Combining Thruster battery with House batteries.

[kjoverbeck]

2015 RT 27

If I ran a jumper cable from the thruster positive to one of the house positive posts, would that effectively be all I need to do to increase house bank size? Not interested at this time having the ability to switch on and off.
Thanks, Kent

 

[Kevin Lamont]

2015 RT 27

If I ran a jumper cable from the thruster positive to one of the house positive posts, would that effectively be all I need to do to combine them? Not interested at this time having the ability to switch on and off.
Thanks, Kent

Hello Kent,

Why are you wanting to combine your thurster battery to the house? Are you looking for more battery power for the thruster bank? If you simply wanted to add an additional battery to the thruster bank you would want to connect in parallel which would add the second thruster battery. If you want a quicker response you can email me at kevinlamont@rangertugs.com. Hope this helps.

Thanks,

 

[kjoverbeck]

I don't want to add to the thruster but want to increase my house bank size.

 

[serpa4]

Eventually I'll connect them also. Waste of 105Ah for a thruster used 1 minute a day. I'll use the extra Ah every single day.
If, and a big IF, the house and thruster battery goes dead, I cannot start the generator. But, I can start the engine and parallel the battery if that day EVER happens.
I have 870 watts of solar and a 70 amp solar charge controller to make sure I have juice to go the distance on anchor for weeks on end, electric cooking stove, grill, micro, etc.

 

[kjoverbeck]

I have a very large lithium battery jump charger that I take on my various toys in case of total battery failure. It's good for peace of mind.

 

[kjoverbeck]

Totally agree Serpa. Also, when you use the thrusters the engine is running and the alternator is kicking in to assist the batteries. Still don't have an answer to my question.

 

[Kim and Ed]

I combined my thruster and house batteries exactly as you described last year with no ill effects and it reduced my amp anxiety significantly. Sleep much better not worrying about overnight battery levels. I do try not to use the thrusters unless absolutely necessary. Practice docking without them as it’s a good skill to have. Very happy with this $20 hack.
Ed/

 

[kjoverbeck]

Thank you Ed!