Recent content by LakeErieWX

I checked the tanks, and the sending unit on the port tank is not connected to the gauge. The valves to the crossover hoses are open so the sending unit on the starboard tank should provide a reading for both tanks. However, we haven't purchased fuel yet and I have been wondering how you know...

Rich, Thanks, your post is a big help. I must admit that while I noticed that both tanks have a sending unit, I can't confirm that the starboard tank is wired. Mark

We are new owners of a 2001 Mainship 34 Pilot. After sailing for more than 30 years, this is our first powerboat. We have a single engine and two 125 gallon fuel tanks. Each tank has a fuel sending unit, but there is only one fuel gauge at the helm. There is no option on the gauge to switch...

Don, I think the only battery switch with multiple inputs is the one for Bank 3. The inputs are the battery, the backup battery charger, and the flow via combiner 1. The battery switches are inconveniently located in the engine compartment under the bridge deck. It's a hassle to clear the...

Iggy, Perhaps my drawing is creating confusion, but the charge from the inverter would be connected to Bank 1. As with the flow from the alternator, the charge from the inverter to Bank 2 from the DC to DC charger and Bank 3 through Combiner 1. Does this make sense? Thanks, Mark

Thanks for the replies, I appreciate the advice. Attached is an updated schematic. The battery switches will be On/Off only so there will be connection between the banks during discharge. I have a couple of questions about the revised layout: The engine bank is currently the largest and...

Thanks! I was considering which bank was preferred for the alternator. Mark

Based on the replies here and additional research online, I am working on a revised layout that consolidates batteries into banks, eliminates confusion and the need to constantly change the battery switch between house and engine.To keep things simple, I have excluded fuses, etc. from the...

Iggy, Thanks for the reply. On question 1, I can disconnect the inverter from power by using the switch. I was curious why battery 1 was wired to the primary battery switch and the inverter input. It seems redundant since power flows from the battery switch to the inverter input. On question...

Bmarler, Thanks! It's great to hear that I'm on the right track. Mark

Late last year we purchased a 2001 Mainship 34 Pilot. One of my projects for this winter is to make sense of the DC electrical system. I have a basic working knowledge of electrical systems, but this experience is based on owning older sailboats with much simpler systems (and no inverters). I am...

We are relatively new owners of a 2001 Mainship 34 Pilot. In order to completely clean the fuel tanks and eliminate any concerns of sludge, I am considering installing an inspection port in each baffled compartment. We've avoided buying fuel this summer so each tank is currently at less than 50%...

It looks like I'll be removing the cabin sole from our 2001 Mainship 34 Pilot. Any advice from someone who has done this project is appreciated. Thanks, Mark

We are considering replacing the aluminum water tank on 2001 Pilot 34. Has anyone undertaken this project? Did you have to pull the engine or is it possible to remove the tank by removing the cabin sole? Thanks, Mark

Peggy, thanks for the information. Even before I peered inside, we weren't thrilled by the aluminum tank. I'll look into the possibility of replacing the tank with a Ronco version. I am familiar with them as we used a Ronco tank on our previous sailboat. Mark