A25 Electric Questions

[Sunsetrider]

OK, I'm going to post a few pics - the first one is the 1971 A25 wiring diagram, followed by my alternator, starter, then the existing wiring (front), then the back of the panel. I am going to have to upgrade things: (a) install my ACR and on-off switch; (b) install my Promarine 12A charger; (c) rewire battery wires and install proper circuit protection; (d) rewire the circuits.

I'll ask a few questions in the next post.

[Sunsetrider]

Although everything (except the anchor light) seems to function, I think it's clear why the system cries out for improvement. I've been reading the books and the interwebs on the subject and deficiencies include a lack of circuit protection in the battery room, unidentifiable circuits, electric and electronic add-ons that are not integrated into the system, and so on. Both batteries are relatively new.

Some questions I have:
Diagram:
- what is the unit inserted between the Pos battery terminals? - not evident in the actual pic of the batteries.
- I want to increase the size of the alt-starter cabling, but which wire (looking at the starter pic) is the right one?
- I suspect the alt pulley is out of alignment

Front wiring pic:
- Cannot figure out what all those small wires to the left and right of the Pos bus are. The Pos bus is the black disc and the black wire attached to it comes from the switch to feed the panel above.

Panel back:
- Best way to identify what is what? Or just take it all out ans start over, incorporating the VHF and depth into a new breaker/switch panel?
- The horn, fuel pump and bilge pump have toggle switches on the console already.

Basically, any input to give me hints, shortcuts etc. greatly appreciated!

[DougSea]

After just a quick look I'd have to say that, if time and budget allow, a rip it out path might well be best. Of particular concern for me is the mixing in of black cable for 12v+. That's just a huge no no.

Do you own a copy of the "Boatowner’s Mechanical and Electrical Manual"? If not, I'd recommend it. Also Nigel Calder's electrical systems books.

Also, Blue Seas Systems has LOTS of information on their website about power distribution and circuit protection. I like their products, very well made.

Since you don't show the "unit" between the positive posts I'd have to assume it's some kind of charge splitter that directs power to the starter battery and then the house. But that's just a guess.

More later, but that's a start!

[Sunsetrider]

Thanks Doug. FYI here is what I've done to upgrade my brain so far:

- have and read Boatowner's Illustrated Electrical Handbook (C Wing), Marine Electrical Electronics Bible (Payne), The 12 Volt bible (Can't find it though, it's here somewhere), and Marine Diesel Engines (Calder).
- Canadian Power & Sail Squadron short course (4 3-hour sessions) on marine electrics - the basics.
- Hours of web crawling on the subject, including Blue Sea and a guy called Maine Sail.

Should I get Calder on electrics as well? What I find really helpful is the Dick Jane Spot stuff with diagrams that sort of copy real life rather than concepts.

Maybe that unit between the posts is supposed to rep a batt switch?

I wish it would warm up!