Posts: 702
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Home Port: Kings Park, NY
Vessel Info: 2003 38' Open Cummin's 6CTA's (450 hp)
I have a 2003 38 Open with a pair of Cummin's 6CTA Diamond Diesels with 6 series 31 GEL Batteries (3 house & 3 Engine). The original,charger was a C- Charles series 5000 charger (40 amp) and it recently failed... Need a replacement and understand C-Charles chargers are no loner in production although I found one one-line (new)... Didn't believe it was a good idea to purchase as there was no warrantee with the unit (sold new but as is).. I'm looking for a replacement that supports charging GEL batteries. Know I've seen posts in the past and am looking for recommendations....Talked to a marine electrician and he recommended a Victron Centaur Charger as its almost an exact replacement... Any thoughts/recommendations?
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Home Port: Lake Michigan
Vessel Info: 52 Sovran, Cat 3406
Can’t go wrong with either Victron or Mastervolt.
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Home Port: Kings Park, NY
Vessel Info: 2003 38' Open Cummin's 6CTA's (450 hp)
thx for the recommendation
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Home Port: Newport
Centaur is a good choice for replacement if you're sure you're sticking with Gel/not going lithium. Note the 40/50/60 amp versions are all the same size, and the 60A is only slightly more expensive--would just need to check wire gauge and breakers. If you never require a quick recharge, then 40A would be fine. If you have a local installer that sells Victron I would encourage you to buy it directly from him.
