Systems
4-1
ELECTRICAL
The standard electrical system on board uses a low voltage system called
direct current (DC for short). It is referred to as DC because current
fl ows one-way in the circuit.
Storage batteries (sometimes
called wet-lead cell batteries)
furnish 12 volt DC electricity
to boat components. Storage
batteries use 2 dissimilar metals
immersed in a liquid to carry
current (acid). The engines require
large reserve amounts of battery
power for starting purposes. Check the maintenance chapter for battery
information.
The automobile battery is charged up by the engine alternator. The
same holds true for the marine battery. The dash volt meter displays the
battery voltage. If the volt meter shows below 12 volts there could be
a charging system malfunction. This condition needs to be investigated
before the batteries become completely drained.
Note: Never disconnect the battery terminal with the engine running.
Never charge a battery in the boat or directly on cement. Remove the
battery from the boat fi rst. On non-maintenance free batteries check
the water level periodically. Add distilled water to the proper level.
Note that tap water usually contains minerals which can be corrosive
to the battery plates.
Direct Current (12 volt DC)
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