Section 6 • Electrical Systems
1.Electrical Systems
Direct Current (DC)
The 12 volt direct current (DC) electrical system (similar to that in your car or truck) derives its power from the battery. An
Ask your dealer for a careful analysis of DC power needs on your boat. It may be necessary to add batteries or auxiliary charging methods to supply adequate power for any additional accessories you wish to add.
A.Batteries
!DANGER
DO NOT USE JUMPER CABLES IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
They can cause an explosion from sparks.
!DANGER
A battery will explode if a flame or spark ignites the free hydrogen given off during charging.
Never use an open flame or strike sparks in the battery area.
The battery installed in your boat has been selected for its ability to furnish starting power based on engine starting requirements, as well as its ability to power the DC accessories attached to the electrical system. Your Engine Operator's Manual indicates the recommended battery for the engine installed in your boat.
!CAUTION
To prevent arcing or damage to the alternator, always disconnect battery cables before doing any work on the engine's electrical system.
To remove the battery cables:
1.Turn off all items drawing power from the battery.
2.Remove the negative cable first, then the positive cable. To replace the cables, first replace the positive cable, then the negative.
Battery Maintenance
•Check the fluid level in the cells approximately every 4 weeks, and weekly in summer and hot zones.
•The fluid level must be between the lower and upper markings.
•Replenish only with distilled water. Do not use metal funnels.
•Coat battery terminal clamps with silicone grease. Keep batteries clean and dry.
Battery life is shortened if it is drained to zero charge before recharging. It is recommended that a battery not be discharged more than 50 percent. If the battery does become run down, recharge it as soon as possible.
Running the engine to recharge the battery may not be effective. The alternator only creates charging power at higher engine speeds, so simply idling or trolling will not generate enough power to recharge the battery.
If you need to charge a battery, only use a battery charger designed to charge automotive/marine batteries. Use charger only when batteries are disconnected from the boat's electrical circuit. Follow the charger instructions.
If your boat will not be used for several weeks or more, remove the batteries from the boat and connect them to a charger.
B.Ignition Protection
All electrical components in the engine compartment must be
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