Running the engine to charge batteries is a poor solution at best to deliver amp hours back into the cells. A shore powered multi stage charger is far better. So, I added a Powermania 12 amp 2-bank “smart” charger that plugs into an appropriate extension cord led forward in the cabin and up through the bow dorade to pier supplied electrical power.
Other adds/fixes are:
- Battery monitor: Xantrex LinkLite. This effectively a true amp hour “fuel gauge” to know the state of the batteries.
- 12 volt/ USB outlets for all the 12v components now used from phones, cameras, speakers, handheld VHF, GPS, etc.
- Bilge pump switch works now in manual mode, but automatic mode will require a float switch of some sort. I’ve a Water Witch switch from Luna that may serve. The wine glass bilge may be a challenge. We’ll see.
- VHF Radio: a Uniden waterproof (overkill?) VHF radio is now mounted and powered. The masthead antenna will have to wait for a Spring haul out.
BEFORE:
AFTER:
May need a few more breakers as instruments and autopilot are added, but for now the boat is much improved. More later-
Lingering Lunacy 
More breakers… autopilot! Alas, poor Ned Ludd, left again at the dock!
Dead Ned? Yeah, he was getting a bit rank.
Eddie, really shaping up nicely. So glad to see all new 12 volt gear, impressive!
I know you think of me when you hit that bilge pump.
Yes. Got to give credit where it is due!