Remote Battery Filling System

http://www.batteryfillingsystems.com/default.asp?page=home

I have no experience with this system but it was recommended by someone on a boating EMAIL list that I subscribe to, and looks like it might solve a problem on my boat.

Basically it uses special replacement battery caps that are tied together with plastic tubing and a remote filling device. Each cap has a float valve which closes when the cell is full. They sell different types of caps and floats depending on battery type.

It is being marketed to industrial and golf cart users but I can't see any reason why it wouldn't work on a boat.

Rolls makes a great battery, no question. On the other hand the cost of a Rolls 8D is somewhere north of $500 if my memory is correct. I recently purchased a brand X 8D from NAPA auto parts for $160. Assuming I get the usual 5 years from it, I'll be money ahead.

Larry

Would you have Rolls owners remain silent about their batteries to avoid appearing "snobbish," or would you have them lie, claiming instead that they use Duracells?

You can be a very silly person at times, you know?

Rolls pencils out if you figure the more typical three years from a generic battery. If you pay somebody to replace the battery for you, or if you value the time involved or put any value on avoiding the risk of physical injury associated with "horsing" 150 pounds in what always turns out to be an incorrect posture, the Rolls puts you money ahead. The warranty on Rolls is 10 years, (vs 24-36 months for most Brand X), and life expectancy is often several years beyond the end of the warranty.

The other spiffy thing about the Rolls is that when most batteries fail it's a failure in a single cell. With most batteries, you have to junk all six cells bcause one has gone bad. With a Rolls, you simply test the cells until you find the bad one, unbolt the bad cell from the network, buy one new cell instead of six new cells, and forge ahead.

We had the raw water pump fail on our primary generator last year mid way through a cruise of the Abaco out islands. After spending a futile couple of hours trying to locate a new one, we continued on using the backup generator. If both generators fail I can now generate enough 12 volt amperage with the main engine alternators to power a 2 KW inverter. That's enough to keep the holding plate fridges and freezer cold, or do some light duty cooking. It would be an act of hubris to rename the boat the M/V Unstoppable but it comes as close as I know to make it.

Also, with all of the plumbing, etc, how do you get the lid back onto the battery box? Cut some additional holes?

(I use a hydro-cap on my Rolls batteries, does a lot to prevent loss of electrolyte),

I still have 3 8Ds that are charged by the older charger and they require regular water replenishment. If I were going to keep the boat, I'd consider investing in a smart charger for them as well.

Might be worth considering on the GB, though.

Eisboch