Battery Switch Operation

[BoLin]

The continuing saga of Bob's electrical nightmare ...<br /><br />I've got two batteries on my 20' Grady and a Guest battery switch. Switch positions are 1 / Both / 2 / Off. Boat power is an old ('77) 200hp Evinrude O/B.<br /><br />I've read conflicting info on changing switch positions. In the past I've read that once the engine is started you should never change the switch position as it may (probably will) damage the outboard. In the most recent Grady-White newsletter, however, they say that if you start the motor with the switch in the Both position (like I have to do), you should then change the switch position to either 1 or 2. But never to Off as this may damage the motor.<br /><br />Thoughts, suggestions anyone???<br /><br />Thanks,<br />Bob

 

[18rabbit]

Re: Battery Switch Operation

With modern battery switches, the info in that G-W newsletter is correct. The switches are 'make before break' so there is always a connection to either 1 or 2, your alternator is safe, and switching to 'off' will take out your alterantor if the engine is running.

 

[Omega-1]

Re: Battery Switch Operation

Bolin,<br />Good advice from 18rabbit. Allow me to add this bit: since you have an older boat (77) make sure that you have a 'make before break' battery switch. Check with the switch manufacturer to determine if your switch has a 'make before break' feature. If not, you will burn up your engine electronics. Hope this helps. Be safe.

 

[imstillatwork]

Re: Battery Switch Operation

will running without a battery hurt a 1981 evinrude 70hp? it comes with a pull start for emergency, and seems to run just fine...

 

[amirm]

Re: Battery Switch Operation

Not having a battery is a sure way to damage your electronics as the alternator voltage may shoot way up without a load. Not sure if anything on the engine can be damaged this way. Probably not.<br /> <br />Amir