New Battery and Switchbox Woes

[andy6374]

I've been told in the past that a brand new battery has the possibility of frying a switchbox. This actually happened to me 2 seasons ago. The engine ran, but it was time for new batteries. Put in two new batteries, and one of the switchboxes died. Replaced it and was good to go. I just got a new battery and I'm afraid to use it. Could I just ground the new battery for a second or two and get the "initial charge" off the battery?<br /><br />-thanks<br />andy

 

[Chris1956]

Re: New Battery and Switchbox Woes

Andy, I believe that is untrue. I have installed many batteries in my boat over the twenty-plus years I have owned it. I still use the original switchbox.<br /><br />I am assuming you are connecting the two batteries together in parallel (12Volts) rather than series (24 volts).

 

[andy6374]

Re: New Battery and Switchbox Woes

Yep in parallel. It just may be a coincidence. However, a local reputable mechanic has told me he has seen plenty of switchboxes get blown by new batteries. Maybe coincidence, maybe improper hookup of batteries...nevertheless it has happened to me.<br /><br />Thinking about the wiring of the system it doesn't make sense that a new battery would do that. The only voltage the switchboxes get is from the stator. Unless your key switch is damaged and in that case a surge of voltage goes through the wiring that feeds the merc switch (possibility???)<br /><br />Who knows... I guess I will just get over it. <br /><br />-thanks<br />andy

 

[Laddies]

Re: New Battery and Switchbox Woes

Andy, if your engine has alternator driven CD ign. the battery has nothing to do with the ign, system and will not effect it unless it has a bad ign. switch, just as Chris has said

 

[andy6374]

Re: New Battery and Switchbox Woes

Yep, i wasn't disagreeing with Chris. Just throwing out what I've seen and heard. <br /><br />Like I also said though, it shouldn't have an effect. Thanks for the reaasurance though Laddies.<br /><br />-andy

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: New Battery and Switchbox Woes

I haven't ever blown a switch box by installing a new battery.But to take it a step further,I've replaced many switch boxes in boats with loose battery terminals.Damn those wing nuts !<br /><br />Just suppose the boat won't start.Cranks slow so Doug leaves the key on,buys a new battery and installs it (with the key on).<br /><br />I can see it happening.<br /><br />DHP