[C320-list] Batteries

[Allan S Field]

No Scott, you would not need to change the alternator for AGM or Gel.  As for the size of the alternator, I am not sure in your case as the C320's came with different engines - i.e., Yanmar and Perkins and maybe Westerbeake - over the years.  My C320 came with a Yanmar with a stock, internally regulated, 55-Amp alternator.  I eventually upgraded to a 125-Amp alternator, added a starting battery, and went with a 55-Amp battery charger on the C320.  Even then, the 4D's remained the same.

Allan S. Field
Sea Shadow - C387, #103
Columbia, MD

-----Original Message-----
From: C320-list [mailto:c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com] On Behalf Of Scott Westwood
Sent: Wednesday, July 11, 2018 1:15 PM
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: Re: [C320-list] Batteries

Does bring up another question related to batteries.  If I do change to AGM:
1. Will I need to change the Alternator?2. How can I tell the existing Alternator size?  Have to assume it is original but???

 
Thanks,
Scott Westwood scottwestwood at bellsouth.net H (919)-362-8538    C (919)-618-7185

      From: John Morrison <sail-ability at sympatico.ca>
 To: C320-List at Catalina320.com 
 Sent: Wednesday, July 11, 2018 1:06 PM
 Subject: Re: [C320-list] Batteries
   
If U we’re going to the Caribbean I say go with the AGMs. One of the best characteristics of AGM is that they will accept a very high rate of charge so you should replace your alternator to a 100amp +. If you are just cruising NA and alongside most times then in my view stick with the flooded cell. 
Cheers
JEM 1999#574

Sent from my iPhone

> On Jul 11, 2018, at 7:26 AM, Scott Westwood <scottwestwood at bellsouth.net> wrote:
> 
> OK.  Another loaded question:
> I am trying to dig into the decision to replace the existing battery(ies) or switch to AGM.  One of my Liquid Batteries is toast and needs to be replaced.
> AGM batteries are more than twice the price and it will "likely" mean replacing my existing charger.  I need to verify that but I am assuming, for now, that I will need to replace the charger I just installed 3 years ago.
> I understand the value of non-liquid AGMs and not having to keep re-filling distilled water, heeling not an issue, etc....
> If I go ahead and go to AGM and replace my charger, then I might as well go ahead and get an upgraded monitoring system.  Right now I have the old analog rocker switch and I would go/add a digital one that would show the current load.  I always like the thought of knowing how much current you are drawing "right now".  I added a remote panel monitor for the charger when I replaced it so I have some sort of monitor but would be nice to know current draw.
> A co-sailor is suggesting I move to the West Marine 4D  at $790 each... while I can replace the existing liquid LA for $280 each and keep my charger.
> Does anybody have any experience with longevity of the AGMs?  If they live twice as long it might be worth it to do it all now.  If not then I don't see the value.  I can replace these LA batteries every 5+ years and save boat units.
> May even think about adding a start battery??
> Any thoughts out there?  Has anybody re-done all this and have models/pics/experices etc....  Projects on the website?
> I said it was a loaded question(s). 
> Thanks,
> Scott Westwood scottwestwood at bellsouth.net H (919)-362-8538    C (919)-618-7185