Onboard Charger Install

[Toba]

I have a Minnkota 3 bank charger. I will not be able to reach my starter battery from where I can mount it. What is the best way and durable way to extend the lead? What is the best gauge to use. 14 seems kind of lite. Also do attach the charger right to aluminum or put a piece of wood in there to mount it on? I wanna do it right and I wanna do it once. First time installing one of these. Any help is appreciated.

[Esox_Magnum]

Buy the extension kit made for the brand of charger...

[FM_Mike]

I used the extensions that MinnKota offers also.

As far as mounting, I bought some nylon washers from the local hardware store and put them behind the charger so the charger isn't mounted directly aluminum to aluminum. This is a very easy and cheap way to do it.

Mike

[delmuts]

Another cheap spacer. I took a broken broom handle ( that was lying around)cut four 1 " pcs off it. Drilled a hole in the center and used these as spacers.

[mtwalleye]

I have my two bank charger installed but only need to charge 1 battery. Can I connect both leads to the one battery or what do I do with the second lead?

[mtwalleye]

Anyone have any advice on my question above?

[Esox_Magnum]

Hook the other lead to the cranking battery or just tape the ends off...

[FM_Mike]

I talked to MinnKota and was told that it was OK to put both banks on one battery. They said it would not create an issue just to watch the water in the batteries if you have the one that require maintenance.

The newer chargers have circuits to prevent over charging.

Mike

[mtwalleye]

Thanks for the info. I am going use my two bank charger in my camper to charge a single battery. Looks like I would be ok hooking up both leads or taping one off.