2001 Cobalt 226 - Factory Battery Wiring Question

[tmkilburn]

I've got a wiring question if anyone is able to assist. My 226 has dual batteries with a Perko selector switch. The#2 perko post has the #2 battery connected. The #1 perko post has the #1 battery connected as well as a 16ga red wire headed towards the stern the goes through a plastic connector about 12" from the post, and there is a 10ga wire connected headed to the stern as well. The common perko post has a 0ga wire that appears to run back and connect to the starter. So I have a 3 part question.

1) What is the 16ga wire for that would need constant 12v?
2) What is the 10ga wire for that would need constant 12v? {possibly auto-bilge)
3) If the only wire coming off the common post is the 0ga to the starter how does the rest of the boat get power? (Does the main harness wire in to the starter post instead of the common post on the perko?)

Any help is appreciated

[Bobo87]

Well just guessing here. The one aught gauge wire is the heaviest and would be for the starter. Assuming (danger Will Robison!) the 16awg wire is on the same battery as the starter it would be for the bildge pump. The remaining 10awg wire likely goes to a bus bar to power all of your accessories (lights, radio, blower, etc.) from the second battery.

If you can post some pictures I am sure the group can give you more details.

[nolaboater99]

Sounds to me like bobo is right on the money.