Troubleshooting A Faulty Perko Boat Battery Switch

Perko battery switches are used to connect or disconnect electrical devices from the electrical system. They are designed for surface mounting and are usually placed in a location that is easily accessible in case of emergencies. However, like any other mechanical device, Perko battery switches can also fail. If your Perko boat battery switch goes bad, you may experience issues such as battery drain, electrical system malfunction, or the switch not functioning at all. In such cases, troubleshooting with a multimeter and checking the wiring diagram can help identify the issue. It is recommended to consult a certified marine electrician for proper diagnosis and repair.

Troubleshooting a Perko battery switch

Firstly, it is important to understand the function of the Perko battery switch. The Perko battery on-off switch is commonly used to turn off the battery when the boat is in storage, preventing rapid battery drain and ensuring it is ready for use when needed. This switch is designed for surface mounting and features a bright red housing for safety, with a large, easy-to-turn black knob.

Secondly, if the Perko battery switch is not functioning as expected, there are a few potential causes to consider. One possibility is that the switch has failed mechanically. Switches can malfunction just like any other mechanical device. To test this, you can use a multimeter to check for voltage at the "Common" terminal on the switch when it is turned off. If there is voltage present, the switch may not be working properly.

Another potential issue could be related to the wiring. It is important to consult the correct wiring diagram for your specific setup, as Perko offers various configurations, including single engine, multiple engines, and multiple batteries. Ensure that the connections at the battery selector switch are correct and refer to the appropriate diagram to verify the wiring.

Additionally, it is important to consider the role of the onboard marine battery charger. If the charger has two positive wires, it is likely designed to service two separate battery banks. The wiring configuration of the charger in relation to the switch may impact its function.

Finally, it is worth noting that some accessories may be connected directly to the batteries, bypassing the switch. This would result in these accessories remaining functional even when the switch is turned off. To address this, the accessory wire should be moved to the common terminal of the battery switch, ensuring that all electrical loads go through the switch.

If you are still unable to identify the issue, it is recommended to consult a certified marine electrician for further assistance. They can provide expert guidance and ensure the proper functioning of your Perko battery switch.

Perko battery switch wiring

Perko battery switches are designed for surface mounting. They are used to connect or disconnect electrical devices from the electrical system and can be used to prevent battery drain during periods of inactivity.

There are several different types of Perko battery switches, each with its own unique wiring diagram. Here is a list of some of the most common types:

Single Engine, Single Battery

This setup is the most straightforward, with the Perko battery switch connected directly to the battery and the engine. The switch allows you to turn the battery on or off, controlling the power supply to the engine.

Single Engine, Two Batteries

In this configuration, the Perko battery switch is used to select which of the two batteries is connected to the engine. The switch position indicates whether battery #1, both batteries, or battery #2 is active.

Two Engines, Two Batteries, Two Switches

For boats with two engines and two batteries, two Perko battery switches are required. Each switch is dedicated to one engine and allows the selection of either battery #1 or battery #2 for starting that specific engine. This setup ensures that each engine has its own battery, avoiding potential battery and electrical issues.

Two Engines, Two Engine Batteries, A Separate Bank of Lighting Batteries, and Two Switches

This setup is similar to the previous one but includes a separate bank of lighting batteries. The port and starboard switches indicate whether the corresponding engine is connected to its engine battery (port or starboard) or the lighting battery. This configuration allows both engines to charge the lighting batteries.

Dual Battery Selector Switch

The Perko Dual Battery Selector Switch offers flexibility by allowing the addition of an extra battery for accessories. It enables the selection between batteries or the combined operation of both batteries in parallel for starting or charging.

Single Battery Disconnect Switch

The Perko Single Battery Disconnect Switch is used to shut off the battery from the electrical system when the vessel is not in use. It serves as a safety measure and can also function as an emergency main disconnect switch during electrical problems.

Medium Duty Battery Selector Switch

Perko's 8501 Series battery selector switches are popular for their ease of installation and traditional Perko bolt circle design. They are commonly used in boats with multiple batteries and engines to manage the electrical system effectively.

Heavy Duty Battery Selector Switch with Alternator Field Disconnect

These heavy-duty switches are designed for high-power applications, rated at up to 380 amps continuous and 850 amps intermittent. They feature an alternator field disconnect as a standard offering protection for Non-Unitized Alternators if accidentally turned off while the engine is running.

It is important to consult a certified marine electrician if you have any doubts or questions about installing or wiring a Perko battery switch. They can provide expert guidance and ensure that your electrical system is set up correctly and safely.

Perko battery switch location

Perko battery switches are designed for surface mounting and can be placed in numerous locations. They are ignition-protected and can be installed in the engine rooms of gasoline-powered boats.

One boat owner with a Hewes Craft Searunner placed their Perko battery switch in a very exposed location near the stern near the splash well. Another owner of a small whaler kept their Perko battery switch under the rail near the stern near the splash well. A third boat owner cut a hole in their boat so that the switch handle was exposed, but the wiring was not.

If you are unsure about how to install or wire a Perko battery switch, consult a certified marine electrician.

Perko battery switch alternatives

Perko battery switches are widely used in boats to manage the use of electrical power onboard. They are used to connect or disconnect electrical devices from the electrical system, prevent battery drain, and allow for a quick shutdown of the electrical system in an emergency. However, like any other mechanical device, Perko battery switches can also fail.

If you suspect that your Perko battery switch is not functioning properly, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the issue. Firstly, check your wiring diagram and compare it to the diagrams available on the Perko website to ensure that your switch is wired correctly. You can also use a multimeter to test the switch if you have some electrical knowledge. If your switch is faulty, you may need to replace it with an alternative product.

• Blue Sea Systems: Blue Sea Systems offers a range of battery switches, including the ML-Series Battery Switch, which is suitable for marine applications. Their products are known for their quality and reliability.
• Guest Battery Switches: Guest offers a range of battery switches with different features, such as the Guest 1/2/Both/Off Battery Selector Switch, which allows for the selection of one or both batteries.
• BEP Marine: BEP Marine provides a variety of battery switches, including the BEP Contour Battery Switch, which has a sleek design and is suitable for various boat types.
• Attwood Marine: Attwood offers battery switches with unique features, such as the Attwood On-Off Battery Switch, which has an integrated LED indicator to show the battery status.
• Marinco Battery Switches: Marinco provides a range of battery switches with different amperage ratings to suit your specific needs.

When choosing an alternative to Perko battery switches, it is important to consider factors such as compatibility with your boat's electrical system, ease of installation, safety features, and durability. Additionally, always refer to a certified marine electrician for advice and guidance on selecting and installing the appropriate battery switch for your boat.

Perko battery switch corrosion

Perko battery switches are designed for surface mounting and can be used to turn off your battery when in storage, preventing quick battery drain. They can also serve as an emergency main disconnect switch in the event of an electrical problem. An optional key lock helps to prevent unauthorized use of the vessel.

Perko battery selector switches can be used to select a battery (out of two or more) for specific purposes, including starting engines, running accessories, or recharging. They are particularly useful for boats with multiple engines and batteries.

Perko battery switches are UL listed, ignition protected, and CE approved. This means they are safe to use in a bilge where explosive fumes may be present and can be used anywhere in the world. The standard-duty switches have a bright red polycarbonate housing for safety with a large, easy-to-turn black knob. The heavy-duty switches have red fiber-reinforced polycarbonate housing.

While Perko battery switches are generally reliable, they can still experience issues. One problem that has been reported by users is corrosion build-up on the contacts. This can cause battery charging problems. To prevent this, you can apply dielectric grease to the contact points. It is also recommended to keep the switch away from direct exposure to the elements, as this can contribute to corrosion.

If you are experiencing issues with your Perko battery switch, it is best to consult a certified marine electrician for advice and assistance. They will be able to help you troubleshoot and resolve any problems with your battery switch.

Frequently asked questions