[C320-list] alternator question

[Scott Thompson]

Isn't it standard to wire the alternator and starter in parallel to the batteries?  Saves an additional run of heavy gauge cable from the engine to the batteries.  The hypothesized break in question could be in the run from engine to batteries. A loose connection at the battery switch might do it, for example. Or a bad engine ground connection to the batteries. 

> On Jul 14, 2016, at 8:24 AM, Graeme Clark <cg at skyflyer.co.uk> wrote:
> 
> Ive never looked at the wiring in detail but why would an alternator be connected to a starter motor? Its output should be a heavier gauge cable that goes to the battery - possibly via a split charger depending on what's fitted to your boat?
> 
> Not sure if that helps or confuses. 
> 
> Graeme
> 
> 
> 
> Sent from mobile: please excuse typos etc.!
> 
> 
>> On 14 Jul 2016, at 13:13, <dmcnamara3 at woh.rr.com> <dmcnamara3 at woh.rr.com> wrote:
>> 
>> Hi
>> Thanks for the information.  So if I am thinking correctly, the only way to blow the diodes is to momentarily break the B+ wire from the Altermator to the post on the starter? the B- is ran thru a fuse and grounded, and the other two wires go to the tach and charge light/gage.  I still think I am missing the smoking gun.
>