TFD2001 wrote:
I'm not convinced that new batteries will do the trick. The wiring is still likely the root cause of the problem. The bypass, if it is the same as what mine was, only lowered the cutoff voltage 1 volt or less, so, in my case, because of the wiring, it would still drop below that cutoff point after a short time on batteries. I've added extra sets of batteries to my boat, and should have the battery capacity to run my fridges at minimum 2 days without starting a motor or generator, but I wasn't even getting 4 hours. After the wiring switch, I've yet to have it shut off during a weekend on the hook, mildly running the stereo, and also running the cockpit fridge to keep the beer cold (which never has had the problem mentioned in this thread, but is a Norcold I believe)..
Bliss, I just retraced the original wiring from the control panel in the cabin, to the fridge. The wiring to the control panel, is apparently heavy enough... However, the fridge is on the opposite side of the cabin from the panel, and to do that run, they went all the way around to the stern, through the engine compartment, and back up the other side.. I followed the same route, and with a lot of cussing, got it done. I wouldn't have gained a whole lot if I just went straight to the battery switch as you spoke, so I just kept it "stock" so to speak.. If you have that close of a shot, I would probably do as you're suggesting, for the simple fact, the shorter the run, and the less stuff in the run (breakers and switching and what not), the better off you'll be. Ideally, the more direct you are to the batteries, the better wiring wise, but you also have to make it manageable for purposes like you mentioned...
x2 - Do the wiring change, we witnessed the same voltage drop issues at our cabin fridge, we jumpered it also. If your only 5 feet away you've got a lot nicer job then most! I went directly off the end of the house bank (three group 31 batteries) with an inline fuse. You should also be able to shut your fridge off with the temp control dial, mine has an off position (Novacool). We run both cockpit and cabin fridges all weekend, Friday night to Sunday afternoon and the big cabin fridge stays good and cold, never shuts off. My battery voltage still shows mid to low 11's for volts at the end of the weekend with my battery bank. Best part is you don't need or have to listen to any bloody generators all weekend!
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