Perko Battery Switch

[Al Kungel]

I have two batteries on my boat that are hooked up to a Perko Battery Switch. The switch has the 2/ALL/1/OFF positions. It states on the switch that you have to "STOP ENGINES BEFORE SWITCHING OFF".

My question is, when the engine is running can I switch from one running position to another without causing any damage? For example I start the engine using position number 1 or 2 and then I switch to the ALL position so that both batteries are charged and vice versa.

 

[cjames]

Re: Perko Battery Switch

I have what sounds like the same switch, not the ideal setup in my opinion, but its what I have for now. I start the engine on batt "1", switch to "all" once its running, and when I get where im going, I switch to batt "2". I do this with electronics and accessorys running, and have never seen an interruption in power while switching between batteries. This in mind, I assume its not an issue, someone correct me if im wrong. Im curious now, and I may have to go put a meter on the switch and see if theres any "open" space between positions.

 

[I/O WALDO]

Re: Perko Battery Switch

Why not start in "ALL" and go to "2" when stopped/engine off?

 

[cjames]

Re: Perko Battery Switch

My #1 battery is a starting battery, and #2 is a deep cycle, both gp27. The deep cycle wont release amperage as fast, and doesnt have the punch of the starting battery for engine starting. Also, #2 is often slightly discharged due to the fact that it has a few devices that draw directly off it even when the battery switch is turned off. If the starting battery were to be combined to the somewhat discharged house battery, the charge would equalize across the 2, and I'd be left with 2 batterys at some state of discharge. I prefer to have my starting battery in the best possible condition, call me paranoid...

Why not start in "ALL" and go to "2" when stopped/engine off?

 

[sc_shane]

Re: Perko Battery Switch

You could buy an isolator for about $40 and say to heck with the switch alltogether. With this setup, the isolator will automatically point your alternator to the less charged battery without having to hit a switch. I personally have never used this type of setup (never had a need for 2 batteries - don't use that many electronics or a trolling motor), but have read about it alot. You can also use this setup with a switch if you wanted an "all off" option for storing etc.

Just something to think about!

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Perko Battery Switch

Perko switches are make before break switches. Wherever you set them (Except the OFF position), they will make to that battery before disconnecting the previously selected battery from the circuit. Never turn to OFF unless the engine is OFF....