S4, Ep43 Installing Solar Power on a 1988 Liveaboard Sailboat — Part 1
November 9, 2025 · 20 min · 275 views · San Diego, United States
What this video covers
The crew of *Into the Mystic*, a 1988 sailboat, upgrades its electrical system while simultaneously addressing unexpected plumbing failures in the bilge. The solar power project centers on a 460-amp-hour Epoch lithium battery, which requires specific Bluetooth configuration via a blue port connection to communicate with the Victron ecosystem.2:12 The planned electrical overhaul includes installing a Victron Lynx Shunt 1000, a Lynx Distributor, a MultiPlus 12V/3000 inverter/charger, and three MPPT charge controllers to manage 1,200 watts of solar input.7:30 While removing old wiring, the crew discovers significant water accumulation in the bilge caused by a compromised sump box and degraded plumbing hoses.12:38 This discovery forces a temporary halt to the electrical work to replace hoses, T-fittings, and one-way valves.15:52 The project also involves replacing the alternator with a 120-amp Balmar unit featuring a remote regulator to resolve intermittent starting issues.19:34 The crew ultimately replaces aging factory wiring and corroded connections to modernize the boat's DC and AC systems before a planned departure from San Diego.18:24
More from Sailing Into the Mystic
From Sailing Into the Mystic — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analyzed video.
The Sailing Directory Newsletter
One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.