The Sailing Brothers · video

What this video covers

A burnt-out positive cable on the back of a boat's alternator causes a total charging failure, leaving the crew without a way to charge their lead-acid starter battery or lithium house bank.1:18 After replacing the cable and lugs, the alternator fails to charge the batteries, suggesting internal damage to the stator or rectifier caused by the initial short.8:57 The crew attempts to troubleshoot by bypassing the external regulator and testing the internal one, but the alternator fails to maintain voltage under load.8:25 To maintain engine starting capability without a functioning alternator, the crew uses a manual starting handle and decompression levers on their Bukh GP20 engine.9:47 While waiting for parts and repair shops to reopen after the holidays, the crew sails 40 miles toward Great Barrier Island, relying on solar power to maintain their lithium bank and Starlink usage.20:28 A professional bench test confirms the alternator requires internal repairs, which are delayed by holiday closures.16:55

Boats in this video

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