Freedom 285 Battery Charger and Autopilot

[FLBoater21]

I have a new to me Freedom 285 and looking to add autopilot and a battery charger for the dock.

With the current Garmin display, I was thinking of the Garmin autopilot reactor. Anyone with experience installing this unit and can offer some tips? Where did you place the pump?

Adding a battery charger looks easier to put in place. Any recommended brands? It appears a charging port is pretty easy to add but where did you place it?

Any recommendations or best practices for cutting through the fiberglass or mounting these items? Lots of YouTube videos out there but they usually don't get into the details of concerns with drilling or mounting.

Thanks!

 

[drbatts]

I have and recommend the garmin reactor with smart pump. I have had mine for 3 seasons and it works great in all conditions. Garmin recommends installing the pump close to the battery. With twin engines if you can get the pump close to where the hydro lines T-off that will also be helpful for the install. Not sure what the rear compartment layout is on a 285 or what is under the rear fish box, but that would be a good place to start. You can also call around to local grady dealers to see where they typically install the components. I did this before installing mine. Also start unscrewing and removing panels to help find a suitable location.

 

[HMBJack]

ProMariner makes a good 3 stage charger.

I have been happy with mine. Be sure to get the wiring and fuse set-up right.
Best to "over gauge" the wiring on any charger installation. If it specs for 12G, go with 10G.

 

[DennisG01]

Can't help with the AP.

I'm a big fan of the ProMariner ProNautic line - I have tons of experience with them being used in another boat line we carry - so I have literally seen hundreds of these over the years and they are very reliable and have excellent charging profiles - including desulphation. This line may be a bit overkill for your situation as they are also ignition protected and allowed to be installed in an engine bay that has a gas engine... but it certainly can't hurt, either!

Do you have (3) batteries? The 3 bank 30 amp version would be perfect... although the 20 amp would be fine, too.

Generally, you want to install the charger close to the batteries - but not directly over the batteries due to battery outgassing. You COULD hook up the charger to the battery leads at your battery switches, as well.

The directions that come with the charger go into more detail regarding installation. Just follow their directions and you'll be good.

 

[Hookup1]

Install a Pro Mariner ProSport 20 Triple. The later models have improved fuse holders which were a problem with past modes. Don't need 3-banks? Get it anyway! Units ship with a good battery charging harness too.