Battery switch usage question on 2004 FV 250

amajamar

I have been reading differing opinions on how to set the battery switch and when.  I will be using a starting battery and a deep cycle/starting battery.  Some people recommend using the starting battery for starting and running and switching to deep cycle when anchored out etc.  Some suggest using one battery at a time for a day and alternating each day out.  

I see merits of both schemes, and ultimately it seems that having two deep cycle/starting batteries is the way to go.  Beyond that, my next question is whether or not the engine charges both batteries at the same time or only the one that the battery switch is set to?  I also understand that different boats are wired differently depending on how many batteries and engines, so people's opinions may and do vary.

I would like to hear what you guys recommend, as this is my first season as a boat owner! 

Thanks in advance!

Babyboomer

This should help

http://www.boattest.com/Resources/view_news.aspx?NewsID=3084

amajamar

Great link!  Thanks!  So when the engine is running do both batteries get charged because of the isolator??  Is that what the isolator is supposed to do?

Babyboomer

YES Sir

amajamar

Regardless of switch position? 

 

And one more question please.  If you are planning on doing electrical work on the battery side of the electrical system, is switching the batteries off as effective as disconnecting the batteries?  I notice that the isolator for one will still be powered even with the switch off, which is logical.  I don't want to blow anything up...!  What do you recommend?

Babyboomer

Yes to the question even in off your bilge & Fridge still work to the other question let someone else chime in on that one.