on-board chargers

[hawgwobbler]

Has anyone else had any problems with onboard chargers? I got one as a gift last season and it already is out of order. Of course my warranty is up, since I recieved it for christmas in 2004. I'm so angry with the dump that is out on the market. They claim that you can leave the charger on for days or even for the duration that you store your boat but of course that doesn't happen. The person who bought the charger spent good money, and I spent lots of time wiring the stupid thing just so I can rip it out one season later. I wouldn't be so mad but the same thing happened to my father a couple of years ago. I say stick with the standard automotive battery chargers they are cheaper and last five times longer. I won't say which company makes these crappy chargers but for those who are interstead, be my "GUEST" and email me.

[Big-Al]

I have another brand but mine is on season 6 and I could not be happier. I leave it plugged in all winter long. I believe it adds years of life to your batteries.

Don't be so sure that you can't get a replacement under warranty especially if was water damage. They have a lifetime waranty for water damage. Good luck.

[beer batter]

I had one of those brand chargers go out on me a couple years ago. I think it was due to a battery that would no longer hold a charge. The charger probably kept running non-stop trying to charge a battery that had gone bad. Worked fine up until that point.

Wish there was some sort of indicator that the battery was bad. Most just show a status that it's charging. Now I peak in on the charger once in a while and if I notice it's been charging longer than I think it should, I'll pull the batteries and run my own test. Not real convenient, but better than dropping a couple hundred more on a burnt out charger. Just had a battery go bad last weekend but luckily the charger still works.

[Pat K]

Call Sue D at Guest. 1 888 483 7865 ext 135. I've heard of them replacing units even after the warranty period.