Ignition warning light

[River Bank]

Hello

When using my thrusters (2010 R25) I keep getting a high pitched squeal and the "red" lamp flashes on the Yanmar ignition switch assembly.

I've gone through the Yanmar manuals and as yet not found an explanation for the audible sound and flashing red warning light.

Any explanation or suggestions would be most appreciated.

Bob

 

[Andrew Custis]

Hello Bob,

I would lean towards the batteries being weak. While the engine is running, the charging relays are engaged allowing the thrusters to "technically" use all of the batteries. I would suggest having all of your batteries tested.

Thank you,

Andrew Custis

 

[CAPTCRUNCH]

Alternator belt slipping?

 

[doke01]

I would say alternator belt slipping also. Using thrusters takes a lot of juice and you may be putting a large load on the alternator if it is charging the thruster batteries at the same time you are using the thrusters. This makes the alternator harder to turn and if the belt is a little loose it slips and squeals. The light is probably the light indicating you whether or not the alternator is outputting the appropriate voltage/charge. It glows red when the alternator is not putting out enough to keep the batteries charged, which can happen if the belt slips. In normal circumstances, if you have to rev the engine to make the light go off when the belt is properly tightened than the alternator is going bad. The light should turn off once the boat is started and running at idle. Your thruster batteries might be dying also and the alternator may be working harder to keep them charged. Our batteries last 3-4 years so you might be due with a 2010.

 

[River Bank]

All four batteries were "shot" according to the battery people.

So, I purchased four Dual Purpose (starting/Deep Cycle all in one)
They are light cycling battery with starting amps.
The specs are:

105 AH, 175 Res @ 25 amps.
1,000 MCA and 115 Life Cycles.

Part number 27DC-180 (Price $149.95 Cdn)

These batteries are not the sealed AGMs, but are "low-maintenance" (no watering required).
They do emit gas, however, as did the old "wet" batteries and so should not be used inside a boat's living spaces.