Corrosion of Temp Sensor: Solar Controller

[SEEKER]

I've had to replace my solar controller unit last year due to corrosion around the temperature sensor located on the unit, this unit was about 3 months old and located in the battery compartment of a Ranger 25. Ranger was very good to me and sent me a new one. I'm wondering if anyone else has had this problem and what you may have done to solve the problem? I'm debating relocating the unit which could be a pain..need to run longer wires and temperature sensor will not be relevant to battery space. I'm also thinking of using the option of a remote sensor and locating it in a drier area although same problem exists with not recording actual temp. in battery compartment. Third option; go with different unit?

 

[walldog]

No problems with my sensor so far. Are they still making those beautiful knives in Eagle River? I love my filet knife from there.

 

[GulfSailor]

Third option; go with different unit?

Before doing that you might try to establish what caused the corrosion and see if the unit can be protected from it.
Check with the manufacturer to see if the sensor is ok being coated with a waterproof sealer for instance.

 

[trailertrawlerkismet]

The solar controller temp sensor you are referring to, is it the Sunsaver Due made by Morningstar? This is the unit we have on our R27 and it is mounted in the battery garage. I see in reviewing the manuals that they offer a "Remote Temperature Sensor (RTS). The literature I have states that the RTS sends battery temperature data to controllers. It this is the case I wonder if you do mount the controller elsewhere if this remote unit could be your answer. Probably need to call the company @ 215-321-4457 to clarify. In any case I think to follow GulfSailor's advice on what caused the corrosion would be in order.

Jim F

 

[knotflying]

Interesting, my controller unit is located in the Genset compartment, not in the battery compartment. I did have some corrosion on the terminals, but I cleaned them up and applied some corrosion stop and hopefully things will be okay. I also figured being in the next storage unit over, the temperature difference can't be that significant to make a difference.

 

[SEEKER]

Walldog: Eagle River Knife Company is still putting out fabulous knives..I have a fillet knife that I'm reluctant to use b/c it's such a nice looking knife. I think you can only order them online or if you happen to catch them at an event.

As far as the make, yes it is a morning star unit and I'm hoping that the corrosion is not b/c of a bad ground. The location of the unit in the battery compartment makes logical sense but is seem to be vulnerable to moisture and condensation b/c the compartment shares airspace with bilge and heat from the engine. I like the idea of coating it? I will make a call to the company. I assume a silicone based product might work or some kind of spray on sealant...wonder if battery terminal sealant would work? If this unit corrodes out on me again than I think plugging in a remote sensor and relocating that would be my first option.

 

[knotflying]

Morningstar has been very responsive to me with a few issues I had. As I said in the previous post for the corrosion I use Corrosion Block. You can buy it at NAPA. Very expensive, about $23.00 for a spray can, but the stuff works and penetrates to stay on. It also comes with one of those small tubes so you can spray it in tight spots. A little dab goes a long way. I put it on everything that has an electrical connection.

 

[Claud'in]

Hello!
After three months, the same problem with sun saver than you on my R25SC
The problem: If water is going in the under deck,the sun saver don't work, cause the sensor is falling down.
It is the place of this sun saver who make the problem..
The solution: for this time, thank to Ranger Tugs who send a new sun saver very quickly ( Super Andrew !!)
For the next summer (in corsica there is a big sun and a beautiful sea but waves with wind and a lot of salt some days!!) and it is impossible to get a right protection.
I want to put a little box just over the sun saver but it is not good for the temperature !
If somebody has a solution?
Good day from Corsica/France

PS..sorry for my bad english!

 

[knotflying]

I would say find a nice dry place accessible in the cabin and use the remote temperature sensor in the battery compartment. Your English is better than some who live here!

 

[Claud'in]

Thank you for the english!
I think that you idea is the better.inside never problem!
But are certain that this system will work right..because the cable will be longer?
If you test it, i want to know.
Have a good day..here it is a cool night of spring!
Claude of Claud'in

 

[RProffer]

Corrosion in the battery compartment could also be caused by vapors off the battery when it is charging. That is why battery compartments should be vented.