AC fails - HI PS only when underway

When I've had voltage problems, the system returns a "LO/AC" error code and shuts off. It usually happens when it's 110 degrees and I'm stuck at the end of a T-head and there ain't no juice left for the losers at the end of the dock. Have I mentioned I wish I had the "Boost" version of the Charles Industries isolation transformer?
 
Simple remedy, just unplug all the shore power cords that are drooping in the water and voila', more juice for the real boaters...
 
Final result was ????


Rob


I can't offer a final result but the status is as follows:

Evidently this is not a unique problem to my boat. Some of the the early model 50DA and 50DB have had the same issue. It seems to be a design flaw. Evidently the AC intake through holes are not in the optimum location. The issue has been corrected by either relocating the through hole toward the transom and close to the centerline of the boat or by installing a self priming pump. Not certain exactly how this will be corrected yet, Obviously I prefer the non-intrusive method, IE a pump.

We will be sea trialling with my mechanic and some clear hose to see exactly what is going on then decide what to do.
 
WOW....Atleast u know what ur up against.... we were all over the road....

Keep us posted...


Rob
 
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Before I drilled a new hole, I would look into a scoop in place of the current through hull. I had one on my 250 that I installed to operate a live well. When at rest, the pump supplied the pressure. While under way, the scoop provided enough pressure to force water through the system. This, combined with the pump, should provide you the solution you need. Don't do this with an engine! The cyclinders will get water in them.
 
Actually, scoops are fine (and recommended)for the mains (have huge intake scoops for my diesels), but are a no-no for gensets because the boat may be moving without the genset running. If someone were to try to tow you at twenty knots it might be a problem...
 
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Well here is the latest - sea trial today with my mechanic. He installed clear tubing and watched while underway. He clearly saw big slugs of air as I ran over any disturbed water. His diagnosis: design defect, his recommendation: Install a more aggressive scoop. We are making plans now to haul the boat and install new scoops then sea trial again.
 

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