Switching Batteries

[eelaforge]

Can I use a 3 position (On-Off-On) toggle to switch batteries for my trolling motor? I have 2 batteries onboard, 8ga wire runs from stern to bow on both of them. Question is, would the switch heat-up since power is only passing through and the trolling motor is utilizing the power? Not an electrician, so I just need to know the capabilites. Probably a dumb question, but if you don't ask you don't know. Thanks.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Switching Batteries

Anything the current passes through on its way to the motor and back to the battery will heat up and burn if it is not capable of handling that amount of current. That's why wire size, connectors, switches, and terminals must be the proper size. So to answer your question, if the switch you are using cannot handle at least 40 amps it is too small and very likely is.

 

[Big Keepers]

Re: Switching Batteries

Ditto, get yourself a Perko or Blue Sea battery switch that can handle some amps and wire the stuff up right.

 

[bhammer]

Re: Switching Batteries

I have seen some swithces that can handle 20 - 25 amps. I don't know the current draw on your setup but the real problem is the wiring to the motor from the battery and switch. For long runs, you will need some hefty wire for larger current draws, making it very difficult to connect the wire to the switch. I'd go with a Perko that is made for this type setup.

 

[eelaforge]

Re: Switching Batteries

Thanks Guys... Any words of wisdom on the BEP 701S battery selector? Is it worth it or is it too cheap?

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Switching Batteries

that is the most irritating avatar.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Switching Batteries

That one will work. Remember that depending on how long the cable runs are, you will need to size the wire accordingly. If the batteries are at the back of the boat and the motor at the front, you will need 6 or 8 gauge wire depending on the size of the troller. 8 gauge will work for a 55#, 12V motor if the batteries are at the front. 6 gauge if they are at the rear.

 

[triumphrick]

Re: Switching Batteries

Geeez, TD, hope you haven't been seeing them lights behind ya much lately.

 

[eelaforge]

Re: Switching Batteries

that is the most irritating avatar.

Imagine how irritating it would be if I were following you. Might even cost a few bucks. Buckle-up, Stay Safe !!!

 

[eelaforge]

Re: Switching Batteries

That one will work. Remember that depending on how long the cable runs are, you will need to size the wire accordingly. If the batteries are at the back of the boat and the motor at the front, you will need 6 or 8 gauge wire depending on the size of the troller. 8 gauge will work for a 55#, 12V motor if the batteries are at the front. 6 gauge if they are at the rear.

Thanks, I appreciate it.

 

[bhammer]

Re: Switching Batteries

that is the most irritating avatar.

Personally, I think anyone with motion in them are, but that is just IMHO. But it does sound like you have harbored bad feelings for those red and blue lights.