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manual.jpg (5400 bytes)
[PART 5]
[NOTE: This electronic manual is a verbatim copy of the printed manual included with Catalina 250 #384]

Batteries

Your electrical system is powered by a marine grade 12 volt deep cycle, 90 amp hour battery. Attention should be given to maintaining the proper level of distilled water. Do not overfill.

The batteries are provided with a tie down to prevent tipping over at extreme angles of heel. Be sure these tie downs are fastened securely.

With proper care, the battery installed in your Catalina 250 will provide long and satisfactory service. Proper care is not difficult, it a few basic points are kept in mind.

You battery should be examined periodically for any cracks or breaks in the case or cover, and any cracks in the sealing compound. If there is any damage, the battery should be repaired at once.

WARNING:
The electrolyte in a battery is a solution of sulfuric acid. If any should enter the eyes, rinse immediately with large amounts of fresh water and seek medical attention. Electrolyte spilled on skin should be rinsed well with fresh water also. Even a small amount of electrolyte spilled on clothing will destroy the clothing.

ELECTROLYTE LEVEL:
The electrolyte level in a battery should never be allowed to fall low enough to expose the plates. This not only results in a loss of battery capacity while the battery is low, but will cause hardening of the active material on the battery plates. This will result in a permanent loss of battery capacity.

CAUTION!
Use only pure distilled water to replenish electrolyte levels. The water from many city water supply systems is unsatisfactory for battery use.

CHARGING THE BATTERY:
Before adding water, a hydrometer reading of the battery should be taken. If the reading shows the battery to above 1.225 specific gravity, the battery has a sufficient charge. If the reading is below 1.225, the battery should be removed for bench charge.

IMPORTANT:
Do not leave your batteries on charge for more than forty-eight (48) hours. If there is not rise in voltage or specific gravity in a period of two hours, further charging is useless and may damage the battery beyond repair.

Once charged, the battery should have a specific gravity of at least 1.260. If this cannot be reached, the battery should be inspected by a battery supplier. The batteries should be checked often to ensure that they do not run down. Check that all battery cells keep an even fluid level and that the fluid is about 3/8" above the top of the separators.

If one or two cells have lower fluid levels, it is a good indicator that something is wrong with the battery, and it should be checked.

DISCHARGED STATE:
Leaving a battery in a discharged state for any length of time can also result in a permanent loss of capacity for the battery. Since it will freeze at relatively low temperatures, leaving it in the cold can destroy the battery.

CLEAN CONNECTORS:
Keep the battery connections clean and tight. A cupful of strong baking soda solution and a toothbrush will clean corrosion from the terminals and neutralize any spilled acid. (Do not allow any of the solution to enter the battery cells). A coating of petroleum jelly on the battery terminals will inhibit corrosion.

D.C. 12 Volt Electrical System

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:
The Catalina 250 is equipped with a standard 12 volt DC system. The wiring is run to prevent chaffing or contact with water, where possible, and is supported as needed. We recommend that you check all the connections at least once a year for corrosion, loose fittings, etc.

DC - 12 VOLT SYSTEM:
The DC system is powered by one deep cycle battery located aft of the aft berth. The DC electrical system is controlled by a main breaker panel with switches for running lights, interior lights and accessories. The interior lights are also controlled by individual switches on the lights themselves.

Wiring Diagram

Navigation Lights

Navigation lights should be used in accordance with the rules and regulations of the waters in which you intend to sail.

Generally, navigation lights should be used from dusk to dawn in all weather conditions. It is advisable to use the navigation lights any time visibility is poor.

Your Catalina 250 is equipped with the following navigation lights:

Red and Green 112.5° combination lights mounted on the bow pulpit.
White 135° stern light mounted on the stern.
White 225° steaming light mounted on the mast.
White 360° anchor light mounted on the masthead.

(A) and (B) are wired to the bow light switch on the panel. (C) is wired to the steaming light switch, and (D) is wired to the anchor light switch.

When underway by sail, the bow light and stern light must be used (A and B). When underway by power, the steaming light (C), bow light and stern light must be on. At anchor, the anchor light (D) should be on.

Preventive Maintenance

This consists of periodic inspection and protection against any damage created by the elements. Electrical systems are adversely affected by moisture and a salt-air environment.

The system can be protected by the application of aerosol sprays such as WD-40 or CRC. All wire harnesses and connections should be checked periodically to ensure that fastenings are secured and that everything is clean with no sign of damage or corrosion. It is extremely important that all connections be kept clean.

WARNING: Do not perform any maintenance or repair on a live circuit. Do not turn the main DC switch off while the engine is running. This could cause damage to the alternator.

Manual Bilge Pump

The manual bilge pump is located in the port cockpit coaming. Insert the handle through the watertight fitting in the cockpit to operate the pump. The pump intake hose (1" inside diameter is in the bilge sump under the aft berth on the centerline.

Accommodation Plan

Deck Plan

"In a powerboat, you get there in a hurry . . .
in a sailboat, you are already there."