Perko Alternator Field Disconnect Battery Switch 8503DP
- Brand:
- Perko
- Part no:
- 8503DP
Image: Marine Parts Source
Where to buy
Specifications
- Continuous rating
- 250 A
- Intermittent rating
- 360 A
- Alternator field disconnect
- Yes
- Ignition protection
- Ignition protected
Manuals
- Installation instructions (PDF)it.perko.com
The Perko 8503DP is a standard alternator field disconnect battery switch. It is rated at 250 amps continuous and 360 amps intermittent, and it is intended for systems under 50 volts. If the switch is accidentally turned to OFF while the engine runs, the field disconnect prevents alternator damage. The design protects the copper contacts and brass terminals, and the switch is ignition protected. It is 5-1/4 inches across and 2-5/8 inches deep.
Our take
The 8503DP's alternator field disconnect protects the alternator if the switch is accidentally turned to OFF with the engine running. It is rated 250 amps continuous and 360 intermittent, so check that against your engine's starting load.
From our buying guide
Perko says its selector switches can be switched between 1, ALL and 2 with the engine running, and that they let you put batteries in parallel for emergency starting. Battle Born advises against that connection with its LiFePO4 batteries.
Check before you buy:
- Its continuous and 5-minute ratings suit your system. Perko rates its medium-duty 8501 at 250 A continuous.
- It has an alternator field disconnect if you need one. Perko says its AFD models protect non-unitized alternators if the switch is turned OFF with the engine running.
- If it's going in a gasoline engine space, the maker lists it as ignition protected.