[C320-list] CHARLES BATTERY CHARGERS

[jim brown]

Thanks very much Jeff. I was thinking of switching my original batteries out for "maintenance free" ones but was hesitant after reading the owner's book for the Charles. I'll contact them. 


Jim Brown



________________________________
From: Jeff Hare <catalina at thehares.com>
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Sent: Thursday, August 25, 2011 5:11 PM
Subject: Re: [C320-list] CHARLES BATTERY CHARGERS

Jim,

The older charles units did not have a switch for Gels or AGMs. Newer ones do.

However that doesn't mean you can't use them for these types. The only difference is the float voltage setting. Its really easy to set the float voltage on these units to whatever you like.

When I measured the float voltage on ours it was only a couple 10ths high of what lifeline suggested was ideal. They said it would be fine but Charles sent me directions for changing it and it was so easy I just did it. Slight turn of a screwdriver and I was done.

Also the float voltages across chargers may vary over time anyway even again the same model charger.

Something to keep in mind.

-Jeff



jim brown <jbrown5093 at yahoo.com> wrote:

Have a "stock" 30 amp Charles with no problems at all for 5 years. However, this unit is factory set for flooded lead acid batteries only. Apparently you can't use AGM's or gel cells with this unit. I suspect the newer units have provisions for either manual or auto modes for the newer batteries. Have to go, awaiting Irene in eastern NC. May need more than a charger come Monday.


Jim Brown



_____________________________________________

From: David Swanson <kswanson123 at comcast.net>
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Sent: Thursday, August 25, 2011 3:00 PM
Subject: Re: [C320-list] CHARLES BATTERY CHARGERS

Mine is a stock 30 amp Charles Charger and it works great.  I have read good things about the Xantrex Charger though.  I would guess that a newer 40 amp would be that much better.

Dave

David Swanson
S/V Emily Ann
2007 C320 MK II, No. 1107
Mukilteo, WA


On Aug 25, 2011, at 10:45 AM, JJ Morrison wrote:

>
> Any comments on these chargers? Thinking of a 40 amp unit and am looking around. Comments on Xantrex not all that positive.
> Cheers
> JohnM
> 1999#574  

David Swanson
kswanson123 at comcast.net