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Adding battery switch and 2nd battery?

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GarySWI

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Hello all,

I just took delivery of a 2026 SSR20. Great boat!

I want to add a battery switch and I thought I might as well add a second battery.

My question is, if I install a OFF-ONE-TWO-BOTH battery switch do I need to also add any type of battery load electronics or just wire it all to the switch?

I understand that in position ONE or TWO only the battery selected will charge by the motor alternator. What happens when the switch is in BOTH? Will both batteries charge and without any damage to the motor alternator?
 
GarySWI said:
Hello all,

I just took delivery of a 2026 SSR20. Great boat!

I want to add a battery switch and I thought I might as well add a second battery.

My question is, if I install a OFF-ONE-TWO-BOTH battery switch do I need to also add any type of battery load electronics or just wire it all to the switch?

I understand that in position ONE or TWO only the battery selected will charge by the motor alternator. What happens when the switch is in BOTH? Will both batteries charge and without any damage to the motor alternator?
Click to expand...
Yes. When set to 1+2 both will charge via motor and without damage to motor and alternator.
 
Depending on your boating habits, you may also want to consider an Automatic Charge Relay. My last boat had one and I'll definitely adding it to this one. It's especially useful if you like to anchor and hang out playing the stereo etc. for long periods of time.
 
GarySWI said:
Thanks. So all I need is a switch, battery, battery tray and some cabling?
Click to expand...
I believe so, but there are others in the forum that are very experienced in these areas. I am not one of them. I strongly recommend doing a search in the upper right hand corner with the forum search function. We have a traditional Perko switch like you are describing adding to your boat. However, some members have shared that the Blue Seas ACR dual battery thingybobber is a better route to go than a Perko Switch. My understanding from their posts is it automatically tracks and charges batteries without having to set to 1 or 2 or 1+2, thus always guaranteeing that there is a charge in a start up battery so long as there is any power to be had.

Now I know I am absolutely not technically dialed in on this, hence my search function recommendation. Also, hopefully you can stay tuned to other very battery and electrical system knowledgeable members that can dial in on both options, and likely what you would need if you go one way or another.
 
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