I am in the process of replacing my four batteries. My boat does not have any battery management switches whatsoever (not even an on/off switch). After reading a little about batteries in the West Marine catalogue I am considering using an 1,2,both, and off switch to manage my batteries. I thought I will purchase two starting batteries and configure them to the 1 position, and two deep cell AGM batteries and aligning them to the 2 position. I have a couple questions which some of you may be able to help with...
1. Is it a no-no to mix the two types of batteries (different charging characteristics) in the same bank? They would both be charging and discharging when the switch is in the both position.
2. Does the AD-41 alternator/generator provide enough juice to charge 4 batteries while running in the both configuration?
3. Are any of you using a auto charging relay or combiner on your boat?