem at the source of my electrical troubles.
>
> Secondly, wet cell or AGM? The West Marine price for a wet cell is $292 and
> an AGM is $539. Is the AGM that much better?
>
> Finally, should I replace the ProMariner with the Xantrex 20 just on
> principle? It doesn't seem to be giving me problems but many have strong
> feelings against the ProMariner.
>
> Thanks,
> Mike
> #734
>