[jrfritz]

I have a 1995 Davanti that has three batteries installed. I want to get a on board battery charger and I don't know if I need a two or three bank charger. What I don't know also is if any of the batteries are hooked up in parallel. Any thoughts?

[ShabahZ280]

All the boats were either equipped with a single or dual batteries. So the 3 bank system is definitely something that was done after the factory. If you want to charge all 3, I suggest a 3 bank charger and wire to charge independently. Don't get a two bank and try to charge the two in parallel. Here's an interesting link about marine batteries. Lots of info there, but it's very helpful in understanding how it might be wired up.

Marine Battery Primer - Nautical Know How

Good luck with it, and keep us updated!

[jrfritz]

Thanks for the responce Chris. These batteries are hooked up through a isolater as well does that make a difference in the hookup? It also has a battery selector switch as 1,2 or all selection.

[ShabahZ280]

What kind of isolator is hooked up, and what batteries is it hooked to? Is it a true isolator, or something like an ACR, and how many banks is it? Is it part of a whole system, say a "Blue Sea" system or otherwise?

The 3-bank battery charger you'll be installing is only for shorepower AC or for charging when you're on the land, so I don't think it'll interfere with anything. The alternator is your charging source while you're running the engine, and the isolator should be able to direct the current both in and out of the batteries in the system, provided they're all hooked up and wired properly.