Newbie Question

[wildtalk]

Does my 1997 Johnson fast strike have an alternator ? If not whats best way to keep a charge in Dry Dock,, Solar ?

[Blue_Runner]

If you don't have a battery switch it would be best to disconnect the battery.

[tsubaki]

I agree with Blue!
Most engines have some voltage leakage, further adding to the problem is the wiring leaking even though everything is turned off.
Charging the batteries ahead of time, having a battery selector switch and connecting the bilge pump (fused of course) directly to the battery or at the selector switch will stop the majority of problems associated with batteries in the boat. When dry docked, pull the fuse to the bilge pump.
An easy test to see if the charging system of the engine is operating would be to take a reading at the battery terminal (usually around 12.5 volts) then crank the engine and while running again test the battery.
It will read a higher voltage if the engines charging system is working. Usually around 13 or 14 volts.

We keep a boat in the water 24/7/365 using this method and have to replace the cheap battery about every 3 years.

[wildtalk]

I did install a battery guage to keep an eye on the main battery ,, and also a 2nd battery for bilge and pump for bait well.. The 2nd battery I have a 5w solar pannel attached... When its in dry dock its on a rack at my yacht club. may put another 5w solor on main battery while its in the rack,, but dont have a lot of faith in them,

[reelapeelin]

Yes, your engine DOES charge your cranking battery while it's running...all the suggestions here will help keep it charged while not running...another consideration is an onboard battery charger...if you have a 2nd battery for bilge-pump, etc, you might want to consider an onboard charger as it is NOT being charged by your motor...I had 2 Guest chargers on my boat and LOVED 'em/11...plug 'em in and FORGET about them short term or long term...your batteries will be hot to go when you're ready!!...