merc sailpower 4 &battery charging..any good?

[blue_anchor]

planning to set up my system of battery charging using the charging mag/coil from my o/b..previously had a suzuki 8,with rectifier that wasnt efficient..anyone using this with a sailpower ,and can i connect straight to battery?otherwise ill try solar.

 

[Gordonmc]

Had a similar problem with a Suzi 8 in a Hurley 22. The "charging" coil is actually described by the manufacturer as a lighting coil and was only ever designed to provide enough amps for a running light. I assume the same goes for your Merc.

I could never get a decent charge for the battery and eventually the rectifier burned out, melting half the loom!

If like me you want to turn the motor off asap, then an alternative charging source is the best way to go. I went for a solar panel, only about 2' square on top of the engine well hatch. Fit and forget.

 

[Avalon]

A friend of mine had a merc sailpower 4. Pushed the boat (a Pandora) along nicely but I have to say the charging was useless. You'd have to run for hours at high revs to make any impression on the battery. Would suggest solar or a small wind gen.

Phaon Reid, S/Y Avalon of Arne
www.sailingontheweb.com