[C320-list] Battery Charger Update

[Jeff Smith]

To all,


So the new battery charger is up and running. At least I think it is running; it is so quiet you can't hear it (a welcome change from the ferroresonant charger.) In fact, as of right now, it is supplying 13.3v and 6.5 amps.


A few issues:


  1.  My boat ('94) has what I think is 8 AWG A/C supply wires for the battery charger. The Promariner Pronautic (1240P) requires 14 AWG (per the installation guide). While I was not worried about stepping down in AWG given the fuse on the circuit, there was no physical way to fit 8 AWG into the install area. So, I soldered 12 AWG onto my 8 AWG and made the connection that way. I also could not find (locally) any 8 AWG to 12 AWG butt connectors, hence the solder. I was able to get snap ring connectors for 12 AWG into the installation area.
  2.  It was suggested (and it was a good suggestion) that I mount plywood to my original screws and then mount my new charger to the plywood (to prevent drilling new holes). Unfortunately, the new charger is wider than the old charger and it would not fit between the new bolts. So I drilled new holes.
  3.  This is a head's up from my wiring misadventure. Because I soldered the line (which is in my aft port locker), I did not want to simply use electrical tape. I purchased a product that is called liquid electrical tape and it makes a water-proof seal. The instructions said it would dry in five minutes (for application of a second coat). I, however, did not read the second part. I applied a second coat after five minutes and then put power to it while tightening the mounting bolts. The liquid tape melted slightly (on the line and neutral wires), the two wires touched, and I got a nice arc that left a black mark on the fiberglass and tripped all of my circuit breakers. Thankfully I was not touching it at the time. NOTE: The liquid electrical tape dries to contact for re-application in five minutes but fully cures in 24 hours.

All is well now, though. Thanks for all of the suggestions and help.

Cheers,
Jeff
'94, #121