2 bank charger

[t8764]

New boat dosnt have a charger and I am looking to add one. Right now I only have one battery but soon what to add a second. If I buy a dual bank charger what should I do with the extra two wires for now? Looking at a two bank ProMariner charger.
Thanks
Erik

 

[ttmott]

I guess you want the batteries separate from each other (ie one for the engine and one for other loads) yet be able to charge both from the engine and / or the charger right? So the most appropriate method is to install an automatic charging relay (ACR) between the batteries and get a single charger connected to either battery. This way the engine will charge both and the charger will charge both. In your plan, add the single charger now then when another battery later all you need to add at that time is the ACR. Simple and probably cheaper. Blue Seas makes a good ACR.

 

[t8764]

On my last few boats I have just used a switch and not a ACR. I am use to useing the 2nd battery as a back up or a jump start if I need it. I was thinking maybe get a two bank charger and tape the ends off of the 2nd bank for the time being but not sure what the charger would do to the one that wasnt connected? Also maybe put both sets of wires on the same battery but not sure what that would do?

 

[Bob & Sue]

First thing you should do is go to Promariners website and download a manual. Even a 3 bank charger can be used with 1 battery there are no battery cables coming out of the unit unless you install them.

 

[Paulie Walnuts]

If the cables are installed, I believe there is an inline fuse on each positive charging cable. I would just leave the fuse out of the unconnected cable so there would be no chance of shorting out your charger.