[C320-list] Battery charger selection

[Warren Updike]

1) Hodges: I don't know much about them other that I've seen their web site
on several occasions over the past few years.  I just bought my Xantrex 40A
charger from them and I can tell you that the process was clean, easy, and
fast.  It shipped in a day and was here about 4 days later, standard
shipping.  (I designated one of my credit cards for internet use. I set the
credit limit at the lowest level the issuer allows. Some cards will send you
an e-mail notice if a transaction is over a pre-set amount that you
determine. This minimizes the risks associated with on-line purchasing.)

2) Size: Depends on your needs. For our boats with 2-4D batteries, and the
refer being the largest continuous load, a 20A is probably minimum.  If find
yourself in situation where you need a fast charge, then a larger output is
needed.  Nigel Calder has a side-bar in his book on sizing a charger.  If
you're interested, send me an e-mail off-list and I'll scan it and send it
to you.  This goes for anyone else interested.

3) Installation: Basically, it's easy. If you are replacing an existing
charger it's mostly a plug-and-play situation. Both the remote display and
the temp probe cables are like cat-5 cable with modular plugs on each end.
They just plug into the unit.  The included cables are 25'; but, the max.
length cable of 50' can be purchased from an Xantrex dealer (or made
yourself.) The temp probe merely connects to a battery post like any of the
other cables.  There are some other considerations such as ventilation; but,
the included instructions are very clear and complete.  

Hope this helps,
Warren & Pattie Updike
1994 C320 #62 "Warr de Mar"



-----Original Message-----
From: Ronniew326 at aol.com [mailto:Ronniew326 at aol.com] 
Sent: Monday, November 29, 2010 7:52 AM
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: Re: [C320-list] Battery charger selection

This thread on battery chargers is timely for me in as much as my original  
Pro Mariner (14 years old now) is starting to make odd noises and is likely 
 on it's last legs.  I researched the 40 amp Xantrex on line at several  
vendors last week and the Hodgesmarine price, especially with the remote and

battery temp device that comes with it, is a very good deal.
A few questions however:  (1) Is Hodges a reputable dealer as far  as we 
know (I hate putting my credit card info out on a site I'm not familiar  
with)?  (2) Is it better to go with the 40 amp than the 20? (I'm plugged
into 
shore power all the time except when out sailing). and (3), how difficult  
should I expect it to be to install the unit, the remote and the battery
temp.  
sensor?  Any feedback on this subject will be greatly  appreciated.
 
Ronnie Williams
C-320 # 326  
 
 
In a message dated 11/23/2010 1:12:55 A.M. Central Standard Time,  
kirk.mccullough at telus.net writes:

Hey  Warren, you are going to love the Xantrex. I installed the 20 Amp  
model
about 3 years ago and it's so much better than the Newmar HDM 50. I  don't
think you'll get much for yours, mine is sitting in my garage, I'll  
probably
recycle it soon. 

You got a great price on that 40 Amp  Xantrex too, as I recall I paid that
much for the 20  amp.

Kirk
Boomerang #124 Perkins

-----Original  Message-----
From:  c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com
[mailto:c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com]  On Behalf Of Warren Updike
Sent: 21 November 2010 05:01
To:  C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Battery charger  selection

I've finally done it.  I chose a new charger.  My  choice was for the 
Xantrex
TrueCharge 2 40A which I bought from  Hodgesmarine.com for $285, delivered.
This is a promotion package running  through Dec 10, that includes a remote
panel and temp probe.  Such a  deal.



My first choice would have been the Newmar PT charger  that was highly rated
by PS.  At more than twice the price of the  Xantrex, it is out of my range
especially since I have to get also two new  batteries.



The other charger I considered is the IOTA  Engineering DLS series.  At $161
(ebay) it is a serious  contender.  Specs are strong when compared with the
TrueCharge  2.  Drawbacks are: not UL Marine Rated (but is sealed and
protected  from moisture;) doesn't offer an external temp probe (my 
batteries
are in a  compartment separate from the batteries;) and, it doesn't offer
separate  settings for wet/get/agm batteries (I hope my next set will be
AGM.)   IOTA was quick to respond to my inquiry and impressed me as a 
company
with  good engineering and support.



So, now I have a Newmar HDM-50  for sale.  This is a ferro-resonant, 50A
charger (see manual  (www.newmarpower.com/pdf/Manual-HDM.pdf)  It is not a
three-stage  "Smart" charger; but provides bulk and absorption stages.  
There
is  nothing wrong with it.  It works well.  Probably not the best unit  for 
a
live-aboard or if you leave a refer on all the time.  However,  for a fast
recharge at the dock, it is a great unit.  I'd like to get  $100 for it; 
but,
for this list a best offer will do it.  



Warren & Pattie Updike

1994 C320 #62 "Warr de  Mar"