[C320-list] Balmar MC-614 question

[Scott Westwood]

Good Stuff.
I "might" install a switch for that (SME).  Doesn't hurt to install one.  With that switch closed, however, the Alternator Temp sensor is bypassed/disabled).  If I do install the switch I plan to not use it for long periods.  I want the sensors on line.  Personal preference.
The only time I think it would make sense (to me- other thoughts/preferences may vary) is if  you need the extra engine power against a strong current and wind??  I will probably let the regulator do its job most of the time.
You risk not being able to sense Alt temp though....






Thanks,




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

    On Sunday, February 24, 2019, 10:13:38 AM EST, danny jensen <danny at jensenshouse.com> wrote:  
 
 Scott,
What a big project. Congratulations.

RE the Balmar 614

  1. I used the BSS 12v leds.  I'm running Aux1 pin 16 and Dash 17 to the
  panel. Here is a picture
  https://c320.org/mediagallery/popup.php?s=20131126200212892&sort=0
  2. I ended disabling the buzzer. I would highly recommend you wire a
  switch between pin 5 and pin 6. This is small engine mode (SME)and will
  reduce alternator output to about 30-40amp. If your not in a hurry to
  charge your thirsty depleted batteries, this setting is good. In fact, I
  just leave SME on unless I'm at anchor and need a fast charge. Mostly my
  lead acid batteries are charging about 30A anyway. My next project is
  adding a 180ah bank of LifePO4 batteries I'm working on now. It is a fun
  project but a bit dangerous! LFP batteries will burn out an 100A alternator
  so the SME mode will be a good thing. I'm going to charge the LFP
  3. Reminder ! make sure your run a wire from pin 9 Pos sense directly to
  your battery terminal. I didn't do this and I'm needed to do this.

Danny




On Fri, Feb 22, 2019 at 5:27 PM Jeff Hare <Catalina at thehares.com> wrote:

> Hi,
>
> 500ma is the max current draw on that signal.  I'd just use a 12v
> indicator LED that you can get anywhere.  Blue Sea sells panel mount LEDs
> that are easy to install and draw about 1.5ma when they're on.
>
> https://www.bluesea.com/products/category/36/23/LED_Indicator_Lights
>
> -Jeff
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: C320-list <c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com> On Behalf Of
> Scott Westwood
> Sent: Friday, February 22, 2019 7:07 PM
> To: Catalina List <c320-list at catalina320.com>
> Subject: [C320-list] Balmar MC-614 question
>
> For those of you that may have a Balmar MC-614 regulator on your
> alternator, I am looking to find the lamps and/or alarm for the Aux1 and/or
> Dash lamp outputs.
> I would like to install them but  thought I would ask what/where anybody
> found 500 ma lamps to use.  Maybe even an audible alarm for the Dash lamp??
> I have just started looking and thought I might cheat and ask here first.
>
>
>
>
> Thanks,
>
>
>
>
> Scott Westwood scottwestwood at bellsouth.net H (919)-362-8538    C
> (919)-618-7185
>
>