Overcharging batteries

[David Carver38]

I have a 2006 Carver 38SS with twin Volvo diesels with IPS 500 drives. Just had a haul out, bottom job, and both IPS drive removed for resealing. After completion, I completed a seatrial with the mechanics and everything appeared to be in order. My last couple of outings, the analog gauges for the battries indicated overcharging in the red, Also on my Volvo display, the voltage was reading anywhere from 14.5 to 14.9 on both engines. Is this something to be concerned about, because I have never seen this high voltage before. The mechanic had to connect the Volvo computer and reset my Drives/engines after the power was unhooked from them beause it threw a code. He said this was normal, and the code was removed/reset. Dos anyone have any knowledge or input for this?? Thanks! David Carver38SS

[Pblais]

Just because an indicator says 14.5 to 14.9 does not mean it really is that. In any case overcharging flood batteries should cook them tender and you should notice a fluid level drop from boiling. Resetting a code could be considered common. It's juts not possible for anyone here to troubleshoot your problem.

Under normal circumstances the regulator will determine the charging for a battery bank such that it will not allow a lot of current to flow to the batteries that are already fully charged. Sending more current than required would be damaging. Without really examining your boat there is not much we can say. In a fully charged state they can read high and as soon as you add even a small load they drop to normal.

Analog gauges can be calibrated to make them read correctly or they can be out of adjustment. You would need a good quality voltmeter to complete the adjustment. It should be done periodically.

[David Carver38]

thanks for the input. I am going to get a digital voltmeter and see what the actual voltage is at each battery while underway. I just don't want to burn up any electronics.....