Posted: Thu May 28, 2009 7:50 am Post subject: Jumping a 24-Volt System
Hi, All,
I've recently acquired an M38A1, my first, and it has the stock 24-Volt system. I never really thought about it until now, but, what's the procedure for jumping the system if the batteries drain, especially, if you're somewhere where there is only a normal 12-volt car available? What do you guys do to prepare for this emergency? Thanks!
Joined: Apr 14, 2005 Posts: 196 Location: Van Buren, Arkansas
Posted: Thu May 28, 2009 7:59 am Post subject:
I'm also interested in this question. Usually when
I'm going to be on an extended journey, I make sure
that both batteries are charged and within specs, AND
take the battery charger and a 50 foot (30 metre)
extension cord with me in case there's electric service
available where I'm going. Otherwise, have a tow rope
on board and a friend's number to call.
You should have a 24 volt charger. They are not very expensive and beat the heck out of playing the "seperate the batteries for charging" game. It is also better to charge them as a pair. They must always be paired when replacing. The reason for the pairing is when two batteries are connected in series and their potential is not exactly the same they will alternately discharge each other over a long period of time.
Periodically check your battery for a drain. Disconnect the ground lead from the right battery on the A1 and the front battery on the M38. Connect a 24 volt test lamp between the negative terminal and the cable you just removed. If it glows you have current draining somewhere. To troubleshoot you disconnect one circuit at a time until the lamp goes out.
Many folks install a battery disconnect switch just in case.
As for jumping there is no way unless you pair two 12 volt batteries next to the jeep in series and then use them to jump your pair.
If you have the slave connector installed you should carry a cable that fits it to get a jump from a buddy.
Tow ropes aren't realy necessary. I have always been able to push mine by hand, jump in, pop the clutch in 2nd and start right up. For the YS carb jeeps it helps to have the dash mounted primer when doing this. _________________ Wes K
45 MB, 51 M38, 54 M37, 66 M101A1, 60 CJ5, 76 DJ5D, 47Bantam T3-C & 5? M100
Google charger, battery 24 volt. There are a dozen or more suppliers that are much cheaper than your local Napa. You are only looking for a 5 or 10 amp unit. Remember more volts = less amps. If you are a busy person and must leave the charger unattended then try to get an automatic that tapers the charge rate. _________________ Wes K
45 MB, 51 M38, 54 M37, 66 M101A1, 60 CJ5, 76 DJ5D, 47Bantam T3-C & 5? M100
Wes,if using a 24 volt charger and one of the batteries is much more discharged than the other will they both be fully charged when the charging is done? When charging with the generator doesn't the lesser charged battery determine when the generator stops charging?
That would only happen when one of the batteries is bad or you have been running a 12 volt accessory hooked up to only one of the batteries. It is easy to determine if that situation exists. Just observe the celss to see if both batteries start gassing about the same time and amount. _________________ Wes K
45 MB, 51 M38, 54 M37, 66 M101A1, 60 CJ5, 76 DJ5D, 47Bantam T3-C & 5? M100
As an a-side I would suggest always wearing goggles when playing with 24volts. I accidently earthed a 24 volt terminal and the lead terminal exploded in a bullit of molton lead, my fault, but easily done.
My friend accquired a damaged M Series (NATO) jump leads and kept the plug fitting on one end but fitted big croc clamps on the other so he could jump off civvy trucks and proper 4x4s (no offence, that's a dig at Land Rover) with 24volt systems.
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