- Joined
- Aug 29, 2012
- Messages
- 2,690
- Location
- Good Ol' US of A!
- Vessel Name
- Pau Hana
- Vessel Make
- 1989 PT52 Overseas Yachtfisher
I was asked about my Wakespeed regulator install- I think they're fantastic!
Hopefully the below will assist those who are contemplating the install...
Hi, Ray,
Your memory is pretty spot on
I do have twin 3208TA (375hp) in the engine room that was originally equipped with 55A alternators. I purchased 2 Lee-Niceville 105A alternators, and had Ballard Electric reconfigure them to external regulation.
I then installed them, and used the Waskespeed WS500 regulators for control. I did look at the Balmar external regulators for a hot minute, but I saw Balmar as cumbersome and archaic relative to the Wakespeed technology. For example, connecting the Balmar regulators together requires wiring in a 3rd piece of gear (the centerfielder), then using a magnetic screwdriver to "program" the functionality.
With Wakespeed, it's a simple plug and play harness to wire up each alternator, then plugging in a standard CAT-5 cable to connect the regulators. You then download the specific battery charging profile into the regulators, and the Wakespeed regulators automatically determine master and slave.
One of the keys is to ensure that the external regulator and the Wakespeed cable match - they will be either P-type or N type. Have the alternator wired, then order the Wakespeed with the correct harness.
All this was part of the greater LFP journey I undertook to take full advantage of the new system.
Hopefully the below will assist those who are contemplating the install...
Portage_Bay said:Peter,
If memory serves you are running twin CAT 3208s and upgraded your OEM alternators to higher output external regulation. Alternators purchased through Ballard Electric and you used Wakespeed WS500 regulator / controllers? That's what I'm thinking of doing. I'm using PM because I'm away from home now and searching on the phone is even worse than TF's usual search methods.
If you think this discussion would benefit the greater TF community I can start anew there.
Any hints, tips and problems to avoid geatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance!
Ray
Hi, Ray,
Your memory is pretty spot on
I do have twin 3208TA (375hp) in the engine room that was originally equipped with 55A alternators. I purchased 2 Lee-Niceville 105A alternators, and had Ballard Electric reconfigure them to external regulation.
I then installed them, and used the Waskespeed WS500 regulators for control. I did look at the Balmar external regulators for a hot minute, but I saw Balmar as cumbersome and archaic relative to the Wakespeed technology. For example, connecting the Balmar regulators together requires wiring in a 3rd piece of gear (the centerfielder), then using a magnetic screwdriver to "program" the functionality.
With Wakespeed, it's a simple plug and play harness to wire up each alternator, then plugging in a standard CAT-5 cable to connect the regulators. You then download the specific battery charging profile into the regulators, and the Wakespeed regulators automatically determine master and slave.
One of the keys is to ensure that the external regulator and the Wakespeed cable match - they will be either P-type or N type. Have the alternator wired, then order the Wakespeed with the correct harness.
All this was part of the greater LFP journey I undertook to take full advantage of the new system.