Adding 24 Volt light

CalCpeKid

Cadet
Joined
Apr 30, 2008
Messages
16
Is there a way to add a 24 volt search light to my 12 volt two battery system?
 

Silvertip

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Sep 22, 2003
Messages
28,771
Re: Adding 24 Volt light

If your two batteries are wired in SERIES -- YES. If they are in PARALLEL or if they are connected through a dual battery switch, ACR or Isolator, absolutely not. With two batteries you can have 12 volts or 24 volts. You cannot have both EXCEPT, if the batteries are wired in series and you are NOT using a battery switch, you can pull 12 volts off just one battery for accessories, and you can run 24V trollers or your light. HOWEVER -- you cannot use this system to charge both batteries from the engine. Attempting to do so will damage the engine electrics.
 

CalCpeKid

Cadet
Joined
Apr 30, 2008
Messages
16
Re: Adding 24 Volt light

Thank you. Now I just have to find out how to wire it to protect the system and make it user friendly.
 

Silvertip

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Sep 22, 2003
Messages
28,771
Re: Adding 24 Volt light

You do understand the difference between SERIES and PARALLEL? Why don't you describe how your current dual battery configuration so we can help you avoid a mistake.
 
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