[C320-list] Voltage Regulators- New thread away from batteries

[Jeff Hare]

Hi Scott, 

I used to have the Ample Power NextStep regulator in the past. (High End to the point of geek level).  Don't recommend them really unless you have the urge to diddle a lot of settings that make virtually no difference and like a ton of precision wiring.

Today I use the Balmar MaxCharge external regulator driving an AmpTech 125se (125Amp alternator) which is charging a pair of Lifeline 4D AGM batteries which are hardwired in parallel and indirectly charges an AGM Automotive starting battery through a Xantrex Echo Charge.  

AmpTech (in Texas) makes a great alternator that's a less expensive than Balmar's alternators with (I think) higher output and better thermal performance.

For Shore power, I use a Charles 60a charger.

For linking all this together, I ditched the stock 1-2-both and house panel and installed a Blue Sea panel similar to the 8080 which has an Engine On/Off switch for the Starting battery, A House On/Off which powers the house from the 4D's and an emergency Parallel switch that switches all your batteries in parallels in case you need to also use your house batteries to help start the engine.

I still have my Ample Power E-Mon II (energy monitor/controller) that lets me see all the currents, voltages and discharge rates.  (There are better units out today from other sources like Victron that aren't such a pain in the butt to install).

-Jeff Hare
2001 #809 Woodbine II

-----Original Message-----
From: C320-list <c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com> On Behalf Of Scott Westwood
Sent: Thursday, July 12, 2018 8:11 AM
To: Catalina List <c320-list at catalina320.com>
Subject: [C320-list] Voltage Regulators- New thread away from batteries

My search for battery replacement takes me to the next phase of my education: Regulators.
What regulators have people used?  High end and mid range.  I try to NOT use low end anything unless.....
Every answer breeds new questions.....  I thought I was too old for school..
Never stop learning...I know.  Love it.  Just wish I was retired and could focus full time on this.  Coming soon.
Where can I educate myself on regulators? Thanks, Scott Westwood scottwestwood at bellsouth.net H (919)-362-8538    C (919)-618-7185