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1999 FD201 with fishing package - Help me understand these batteries! (pics)

I just purchased a 1999 FD 201 I/O with the fishing package.  When looking at the battery compartment, I see 2 batteries.  The one on the left (let's call it battery #1) has 2 hots and 2 grounds connected to it and both run up the port side of the hull.  See pic.



The second battery is closer to the engine and has a significantly larger set of wires that head back toward the engine and console.  I only get power at the console with this battery connected.  See pic.



I don't see any switch between the two batteries at all.  I do see that I have what looks to be a power outlet up by where the fishing seats snap in.  Could it be that battery #1 is only used to power a trolling motor if installed?  Does it do anything else?  What is the purpose of the 2 hot/2 ground on battery 1?  Is that to close the loop for recharging?

Any help is appreciated.

Comments

  • pensapilot
    pensapilot Member Posts: 2
    Not sure, but my guess would be the extra hot and ground connect to your bilge pump.  I can't say what is "normal" but I believe the bilge float switch would be hot wired so it comes on automatically.  You would also be able to turn it on manually, but I think you can see the reason for the pump to be activated by either method.


  • mikey
    mikey Member Posts: 1
    The large cables on battery 1 is for trolling motor all 4.  It's hooked up now for 12v usage. you have 4 so you could hook up 24v.
    Battery 2 is for your motor. The 2 large cables should run directly to the motor, or a selector switch if you have one then to the motor.
    The small wires should be to power your switches, lights, acc. and so on there should be 2 sets of small wires on batt 2 the other set should go to auto bilge. It does not look like you are charging batt 1 with the alternator.
  • cpferris
    cpferris Member Posts: 6
    mikey said:
    The large cables on battery 1 is for trolling motor all 4.  It's hooked up now for 12v usage. you have 4 so you could hook up 24v.
    Battery 2 is for your motor. The 2 large cables should run directly to the motor, or a selector switch if you have one then to the motor.
    The small wires should be to power your switches, lights, acc. and so on there should be 2 sets of small wires on batt 2 the other set should go to auto bilge. It does not look like you are charging batt 1 with the alternator.
    Thanks for this info mikey.  Given I am unlikely to use the fishing capabilities of the boat, battery #1 is essentially a spare battery then.  Is access to battery #1 simply provided through the cigarette style adapter that come through the bow by where the fishing seats attach?  

    As for #2, I only see one set of small wires attached, (which I assume are for the switches/accessories).  Given what you said about auto bilge, I am wondering if there is another set of wires somewhere that are not connected?