Batteries and Seacocks

[stavidlin]

Questions about batteries and seacocks:

Batteries:  I read in the library that there are two batteries, one of them should be the starter battery.  That one would be the one that you should change to when starting the boat I presume.  When I bought the boat, I noticed both batteries say "second" on them.  I would presume that would mean neither one is the starter battery.  When I crank the boat, it sounds as though the battery needs a charge but my battery charger says they are both fully charged.  Got any advice?

Seacocks:  How do I know if it's open or closed?  Specifically the seacock for the head.  It is in the up position.  It has been up since I've owned the boat.  I'm scared to put it in the down position because I don't want to take in water while under way.  Appreciate the help.

[DaleM]

The word second on the battery is most likely cause it was new old stock.  I have 2 of them in my boat as well from a group buy years ago.  Ended up getting AGM batteries for half price.  As for the seacocks they are 1/4 turn ball valves.  When the handle is inline with the valve or up and down the valve is open.  90 degrees to the valve it's closed.  Sounds like it's been open already.

[stavidlin]

The word second on the battery is most likely cause it was new old stock.  I have 2 of them in my boat as well from a group buy years ago.  Ended up getting AGM batteries for half price.  As for the seacocks they are 1/4 turn ball valves.  When the handle is inline with the valve or up and down the valve is open.  90 degrees to the valve it's closed.  Sounds like it's been open already.

Is it safe to run it in the open position?  Also, there is a seacock for the sea water filter that is closed.  It has an enclosed cooling system.  Should that be open as well?

[Dream 'Inn]

Seacock is fine to be open when running.  Actually, it is probably needed for the raw water portion of cooling for your manifold/risers which is typically not cooled by antifreeze.

[Rinker342]

The seacock levers should have wording indicating open or closed with a little arrow showing the direction, but, as DaleM says, it sounds like yours is open.  Running with the seacock for the head is ok.

[Capt Ron]

You didn't mention a battery switch type on your boat. Given it size I would guess it's a Battery 1 and 2 and both and off. First, isolate which battery is which on the switch. Do this by putting on the stereo, put the switch on 1 or two and disconnect the batteries individually until the stereo goes out. Now that you know which battery is which. Go out and buy a new cranking battery and deep cycle. Connect the batteries to the appropriate positions and use the cranking battery to start your engine. When at anchor switch over to the deep cycle. This way if you ever drain the deep cycle battery low, you can always start your engine by switching over to the cranking battery. Let us know how you make out.

[stavidlin]

Lots of food for thought.  The sea water filter seacock is in the closed position and my mechanic said it is odd that it is closed but didn't mention opening it so i will try running it this weekend with it open.  I will also invest in a good starter and deep cycle battery and get that taken care of.  Thanks all for all your help!