[C320-list] Charles Charger Inverter Problem

[Alan Goodman]

Crosby - One test to run on your batteries prior to replacing them is a 'load test'.  You'll likely need the marina service department to conduct this test since most individuals do not own one.  The load tester device checks a battery under an applied electrical load, simulating the real life circumstances when you try to draw current.  Remember as a teenager ... the done light would work, but the car would not crank?   Good voltage under no load (i.e. the light) and failure to deliver current (bad voltage under load from the starter).  My guess is the charger is ok, but it sees a state of 'full' battery charge via the battery's voltage ... a misleading indicator (since no load applied) if a battery has this problem.  Let us know the outcome ... sort of like stump the chumps on Car Talk !!!   lol   Alan  hull #67 Holland MI

> From: c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com
> [mailto:c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com] On Behalf Of Crosby Roper
> Sent: Tuesday, June 07, 2011 8:36 PM
> To: c320-list at catalina320.org
> Subject: [C320-list] Charles Charger Inverter Problem
> 
> 
> Hi All,
>  
> I have Hull # 1054 with the 30 Amp Charles charger-inverter. I went down to
> the boat the other day to go for a sail and found that the batteries were
> too low to start the engine. I re-connected the shore power and was able to
> start the engine without a problem. While out, I ran the engine for a good
> 40 minutes and the batteries seemed to charge, as I was able to restart the
> engine several times without any problem. Went down to the boat again
> yesterday and the same thing.  WHile she is at the slip, I do leave the
> Fridge running, so I think this is what is draining the battery. The Amp
> meter on the Charles will initially reads in the 20-25 range, but quickly
> (Within 10-15 seconds) drops to the 5 range, even though the batteries are
> low. I took off the face panel and changed the AC and DC fuse, but the
> problem still exists. 
>  
> Not sure where to go at this point. I've e-mailed and called the Charles
> service department today, but have not had a response.  I'm hoping one of
> you smart engineering types can help. You see, I got a C- in college physics
> so I couldn't figure this stuff out 30 years ago, and am apparently no
> smarter now:)
>  
> Thanks for your help.
> 
> Crosby Roper, VMD
> Tethys 
> San Diego, CA