Lighting for Tohatsu 30hp outboard

[burger61]

hi all,

I have a 2003 30hp Tohatsu outboard (same as Mercury Light version) and I wish to charge a battery off the motor to run lights, sounder etc.
The paperwork on my outboard shows it has a 12v 80w 6.7a fitted that can be used for lighting (on the 6hp thru 9 hp the manual advises it is optional).
The question I wish to ask is: I have been told I must fit a rectifier to the outboard (approx $150.00) so I can charge my battery off the motor..Is this correct....Please help...I do notice under the cowell it looks like it has connectors there to attach 2 leads.

[landy1]

Good topic mine has the same leads (25hp,c3) if anyone knows anything i would be interested aswell
cheers
Michael

[aido]

yeah, the two leads are carrying a.c. current, good for lighting,
useless for charging batteries, small outputs can get by using just
a rectifier. you could homebrew one for about 6 bucks, dick smith
20amp bridge rectifier.. it can charge batteries and power d.c.
accessories. some might also work on plain a.c., but i wouldn't try it.
ensure the load is taken from the battery +ve post.
bigger output lighting coils would be better using a rectifier and voltage
regulator. maybe 10 bucks d.s. but $150 sounds what a ready built unit
might be worth. unregulated high outputs could maybe overcharge a small
battery i guess ??? .
in your case, i'd try the $5 dick smith option.
here's a quick drawing explains better.
http://members.ozemail.com.au/~dessaix/rectify.jpg

[xxxxhornet]

Gents,

I have found that there isnt enough output to charge the battery. I had mine die completely after 10 mths, and got a new one on warranty, but now trickle charge every time I've had the boat in the garage for a few weeks, just to keep the life in it.

[Paul]

The genuine rectifier is approx $140. We also sell an aftermarket 25 amp rectifier for $12. Takes about 5 minutes to fit, and uses the existing charge coil, etc.
Most customers take the $12 option.
Regards, Paul

[burger61]

thanks guys for all your replies and great ideas....Paul where do i need to go to get the rectifier fitted

[Torres Guy]

:) Paul, where can I get one of thes $12.00 RECTIFIERS? please.. sis the a web site? I been looking for one for ages

thanks

[BM]

Go to Dick Smith Torres Guy, the 35Amp bridge rectifier is $4.95 and utilises spade terminals.

Cheers