Jason, I could easily sit through the three hour in depth version. Those of us that are getting ready to make the leap to the cruising life are looking for as much information on power sourcing on sailboats as possible. Thanks for relaying your experience and knowledge, good job.
I agree! My wife & I would like to move to solar, albeit, we're not 'full timers', but to find something better than using our 4 current lead/acid golf cart batteries, so a Lithium & solar type system. We have a residential fridge that pulls the batteries down to nearly 50% (if full at night, over 8 hours) so we certainly need something for those 'boon docking' times! There are a host of brands/sizes/methods, so like the others, finding the right solutions we all need 'education', so yes, keep those thoughts coming Jason, and updates of them to us in your videos! Thanks!
My favorite video of yours EVER was the boon-docking one in the RV where you went through a regular day and showed how much power was used for each activity. Would LOVE to see something similar for the boat!
I found this POWER video to be very informative and interesting....I really enjoy these Wynn technical classrooms! In my opinion, a water turbine should be any "sailing" sailboats main mode of passage battery charging. During the doldrums, solar-cells for daylight and a wind turbine for the night....and all three going for those high amp load times (water-making, washing, baking, AC, etc.). Thanks again you two....
I love your info videos. You guys talk in language anyone can understand yet still give enough technical data to be helpful. Love your videos...keep em coming and hopefully someday I'll be out there with you and our paths will cross.
*What a great mid-week surprise ; ) the Alternator method seems impressive and efficient & seriously an amp clamp is essential for your LIVING situation.*
I would hang onto the generator to keep the hours off the engines. Run the generator only when you use the high drain appliances like water making, laundry, air conditioning, and ice cream making. Many times those tasks can be run simultaneously in the early evening to cool down and dry the cabin for the evening, etc. Always a good idea to up the alternators. There are towable generators. I don't know how good they are but it may solve your mounting issues. You guys are the best! If I find a diesel ice cream maker I'll let you know...
Wynns, I didn't cycle through all the comments to see if someone answered your question at 4:01 already regarding your alternators not putting out the full 80A. The non-issue is that the internal regulators on your alternators are very conservative in out put so as not to overcharge your batteries. The answer to get the full bang for your alternator buck is to add an external "intelligent" regulator. And yes, the will combine the current output of both alternators . Check out Pacific Yacht Systems ' UA-cam video Intro - Improve your Alternator Charging with an External Regulator. And Thank You for your quality videos!
Good video. Not boring. Yet high enough level to talk about the systems without getting deep in the design. I am an electrical engineer and don’t mind the details but the other in my family could keep up with what was being said. Good job! And thanks for sharing.
I really enjoy the mix of subjects that you cover. I view many of the other sailing UA-cam videos, you are the most genuine and natural presenters and have really won me over. I realize that producing quality videos like this is a tremendous amount of work but so many of us get so much enjoyment from watching your adventures. Keep up the great work.
Great episode! The numbers you showed for current draw make sense with a 80A alternator. I had similar questions about current draw when researching battery charging for my overland build. So I will share a couple things that I figured out. 1. Alternator rating relates to the potential of the alternator and doesn't directly translate to amperage available. There's idle output (1,500 RPM), rated output (6,000 RPM) and max output which from what I have read means the output it can reach for short periods of time before it does a smoke check. For example, My truck has a 140A alternator that will allow up to a 60A draw at 1500 RPM (Alternator Shaft RPM not Engine) at engine idle and up to 140A draw at 6000 RPM (alternator RPM) but the actual draw is determined by the electrical systems and batteries not the alternator. Here is a great article that explains this in detail. www.lifewire.com/understanding-alternator-output-ratings-534785 2. Battery charge current is contralled by the batteries themselves. If the voltage is correct, the typical charge current is between 18-20% of the battery capacity in current for deep-cycle (wet) batteries and increases for AGM and high-cycle batteries to between 25-35%. For example, a 100Ah wet deep-cycle battery can be expected to absorb up to 20A while a AGM or high-cycle battery will typically charge under 30A for the majority of charge." I'm not sure what percentage lithium batteries draw but I would imagine that it is in the 35% or higher range. So your battery pack is drawing the max potential of your 80A alternator at those RPMs so even though with a 230A alternator you won't see 230A being drawn but it will be significantly higher that what you are seeing at those same RPM's now.
Really liked this one. I hate to say but when you two first started this sailing channel I didn’t think you two would make it. Wrong! Your financials of the Bahamas, camera gear reviews, and this power video are some of my favs. Thank you so much
Yes please, tell us more regarding your set up. I love these vid's. Not to many people inform us newbies on the tech that is required to run a boat. Thanks...
I couldn't see in the pics you showed with the alternators, but commonly the choke point for current from an alternator is the power wire coming out of it. It's quite common for engine manufacturers to cheap out and put thin gauge wire for power from the alternator. Thin gauge wire + distance to the battery = higher resistance and lower amperage. Upgrading the wiring up to a lower numerical gauge wire is a fairly quick way to unleash those lost amps. It's commonly called "the Big 3" in the car audio world. And it would absolutely be necessary if you were to upgrade to larger alternators.
Very well done. You have looked at all options. My first thought was that 200 amp alternator. Yeah, ideally get rid of the generator, add the better alternators, upgrade solar panels, and add more battery. All expensive options. you have worked out something that works for you.
These are some of my favorite videos of yours. Don't get me wrong I could watch snorkeling videos all day but I find the nuts and bolts of sailing fascinating.
We had the same issue with low alternator output in our 10 yr old monohull. Look at external alternator regulators. Our output went from 18A on a 60A alternator to 60A battery input. One drawback is heat. When the alternator puts out so much power it gets hot. Ours is a Sterling PDAR - when the alternator gets too hot, it pulls down on output to protect the alternator. My family has been sailing (weekends/holidays) in Scandinavia for the last 10+ years. I haven’t watched too much UA-cam sailing channels, but I like how you also show the ‘flip side’ of boating.
Your efficency issue with your alternators is do to your circuit which fills the starter battery...an external regulator will solve that and you will see much more of your 80 amps....your didnt mention menthanol fuel cells
We have the same meter on our Leopard. First time boat owners though so we weren't keen to use it properly and no one had shown us how to use it. You just did that for us, thank you so much. Very educational on many levels. Our Northern Lights generator recently seized so we have been considering various options. We absolutely LOVE the alternator upgrade idea and will start the homework on that project to see what's involved for our particular Yanmars. Eager to see what gear you have to run the A/C without the generator. Cheers mates!
Thanks for another great video--FULL of good info. My husband has been chomping at the bit waiting for it too, so thanks! :) God bless! The Evans family
Love when you explain the fine details of full time boat life. Jason when you a chance can you do a video on your water maker the in and outs of using it and how it works. I learn a lot watching your videos. Happy sailing ⛵️
Hi Guys. The BIG alternators are what I was waiting for you to mention. Wyn Wyn Wyn [ pardon the pun ]. They take up no extra space, cost nothing to run and are fool proof. Great Vid. Thanks. David Downunder.
I am behind in viewing, but week after week you guys produce such great entertainment and education. You make everything more realistic of doing this in the future when I'm free to pursue it. (long story short, I'm a caregiver for my mother)
good to see you have lithium starter batteries we were wondering whether it is worth to ditch the lead acid starter batteries from the start and install lithium from the start? our leopard 45 is only arriving in august and we are now in preparation phase. i am not sure how you feel on inter channel collaboration, but may i "card link" your charging battery episode with our battery episode coming up next week?
So the alternators. You engine starts off of the battery. Once it’s running and the alt tops off the battery the engine runs off of the alternator. Basically it uses the sixty-ish amps to run the engine and the left over 27-28 that you see is meant to either charge the battery or run additional electrical components. So it is making the 80ish amps but the motor itself uses the majority of what it produces. This is the same with all engines. We deal with this on motorcycles all the time. Love y’all love the show can’t wait to go sailing myself.
I like you guys. Always watch when you post a new video. I just want to say this. Don't ditch the generator. You have adapted to it this far and as they say "better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it. Well do what you have to and safe travels Good luck .
Absolutely helpful as my bride and I narrow down boat (catamaran) choice and how to configure it. Also, with so many accolades, we will be engaging Kent to help us when the time comes. Thanks, guys, you are the best !! 😊💕✨🥂🥃✨⛵️⚓️
Hey Kids, great power-tour! You did answer many questions about how you take care of your charging systems. Your thoughts on the wind generation systems were good reasons NOT to have one. Hope you are enjoying your time their!
yay! mid-week video! woot :) thanks! I love learning about solar stuff. I feel like there are so many options that I eventually just throw my hands up bcz I can't decide what to get. I feel much more informed when y'all explain things. Have you guys considered the bicycle-powered washer? lol exercise and "warsh yer drawers." The people who DIY them are very committed to off-grid living.
Absolutely loved this one as it gave me a better understanding of what I will need. Love your Videos and look forward to seeing them every week. I could watch a lot more on the systems you are using as I think your boat has one of the best setups I have seen on the Sailing youtube channels
Nikki & Jason - Great video. I live in Irving, not far from where guys lived before you started your adventures. I have a 6 kilowatt solar array in my backyard. Loved how you setup your solar, and agree with your wishes for a larger alternator for each of your engines. Keep your Thursday videos going, I enjoy the how-to breaks on Thursdays. God bless, be safe & have fun.
Thank you for the information, I have watched nearly all your videos. Questions I have are, 1 the Charge controller is it intended to match with the power supply or the batteries. 2 how are your Lithium batteries holding. I understand you have two 12volt 300 Ah. 3 Are the batteries connected in series or Parallel. Sorry if you have answered these questions many times before, perhaps you could just direct me to those answers.
Loved the video! We get excited when we get 12 amps out of our tiny solar system. Hydro is nice, but we have found that it only produces real power when sailing at speeds above 6 knots (our electric motor acts as a hydrogenator when sailing). I think those solar panels on the cockpit top are superb.
Very informative for self proclaimed amateurs. I wonder if your engine alternator spill-off controller is not quite working as you expect it. Maybe it simply cuts off but I am sure you've already covered that possibility. On a previous boat, we had two alternators ran by the engine, one 60A was dedicated to the engine and the other, a 120A unit was dedicated to the house bank. It worked ok until we had broken belts in the middle of a passage only to find out that our spare belts were the wrong size... oops! Belt issues aside, the dual alternator is a fairly easy and low cost mod and provides hefty power while motoring. Good to know about your lesson learned on the generator and thanks for adding the costs as well, these will come in handy while we shop for a boat. I hope you guys still like your Leopard, it's one of the models we've been looking at too. Maybe a 47 instead. Wishing you easy, breezy passages and lots of fun experiences. Cheers from Utah!
We have (2) 135W solar panels, an AirBreeze wind generator and 3/5KV Genset + Balmar 100 alternator. We have a DC Spectra Catalina watermaker. The AirBreeze is great, very quiet and puts out another 6-10 amps in 15-20 knots of wind. If it wasn’t for hot water, I might no longer have the genset. We have AC/Heat but only use at dockside or with genset. 42’ Jeanneau SO42DS
Good explanation of your issues. To start out, it should be admitted that you use a LOT of electricity. That said, it is very smart that you have multiple sources to generate electricity. Bravo for upgrading your batteries to Lithium and bravo for your early video explaining your reasoning for that upgrade. Maybe get rid of the genset and upgrade the engine alternators. At the very least, upgrade your alternators so you would rarely have to use your genset.
I really like these info type video's. The lithium AC discussion will be relevant to a lot of people. You will get a lot of attention when you discuss your battery usage etc... Thank for the video. GOD bless. JC
Love your videos. You asked about other alternatives for charging. I’ve been looking at micro turbine generators. Much smaller and lighter than diesel generator. More efficient and much more reliable and easy to maintain since there’s only one moving part and best of all, fuel agnostic. Can run one diesel, gas, propane or even used cooking oil. Another emerging technology is of course fuel cell generators. Small, light weight, really efficient and virtually silent. No moving parts, so ultra reliable too. Only down side at the moment is sourcing methane or other fuel packs in far off places. Could have them shipped ahead to a marina but needs planning. Might be worth a look. Good luck.
Well done! It is so hard to talk people into getting a battery monitor... Any more, I use that as a determining factor to decide if I should help them to design and install a solar system for their RV (same would be for a sailboat). 2012 Tiffin Breeze with 1200 watts of solar Add on note- heavier wire (and short runs) would help to increase the charging output from your boat alternators by a few amps. This would also be required if you should upgrade your alternators to significantly increase the amps to the batteries. Its just ohms law and math...
Great video guys yeah I think the large alternator is going to be our future as you probably know the Class B motorhomes are doing away with generators in lieu of large alternators if they could incorporate General Motors variable displacement technology it would be even better where you only use a few cylinders of say a 6 or an 8-cylinder engine
Your alternators on your engines can be modified to give you a higher amps, with the flip of a switch. It is a small conversion on the stators. The wiring need to be converted from star to delta and a switch to bypass your voltage regulator. If your alternators are Bosch, it will be a bonus, very easy to convert.
Just wanting to say HI! Love your vids guys! Really enjoy em! Heck, it's just nice seeing you back on the boat and chillin... The info's great though too!
A couple of things you may want to consider before buying high output alternators : 1) a high output alternator will get much closer to putting out it's rated current then a standard alternator but it never put out rated current. My 80amp high output alternator puts out a little over 60 max. 2) You will want to install a controller with your new alternator. This will insure that you are not over charging the batteries. However, to protect your batteries it is constantly dropping the current the closer your batteries get to fully charged. Unless your batteries run down you will not see your alternators max output 3) batteries have a maximum amount of charging current they can take no matter what. Anything above that can cause problems. This maybe information you already know but I like your videos and I have a boat and think about the same issues . I also am an Electrical engineer and this is the one topic I though I could contribute.
Jason, I was at a presentation the other night that was being put on by one of our local marine electronics services providers and he had a couple of interesting ideas that were not in your list but are worth considering, 1. He uses and is installing more methanol fuel cell chargers on boats, the may be expensive but he indicated no moving parts, no noise and very fuel efficient. 2. he indicated that they are now stacking multiple battery chargers, the idea being that when the generator is being used just for battery charging it is running at a very low load, so the generator can accommodate additional chargers that charge the batteries much faster, so you are not having to run the generator as long. He was from Pacific yacht systems in Vancouver. Love your videos
Thank you for a great episode - very interesting. I Think you have a problem.... You see, your gennie should give you somewhere at least 400A when running. Now your alternators on the Engines are 80A but only give you near 25A. Well, some goes to the Engine but that is really a very small amount. What your problem is....... losses. I bet you have way too thin Cables in combination with long runs to your battery bank. This is a reason why trucks and busses have a 24V system instead of 12V to get the lamps to light in the rear of the semi trailer.) If you measure the diameter of the Cables (excluding insulation) and measure the runs (approx) and google any "voltage drop calculator" you can see what losses there is to expect or what kind of Cables you would need not to have these losses. Now, take it from a tight Swede, it will be much better economy for you to buy better Cables than to buy very expensive alternators. Same goes with your solar. I bet you can gain some watts/Amperage from your solar using better Cables. Cheers from Sweden
I agree about the cables. The problem is that the regulator witch regulates the output of the alternator is sampling the voltage at the battery of the engine. Because there is a voltage drop in the cable and often you even go through a secondary battery controller (with voltage drop) there is not much voltage left to charge your battery. With solar panels it is in my opinion less critical because the panels have a higher voltage to overcome this loses. very interesting video!
Conventional alterators will overheat snd burn or, or cut their output, because they are not rated for continuous output. Regulators also have conventions. Yes, uou can get continous heavy output, but it won't be cheap and it won't be with stock automotive components.
The reason the batteries are accepting 25A from the engine alternator is because that is all the current the batteries can accept due to output voltage of the alternator. You battery charger charges the battery at a higher rate because it runs at a higher voltage than the engine alternator. This also tends to cook your batteries. A standard 12 volt alternator puts is regulated to output about 14.1 volts. What is voltage of your lithium battery bank? The 25A your alternator put out is you base load.
By the way, still impressed with your analytical skills and knowledge. We all go astray with the analysis once in awhile except there is no excuse for me when I do it.
I loved this, super informative. If anything I would like to see more details in how the boat works and repairs.....loving your channel though, inspiring seeing newbies take it all on.
Check out the blog! There's a tab for "mods & maintenance" and a search bar at the bottom of each page to help you find what you're looking for. www.gonewiththewynns.com/sailing Curious Minion
Good information. If you go with larger alternators you'll be trading a small amount of engine performance for more electrical power. A good role of thumb is 750 watts is 1 horse power. So right now your alternators are using about 1 horse power from the engine, with the larger alternators that could mean 4-5 horse power. Which means less speed from the engine or burning more fuel maybe both. Of course me being a power junkie would also get 2 or more extra batteries for all that extra power to go to.
William Bays ...true. Enter the electromagnetic clutch to disengage the (usually) second oversized alternator. Very typical instal for this app and have been around for decades.
capt'n re your idea about installing high capacity alternators -- I would keep the small alternators to only charge starting batteries and add large case alternators for house battery charging. I would be careful about going too large on alternators, you don't want to compromise your engines. about 140 amps each would do just fine. those 240 amp units are real beasts not at all suited for your 40 hp diesels. everything in moderation equals reliability. also, as you probably have learned not all electrical techs are up on lithium systems which equals funky if not dangerous systems. fair winds
Correct square area on each cable for each application is indeed essential for getting the system to run smoothly. Yes it takes time to rerun the ones that needs to be changed, but all of that can be done by yourself, and is much less expensive than replacing alternators and so on. 🔧 If I was to advise you: check and replace cables first. And it’s a good way to get to know every inch of your yacht. How much is your washing machine drawing? And the AC? An ampere clamp is essential for you and costs about $60.
Was selling the generator to fund the upgraded alternators not an option? I'd be interested in a more detailed inverter / how you have the solar setup done video.
Which videos can I go to that can help me understand my set up. I put this 400 watt solar panel with 4 6 volt batteries in as I was told. So I understand it? No! I will bit I am not good at that sort of thing. I would rather sit around and try to play my guitar. Lol.... 64 retired liver transplant guy. But with all the sun in this area ( lake Havasu area) o had to cause its the smart way to go. As far as free energy. Well I am into it close to 2 grand at least! So it’s not free, but no generator noise, no oil changes, no going to town for fuel. And it just gives me a good feeling about using the sun. I love it. Even though this is the first day, thanks guys, been watching you for quite awhile. Even started my own YT channel . I love making videos. Oh ya that reminds me. I can plug stuff in and charge when ever I want now. No more . Putting shoes on, get flash light so I don’t bump into a snake. Turn on radio with timer and not worry about having to stay awake to turn off generator. I AM GOING TO LOVE THIS! Bye
Awesome video indeed. Thank you! Regarding watt & sea and your sugar scoops you might want to check out their new watt & sea POD. Please continue with your videos. Ralf
I know you have followed Delos; do you recall when they had that problem on passage - maybe inverter? - and were deadly low in battery and had to turn off many instruments and everything possible. I think Brady had this cobbled together thing that spun in the water and was tied to a rope they then connected to something else ? Alternator?? They tossed it in the water behind them and as they sailed, it spun & gave them enough juice to turn back on instruments. It wasn't a lot, but on passage, especially at night, some amps for little effort or $ would be useful. The thing they dumped in the water in their wake wasn't important - it was the twisting spinning rope that turned something that gave them the charge.
The Genset is also provided to power the whole boat for electricity. I know you don't use it that way but it is a full source of offshore power; AC's, Kitchen, Heads, Washer/Dryewr, H2O maker, etc., etc., etc.
Enjoyed the video! Generators can be hateful things, but one thing they do provide, is back up to the inverter, and your 110V system. I'm sure you've thought about that as well when it comes to replacing it with high amp alternators.
You should contact mechman for a performance alternator. The have models that are 320amps! I’m sure they can get you hooked up if you ask. They do a lot of custom applications in the sound system world. Good luck guys! I always enjoy your videos.
I'm sure if you read comments on your older videos I'm making my way through your videos from beginning to current. That being said you may have already updated your alternators. If you have not it look at the car audio forums. Car audio guys have been putting high output alternators on vehicles for years to charge their lithium batteries. It is much more economical than you think it is and there is very little retrofitting that has to be done you can get this design to match perfectly with the bracket system you have now.
Jason, I could easily sit through the three hour in depth version. Those of us that are getting ready to make the leap to the cruising life are looking for as much information on power sourcing on sailboats as possible. Thanks for relaying your experience and knowledge, good job.
Indeed, I would love to see more in-depth technical videos. Keep them coming!
I agree! My wife & I would like to move to solar, albeit, we're not 'full timers', but to find something better than using our 4 current lead/acid golf cart batteries, so a Lithium & solar type system. We have a residential fridge that pulls the batteries down to nearly 50% (if full at night, over 8 hours) so we certainly need something for those 'boon docking' times! There are a host of brands/sizes/methods, so like the others, finding the right solutions we all need 'education', so yes, keep those thoughts coming Jason, and updates of them to us in your videos! Thanks!
My favorite video of yours EVER was the boon-docking one in the RV where you went through a regular day and showed how much power was used for each activity. Would LOVE to see something similar for the boat!
I found this POWER video to be very informative and interesting....I really enjoy these Wynn technical classrooms! In my opinion, a water turbine should be any "sailing" sailboats main mode of passage battery charging. During the doldrums, solar-cells for daylight and a wind turbine for the night....and all three going for those high amp load times (water-making, washing, baking, AC, etc.). Thanks again you two....
I love your info videos. You guys talk in language anyone can understand yet still give enough technical data to be helpful. Love your videos...keep em coming and hopefully someday I'll be out there with you and our paths will cross.
Y’all were so young 3yrs ago! Blows my mind seeing older videos
*What a great mid-week surprise ; ) the Alternator method seems impressive and efficient & seriously an amp clamp is essential for your LIVING situation.*
Probably the most informative video that is available explaining a sailboat's electrical system. As a bonus it's in layman's terms!
I would hang onto the generator to keep the hours off the engines. Run the generator only when you use the high drain appliances like water making, laundry, air conditioning, and ice cream making. Many times those tasks can be run simultaneously in the early evening to cool down and dry the cabin for the evening, etc. Always a good idea to up the alternators. There are towable generators. I don't know how good they are but it may solve your mounting issues. You guys are the best! If I find a diesel ice cream maker I'll let you know...
Wynns, I didn't cycle through all the comments to see if someone answered your question at 4:01 already regarding your alternators not putting out the full 80A. The non-issue is that the internal regulators on your alternators are very conservative in out put so as not to overcharge your batteries. The answer to get the full bang for your alternator buck is to add an external "intelligent" regulator. And yes, the will combine the current output of both alternators . Check out Pacific Yacht Systems
' UA-cam video Intro - Improve your Alternator Charging with an External Regulator.
And Thank You for your quality videos!
Good video. Not boring. Yet high enough level to talk about the systems without getting deep in the design. I am an electrical engineer and don’t mind the details but the other in my family could keep up with what was being said. Good job! And thanks for sharing.
I really enjoy the mix of subjects that you cover. I view many of the other sailing UA-cam videos, you are the most genuine and natural presenters and have really won me over. I realize that producing quality videos like this is a tremendous amount of work but so many of us get so much enjoyment from watching your adventures. Keep up the great work.
What a treat! A midweek video 🤗.
Thanks for answering my question regarding wind power.
Thank you. Not boring at all. Shared it with my husband who actually will understand what you are talking about.
I watch a lot of travel vlogs...you guys are the best!
Great episode! The numbers you showed for current draw make sense with a 80A alternator. I had similar questions about current draw when researching battery charging for my overland build. So I will share a couple things that I figured out.
1. Alternator rating relates to the potential of the alternator and doesn't directly translate to amperage available. There's idle output (1,500 RPM), rated output (6,000 RPM) and max output which from what I have read means the output it can reach for short periods of time before it does a smoke check. For example, My truck has a 140A alternator that will allow up to a 60A draw at 1500 RPM (Alternator Shaft RPM not Engine) at engine idle and up to 140A draw at 6000 RPM (alternator RPM) but the actual draw is determined by the electrical systems and batteries not the alternator. Here is a great article that explains this in detail. www.lifewire.com/understanding-alternator-output-ratings-534785
2. Battery charge current is contralled by the batteries themselves. If the voltage is correct, the typical charge current is between 18-20% of the battery capacity in current for deep-cycle (wet) batteries and increases for AGM and high-cycle batteries to between 25-35%. For example, a 100Ah wet deep-cycle battery can be expected to absorb up to 20A while a AGM or high-cycle battery will typically charge under 30A for the majority of charge." I'm not sure what percentage lithium batteries draw but I would imagine that it is in the 35% or higher range.
So your battery pack is drawing the max potential of your 80A alternator at those RPMs so even though with a 230A alternator you won't see 230A being drawn but it will be significantly higher that what you are seeing at those same RPM's now.
Really liked this one. I hate to say but when you two first started this sailing channel I didn’t think you two would make it. Wrong! Your financials of the Bahamas, camera gear reviews, and this power video are some of my favs. Thank you so much
adamttreat123 --- Oh ye of little faith.
Yes please, tell us more regarding your set up. I love these vid's. Not to many people inform us newbies on the tech that is required to run a boat. Thanks...
I couldn't see in the pics you showed with the alternators, but commonly the choke point for current from an alternator is the power wire coming out of it. It's quite common for engine manufacturers to cheap out and put thin gauge wire for power from the alternator. Thin gauge wire + distance to the battery = higher resistance and lower amperage. Upgrading the wiring up to a lower numerical gauge wire is a fairly quick way to unleash those lost amps. It's commonly called "the Big 3" in the car audio world. And it would absolutely be necessary if you were to upgrade to larger alternators.
I found you guys by searching" Alaska" , now 3 days and 50 videos later ...I want a boat !!! Thanks you guys are fun
Thanks & welcome aboard!
You guys are never boring!
Very well done. You have looked at all options. My first thought was that 200 amp alternator. Yeah, ideally get rid of the generator, add the better alternators, upgrade solar panels, and add more battery. All expensive options. you have worked out something that works for you.
Great real world example. Thanks for sharing your experience. This got me thinking about my 80amp alternator output, which is stock as well.
These are some of my favorite videos of yours. Don't get me wrong I could watch snorkeling videos all day but I find the nuts and bolts of sailing fascinating.
We had the same issue with low alternator output in our 10 yr old monohull. Look at external alternator regulators. Our output went from 18A on a 60A alternator to 60A battery input. One drawback is heat. When the alternator puts out so much power it gets hot. Ours is a Sterling PDAR - when the alternator gets too hot, it pulls down on output to protect the alternator. My family has been sailing (weekends/holidays) in Scandinavia for the last 10+ years. I haven’t watched too much UA-cam sailing channels, but I like how you also show the ‘flip side’ of boating.
Love you guys. The vibes you put off in your videos are infectious with positivity.
Your efficency issue with your alternators is do to your circuit which fills the starter battery...an external regulator will solve that and you will see much more of your 80 amps....your didnt mention menthanol fuel cells
Good job explaining alternatives. As coastal cruiser the solar was of most interest to me. Please keep up the good work.
I'm planning on getting my first sailboat and yours is like a spaceship, soooo coool.. awesome video as always :)
Great video guys. Thank you from a random land dweller in Australia. All the best.
We have the same meter on our Leopard. First time boat owners though so we weren't keen to use it properly and no one had shown us how to use it. You just did that for us, thank you so much. Very educational on many levels. Our Northern Lights generator recently seized so we have been considering various options. We absolutely LOVE the alternator upgrade idea and will start the homework on that project to see what's involved for our particular Yanmars. Eager to see what gear you have to run the A/C without the generator. Cheers mates!
Thanks for another great video--FULL of good info. My husband has been chomping at the bit waiting for it too, so thanks! :) God bless!
The Evans family
Love when you explain the fine details of full time boat life. Jason when you a chance can you do a video on your water maker the in and outs of using it and how it works. I learn a lot watching your videos. Happy sailing ⛵️
Love the 'technical' videos - Thanks for sharing how you make it happen!
Excellent video. Hopefully you guys do more videos like this in the future. It's not often you get to see people explain stuff in such detail. Thanks
Hi Guys.
The BIG alternators are what I was waiting for you to mention. Wyn Wyn Wyn [ pardon the pun ]. They take up no extra space, cost nothing to run and are fool proof.
Great Vid.
Thanks.
David Downunder.
Just gonna watch this 15 more times! A lot of numbers. I love it though! I want to take a class in electricity. Well done! Thank you!
I am behind in viewing, but week after week you guys produce such great entertainment and education. You make everything more realistic of doing this in the future when I'm free to pursue it. (long story short, I'm a caregiver for my mother)
good to see you have lithium starter batteries we were wondering whether it is worth to ditch the lead acid starter batteries from the start and install lithium from the start? our leopard 45 is only arriving in august and we are now in preparation phase. i am not sure how you feel on inter channel collaboration, but may i "card link" your charging battery episode with our battery episode coming up next week?
I'm glad you talked about hydro and wind turbines. I'm looking into a houseboat and renewable energy is something I'm quite keen on.
So the alternators. You engine starts off of the battery. Once it’s running and the alt tops off the battery the engine runs off of the alternator. Basically it uses the sixty-ish amps to run the engine and the left over 27-28 that you see is meant to either charge the battery or run additional electrical components. So it is making the 80ish amps but the motor itself uses the majority of what it produces. This is the same with all engines. We deal with this on motorcycles all the time. Love y’all love the show can’t wait to go sailing myself.
I like you guys. Always watch when you post a new video. I just want to say this. Don't ditch the generator. You have adapted to it this far and as they say "better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it. Well do what you have to and safe travels Good luck .
We won't ditch the gene until it dies...which is hopefully a long ways off. ;)
Absolutely helpful as my bride and I narrow down boat (catamaran) choice and how to configure it. Also, with so many accolades, we will be engaging Kent to help us when the time comes. Thanks, guys, you are the best !! 😊💕✨🥂🥃✨⛵️⚓️
Don’t know how I missed this but can’t say that now. Appreciate your input very much
Hey Kids, great power-tour! You did answer many questions about how you take care of your charging systems. Your thoughts on the wind generation systems were good reasons NOT to have one. Hope you are enjoying your time their!
yay! mid-week video! woot :) thanks! I love learning about solar stuff. I feel like there are so many options that I eventually just throw my hands up bcz I can't decide what to get. I feel much more informed when y'all explain things. Have you guys considered the bicycle-powered washer? lol exercise and "warsh yer drawers." The people who DIY them are very committed to off-grid living.
You both are just adorable, keep having fun !
Is it Wynnday already??? Then why am I at work?? I’m so confused!
But any way you look at it, any Wynnday is a GREAT day!
As always great video of your enthusiasm and the information have a great day
W
Absolutely loved this one as it gave me a better understanding of what I will need. Love your Videos and look forward to seeing them every week. I could watch a lot more on the systems you are using as I think your boat has one of the best setups I have seen on the Sailing youtube channels
Nikki & Jason - Great video. I live in Irving, not far from where guys lived before you started your adventures. I have a 6 kilowatt solar array in my backyard. Loved how you setup your solar, and agree with your wishes for a larger alternator for each of your engines. Keep your Thursday videos going, I enjoy the how-to breaks on Thursdays. God bless, be safe & have fun.
Thank you for the information, I have watched nearly all your videos. Questions I have are, 1 the Charge controller is it intended to match with the power supply or the batteries. 2 how are your Lithium batteries holding. I understand you have two 12volt 300 Ah. 3 Are the batteries connected in series or Parallel. Sorry if you have answered these questions many times before, perhaps you could just direct me to those answers.
Loved the video! We get excited when we get 12 amps out of our tiny solar system. Hydro is nice, but we have found that it only produces real power when sailing at speeds above 6 knots (our electric motor acts as a hydrogenator when sailing).
I think those solar panels on the cockpit top are superb.
Very informative for self proclaimed amateurs. I wonder if your engine alternator spill-off controller is not quite working as you expect it. Maybe it simply cuts off but I am sure you've already covered that possibility. On a previous boat, we had two alternators ran by the engine, one 60A was dedicated to the engine and the other, a 120A unit was dedicated to the house bank. It worked ok until we had broken belts in the middle of a passage only to find out that our spare belts were the wrong size... oops! Belt issues aside, the dual alternator is a fairly easy and low cost mod and provides hefty power while motoring. Good to know about your lesson learned on the generator and thanks for adding the costs as well, these will come in handy while we shop for a boat. I hope you guys still like your Leopard, it's one of the models we've been looking at too. Maybe a 47 instead. Wishing you easy, breezy passages and lots of fun experiences. Cheers from Utah!
I loved this video, I always wondered about the power draw, please keep up the great videos
We have (2) 135W solar panels, an AirBreeze wind generator and 3/5KV Genset + Balmar 100 alternator. We have a DC Spectra Catalina watermaker. The AirBreeze is great, very quiet and puts out another 6-10 amps in 15-20 knots of wind. If it wasn’t for hot water, I might no longer have the genset. We have AC/Heat but only use at dockside or with genset. 42’ Jeanneau SO42DS
Excellent, thanks so much for sharing!
Good explanation of your issues. To start out, it should be admitted that you use a LOT of electricity. That said, it is very smart that you have multiple sources to generate electricity. Bravo for upgrading your batteries to Lithium and bravo for your early video explaining your reasoning for that upgrade. Maybe get rid of the genset and upgrade the engine alternators. At the very least, upgrade your alternators so you would rarely have to use your genset.
I really like these info type video's. The lithium AC discussion will be relevant to a lot of people. You will get a lot of attention when you discuss your battery usage etc... Thank for the video. GOD bless. JC
This is one video I’ll save for future reference. Thanks. And congrats for doing it with just enough info and data !
Ahh, yeah! I love the tech talk and the fixes, the frustrated happy endings...its all great! Even I am going to get a amp clamp!
Love your videos. You asked about other alternatives for charging. I’ve been looking at micro turbine generators. Much smaller and lighter than diesel generator. More efficient and much more reliable and easy to maintain since there’s only one moving part and best of all, fuel agnostic. Can run one diesel, gas, propane or even used cooking oil.
Another emerging technology is of course fuel cell generators. Small, light weight, really efficient and virtually silent. No moving parts, so ultra reliable too. Only down side at the moment is sourcing methane or other fuel packs in far off places. Could have them shipped ahead to a marina but needs planning.
Might be worth a look. Good luck.
Thanks guys for sharing all your info. Another great video. Your smiles are contagious. :)
awesome episode guys, thanks for being so candid and providing such valuable information to us viewers! Cheers from PEI Canada, Bryan.
Well done! It is so hard to talk people into getting a battery monitor... Any more, I use that as a determining factor to decide if I should help them to design and install a solar system for their RV (same would be for a sailboat). 2012 Tiffin Breeze with 1200 watts of solar
Add on note- heavier wire (and short runs) would help to increase the charging output from your boat alternators by a few amps. This would also be required if you should upgrade your alternators to significantly increase the amps to the batteries. Its just ohms law and math...
Great information guys! Thanks.
Very cool. Great to be able have multiple options for power generation.
I love these type of videos. Makes me feel like I could actually do it.... in a dream.
Great video guys yeah I think the large alternator is going to be our future as you probably know the Class B motorhomes are doing away with generators in lieu of large alternators if they could incorporate General Motors variable displacement technology it would be even better where you only use a few cylinders of say a 6 or an 8-cylinder engine
Your alternators on your engines can be modified to give you a higher amps, with the flip of a switch. It is a small conversion on the stators. The wiring need to be converted from star to delta and a switch to bypass your voltage regulator. If your alternators are Bosch, it will be a bonus, very easy to convert.
Once Graphene is cheap, we could have sails made of it, so while we sail we charge our batteries with solar ;)
Great Video, thanks for sharing
Just wanting to say HI! Love your vids guys! Really enjoy em! Heck, it's just nice seeing you back on the boat and chillin... The info's great though too!
A couple of things you may want to consider before buying high output alternators :
1) a high output alternator will get much closer to putting out it's rated current then a standard alternator but it never put out rated current. My 80amp high output alternator puts out a little over 60 max.
2) You will want to install a controller with your new alternator. This will insure that you are not over charging the batteries. However, to protect your batteries it is constantly dropping the current the closer your batteries get to fully charged. Unless your batteries run down you will not see your alternators max output
3) batteries have a maximum amount of charging current they can take no matter what. Anything above that can cause problems.
This maybe information you already know but I like your videos and I have a boat and think about the same issues . I also am an Electrical engineer and this is the one topic I though I could contribute.
Jason, I was at a presentation the other night that was being put on by one of our local marine electronics services providers and he had a couple of interesting ideas that were not in your list but are worth considering, 1. He uses and is installing more methanol fuel cell chargers on boats, the may be expensive but he indicated no moving parts, no noise and very fuel efficient. 2. he indicated that they are now stacking multiple battery chargers, the idea being that when the generator is being used just for battery charging it is running at a very low load, so the generator can accommodate additional chargers that charge the batteries much faster, so you are not having to run the generator as long. He was from Pacific yacht systems in Vancouver. Love your videos
Great video folks. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and as always keeping it fun. Safe travels.
Very informative. Wow, you guys have come a long ways from the RV days.
Great vid guys , Wendy was glued to the screen lol.. gotta get me one of those 230 amp alts :)
Thank you for a great episode - very interesting.
I Think you have a problem....
You see, your gennie should give you somewhere at least 400A when running. Now your alternators on the Engines are 80A but only give you near 25A. Well, some goes to the Engine but that is really a very small amount.
What your problem is....... losses.
I bet you have way too thin Cables in combination with long runs to your battery bank. This is a reason why trucks and busses have a 24V system instead of 12V to get the lamps to light in the rear of the semi trailer.)
If you measure the diameter of the Cables (excluding insulation) and measure the runs (approx) and google any "voltage drop calculator" you can see what losses there is to expect or what kind of Cables you would need not to have these losses.
Now, take it from a tight Swede, it will be much better economy for you to buy better Cables than to buy very expensive alternators.
Same goes with your solar. I bet you can gain some watts/Amperage from your solar using better Cables.
Cheers from Sweden
I agree about the cables. The problem is that the regulator witch regulates the output of the alternator is sampling the voltage at the battery of the engine.
Because there is a voltage drop in the cable and often you even go through a secondary battery controller (with voltage drop) there is not much voltage left to charge your battery.
With solar panels it is in my opinion less critical because the panels have a higher voltage to overcome this loses.
very interesting video!
What about an aftermarket regulator on those alternators to really juice them up? Could be a cheap middle ground solution,
Conventional alterators will overheat snd burn or, or cut their output, because they are not rated for continuous output. Regulators also have conventions. Yes, uou can get continous heavy output, but it won't be cheap and it won't be with stock automotive components.
Trucks and busses only use 24 volts for starting. They operate on 12 volts and all of the lights are 12 volt.
The reason the batteries are accepting 25A from the engine alternator is because that is all the current the batteries can accept due to output voltage of the alternator.
You battery charger charges the battery at a higher rate because it runs at a higher voltage than the engine alternator. This also tends to cook your batteries.
A standard 12 volt alternator puts is regulated to output about 14.1 volts.
What is voltage of your lithium battery bank?
The 25A your alternator put out is you base load.
By the way, still impressed with your analytical skills and knowledge.
We all go astray with the analysis once in awhile except there is no
excuse for me when I do it.
We just love to hear you 2 talk keep up the good videos
I loved this, super informative. If anything I would like to see more details in how the boat works and repairs.....loving your channel though, inspiring seeing newbies take it all on.
Check out the blog! There's a tab for "mods & maintenance" and a search bar at the bottom of each page to help you find what you're looking for. www.gonewiththewynns.com/sailing
Curious Minion
Good information. If you go with larger alternators you'll be trading a small amount of engine performance for more electrical power. A good role of thumb is 750 watts is 1 horse power. So right now your alternators are using about 1 horse power from the engine, with the larger alternators that could mean 4-5 horse power. Which means less speed from the engine or burning more fuel maybe both. Of course me being a power junkie would also get 2 or more extra batteries for all that extra power to go to.
William Bays ...true. Enter the electromagnetic clutch to disengage the (usually) second oversized alternator. Very typical instal for this app and have been around for decades.
Great video. The info vids are some of my favourites.
capt'n re your idea about installing high capacity alternators -- I would keep the small alternators to only charge starting batteries and add large case alternators for house battery charging. I would be careful about going too large on alternators, you don't want to compromise your engines. about 140 amps each would do just fine. those 240 amp units are real beasts not at all suited for your 40 hp diesels. everything in moderation equals reliability. also, as you probably have learned not all electrical techs are up on lithium systems which equals funky if not dangerous systems. fair winds
I always enjoy your tech videos
Correct square area on each cable for each application is indeed essential for getting the system to run smoothly. Yes it takes time to rerun the ones that needs to be changed, but all of that can be done by yourself, and is much less expensive than replacing alternators and so on. 🔧 If I was to advise you: check and replace cables first. And it’s a good way to get to know every inch of your yacht. How much is your washing machine drawing? And the AC? An ampere clamp is essential for you and costs about $60.
Was selling the generator to fund the upgraded alternators not an option?
I'd be interested in a more detailed inverter / how you have the solar setup done video.
Very informative and surprisingly interesting. I found I like these tech and repair videos.
Which videos can I go to that can help me understand my set up. I put this 400 watt solar panel with 4 6 volt batteries in as I was told. So I understand it? No! I will bit I am not good at that sort of thing. I would rather sit around and try to play my guitar. Lol.... 64 retired liver transplant guy. But with all the sun in this area ( lake Havasu area) o had to cause its the smart way to go. As far as free energy. Well I am into it close to 2 grand at least! So it’s not free, but no generator noise, no oil changes, no going to town for fuel. And it just gives me a good feeling about using the sun. I love it. Even though this is the first day, thanks guys, been watching you for quite awhile. Even started my own YT channel . I love making videos. Oh ya that reminds me. I can plug stuff in and charge when ever I want now. No more . Putting shoes on, get flash light so I don’t bump into a snake. Turn on radio with timer and not worry about having to stay awake to turn off generator. I AM GOING TO LOVE THIS! Bye
Awesome video indeed. Thank you! Regarding watt & sea and your sugar scoops you might want to check out their new watt & sea POD. Please continue with your videos. Ralf
Awesome! Thank you! I hope vertical wind generators become more efficient.
I know you have followed Delos; do you recall when they had that problem on passage - maybe inverter? - and were deadly low in battery and had to turn off many instruments and everything possible. I think Brady had this cobbled together thing that spun in the water and was tied to a rope they then connected to something else ? Alternator?? They tossed it in the water behind them and as they sailed, it spun & gave them enough juice to turn back on instruments. It wasn't a lot, but on passage, especially at night, some amps for little effort or $ would be useful. The thing they dumped in the water in their wake wasn't important - it was the twisting spinning rope that turned something that gave them the charge.
Another great informative video. Thank you.
Stay solar and sunny......... Thanks as always enjoy your videos!
You guys are awesome! I'm loving your vids, and I have so very many more to view yet! Thanks for sharing your experiences :)
The Genset is also provided to power the whole boat for electricity. I know you don't use it that way but it is a full source of offshore power; AC's, Kitchen, Heads, Washer/Dryewr, H2O maker, etc., etc., etc.
very informative great video, I like the idea of upgrading the alt's and saving the weight. that look like the best opt to me. I understand the cost.
Thank you, great video. Stay well & happy.
Enjoyed the video! Generators can be hateful things, but one thing they do provide, is back up to the inverter, and your 110V system. I'm sure you've thought about that as well when it comes to replacing it with high amp alternators.
We carry a small backup inverter because we have had our inverter crap out before. ;) Lesson learned...a very painful lesson.
You should contact mechman for a performance alternator. The have models that are 320amps! I’m sure they can get you hooked up if you ask. They do a lot of custom applications in the sound system world. Good luck guys! I always enjoy your videos.
nice and informative as usual guy's great job :))) chris
I'm sure if you read comments on your older videos I'm making my way through your videos from beginning to current. That being said you may have already updated your alternators. If you have not it look at the car audio forums. Car audio guys have been putting high output alternators on vehicles for years to charge their lithium batteries. It is much more economical than you think it is and there is very little retrofitting that has to be done you can get this design to match perfectly with the bracket system you have now.