Search the Community

I am having an electrical issue w/ low batteries and have recently replaced the battery charger as this tested defective. I suspect the batteries have been damaged due to the lack of charging, however, want ensure there's nothing more serious. I am currently experiencing the following: 1. Low voltage on both Port (12.4V) and Stb (12.5V) batteries when disconnected from shore power, 13.2V on generator battery - even after charging for a week. 2. Port & stb batteries are sufficient to start engines. 3. Electric Fault notifications on EVC on both engines immediately after starting engines. Not sufficient power to run any electronics consistently. GPS/Nav will flicker on, then re-start, etc. Some gauges not working at all (fuel guage, etc). I was going to simply replace all 3 batteries - believing all these errors are due to insufficient battery conditions. However, shouldn't the alternators be powering all the electronics sufficiently when running motors (at least at full power)? Or do they still require sound batteries? Is there a way to test the alternators (I have Volvo Penta D3-160 Diesels). I have run my Generator while underway - which keeps the electronics going for about 45 minutes, but then the Electric Fault notifications return and all electronics fail again. Appreciate any input.

I have a dinghy attached to the swim platform of a 2008 290 by a Weaver arch davit system, a weaver lever on the dinghy and a 60 lb motor. Total weight is less than 200 lbs. To make it easier to lift the dinghy out of the water to vertical, I want to add a U bolt to the underside of the arch then run a detachable 4:1 pulley system. The reason for utilizing the arch is that it gives a better angle to raise the dinghy and decrease resistance. Will the arch support the pull? Any suggestions as to reinforcing the U bolt.? Other suggestions welcomed.