Charging question

[KeyWestBoater]

Hi. Its been a while.

I have a 2008 Yamaha 70 hp 2 stroke on a KW1520. Last couple times out while running, my battery meter showed from 12.2 to 12.5. My low voltage warning on my Humminbird came on. I called the dealer and he said to bring it in. Anyway I picked it up this week and he said it was charging correctly and they load tested the battery and that was ok. I know I can adjust at what point the low voltage warning comes up. Does this sound correct?


Thanks,
KWB

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Charging question

Check it with a hand held meter at the battery. You may have a voltage drop up to the dash.

 

[KeyWestBoater]

Re: Charging question

What should the voltage be at the battery when the engine is running?

Thanks,
KWB

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Charging question

With the engine at idle, battery voltage should read about 12.6. However, since alternator output is not very high at idle, if you have a radio, lights, locator, live well pump or other stuff running, voltage may drop below 12.6. That's telling you that more current is being consumed than the engine is generating. As you raise engine speed to 1500 RPM or more, the voltage should rise to 13.5 - 14.5 give or take a tad. Again, the voltage rise may not be instantanious and it depends on how much stuff you had in operation prior to the test. After a few minutes of running though, voltage should be at or near the upper end of the 14.5 volt range. If it is still in 12.6 or less range, there is a charging issue.