Can a battery be shared with an alternator?

In order to share an alternator with more than one battery we need 1) a parallel battery switch, e.g. Off-1-2-both, 2) a battery combiner or 3) a battery isolator. Dedicated Battery Banks. Nowadays, separate battery banks, for different purposes, is the norm.

Can a house bank be charged by an alternator?

Another common scenario is a house bank that is charged by the alternator only when using the Off-1-2-Both switch in the Both/All position.

How long does it take to charge a battery from an alternator?

As long as the battery voltage rises when the engine is running, you know that your alternator is working. The ratio between the battery bank and the alternator will dictate how long it will take for the charging voltage to reach 14.4 volts.

Can a boat charge batteries from an alternator?

Unfortunately, on many boats, charging all the batteries from the alternator is a manual system and many boaters simply do not know or forget what position the battery switch should be set to, when and to charge which battery. An easy way to figure this out is through a process of cause and effect using the voltmeter gauge you have onboard.

Can a battery be charged from an alternator?

If batteries charge properly from the alternator (with 120 VAC charger off) and charge properly from shore power/generator (with the engine off), the easy answer is to turn off the breaker that supplies the charger or inverter/charger while you are driving.

Why does the dash light illuminate when the alternator is off?

This can cause the charge light to illuminate. If batteries charge properly from the alternator (with 120 VAC charger off) and charge properly from shore power/generator (with the engine off), the easy answer is to turn off the breaker that supplies the charger or inverter/charger while you are driving.

What kind of wiring does a Monaco Coach have?

Got to admit that the wiring on the Monaco coach’s run me in circles at times. That should give all the members a good baseline of information to start solving your issue. Rich.