Do I need a new battery isolator?

[basil421]

I am concerned about the make before break properties of my battery isolator.
I've recently noticed that when switching from "2" to "Both" there is a momentary disconnect. This also happens going the other way. "Both" to "2".
However, it does seem to be OK switching between "1" and "Both" (or "Both" and "1") so I'm wondring if there is a fault with my Isolator.

Does anyone know if this Isolator (picture below) is designned to be make before break? If it is would it be realistic to try to repair it or should I splash out and replace.

I've not wrecked my alternator yet but I feel it's just a matter of time before someone switches between "2" and "Both" while charging.

 

[VicS]

I am concerned about the make before break properties of my battery isolator.
I've recently noticed that when switching from "2" to "Both" there is a momentary disconnect. This also happens going the other way. "Both" to "2".
However, it does seem to be OK switching between "1" and "Both" (or "Both" and "1") so I'm wondring if there is a fault with my Isolator.

Does anyone know if this Isolator (picture below) is designned to be make before break? If it is would it be realistic to try to repair it or should I splash out and replace.

I've not wrecked my alternator yet but I feel it's just a matter of time before someone switches between "2" and "Both" while charging.

I'd say it was faulty. Surprising because its not a cheap one although to be fair I don't see any mention of "make before break" in the specification
http://www.bepmarine.com/home-mainmenu-8/product-322/701s-pm-selector-battery-switch-panel-mount

If It were mine I'd take it apart and have a look at it if possible

 

[basil421]

Thanks Vic,
I've relayed my question to BEP Marine. Depending on their reply I'll take your advice and try opening it up.

 

[halcyon]

I'd say it was faulty. Surprising because its not a cheap one although to be fair I don't see any mention of "make before break" in the specification
http://www.bepmarine.com/home-mainmenu-8/product-322/701s-pm-selector-battery-switch-panel-mount

Is that link the same model Vic ?

The graphic in the photo indicates make before break, but the one in the link is change-over, different graphic.

Try using a multimeter on resistance with battery disconnected, change-over slowly, meter should stay on zero, if it rises then falls you probably have a faulty switch, burnt contact ?

Brian

 

[VicS]

Is that link the same model Vic ?

The graphic in the photo indicates make before break, but the one in the link is change-over, different graphic.

Try using a multimeter on resistance with battery disconnected, change-over slowly, meter should stay on zero, if it rises then falls you probably have a faulty switch, burnt contact ?

Brian

No you are right its not the same one but I cannot see any mention of "make before break" on any of the specs. Its a 721
The graphics are a bit too subtle for me. I read words not pictures. I'd expect a spec to say what it it does but equally I d expect a battery change over switch to be make before break.
I'm sure you are right and that its faulty in some way.

 

[LadyInBed]

I also reckon it's faulty.
If switching between "1" and "Both" is make before break, then going to "2" should be as well.

Aren't all 1-Both-2 switches make before break?
If you want break before make then you go via OFF !

 

[basil421]

Just for completeness, I had a reply from BEP Marine as follows:

"That is our # 721. It has always been a make before break. I don’t really think you will have any chance of fixing it"

So it looks like I'll be fitting a replacement.

Thanks to all those who responded.
B