Charging dual Batteries wired for 24V

[Monkey]

I just picked up my new rig which came with dual batteries set up for 24v to run the I-Pilot 80 Minn Kota. I now have to decide the best way to charge the batteries.

My understanding is if I get a 12v dual-output Minn Kota charger the batteries have to be isolated from each other for charging.
If I get a Ctek 24v charger I just have to leave it as a 24v system to charge with out having to isolate the batteries.

Is one approach better than the other apart from cost?
All advice appreciated.

Cheers,

[llourd]

Re: Charging dual Batteries wired for 24V

you are correct sir - a 12v charger means you have disconnect your batteries and charge them separately while a 24v charger is easier because you can leave them connected. big price difference though
if you go ctek you want the model 14000 - will cost you about 370 on ebay.

[fish'n'chippy]

Re: Charging dual Batteries wired for 24V

If you disconnect the 24volt load (ie. Unplug the motor) you can charge each battery individually with a 12volt charger without removing the bridge between the 2 batteries
(so an electrician tells me)

[netmaker]

Re: Charging dual Batteries wired for 24V

installing a battery switch to isolate when charging is also easy.

[Feral]

Re: Charging dual Batteries wired for 24V

If your batteries are the same size, brand and age, charge at 24 volt.
If not charge individually as 12 volt. No need to remove from the 24 volt harness, just add individual plugs for charging each at 12 volts. If you want to use daily though, you might need two 12 volt chargers if your using the batteries heavily. (Otherwise you wont be able to charge both batteries fully, and you should only use them in 24 volt mode when they are at the same state of charge)

[cormorant]

Re: Charging dual Batteries wired for 24V

Redarc do a transformer so you can also get some charge in them while on the water as well from your outboard.

.

[Monkey]

Re: Charging dual Batteries wired for 24V

Thanks for the input every one.
I'll go with the Minn Kota dual 12v system. It's $70 dearer than the Ctek but it's waterproof and can be left in the boat without any worries.