Generator auto start - Do I need to measure voltage at batteries?

[belfert]

I am installing a Magnum auto start.  Do I need to measure the voltage right at the batteries?  It will be much easier for me to mount the auto star module  at the same place as the control panel for the generator which is about 15 feet from the batteries.

[bevans6]

The issue is voltage drop, so if there is nothing but the module on the wires that you use there should be no problem.  The module will probably not draw any current to speak of, so there should be no voltage drop and it should get a true reading. 

Brian

[belfert]

My thought is to tap into the line going to my water pump since it goes right past where I will install the auto start.  If voltage drop is an issue I can just adjust the voltage at which the generator starts.  All of my wire is packed away right now so I can't run a new line to the batteries.

[luvrbus]

I see those mounted 30 ft from the batteries in some buses on the inside of the bus to protect the unit from the heat then the remote may be on the opposite end of the bus they don't really care as long as it can read the 11.5 low voltage and that is adjustable

[wg4t50]

My setup using 4 Gel 8D batteries, Xantrax 2500 watt pure sine wave inverter that includes a 4 step 100 amp smart charger that limits max voltage tp 14.2 volts, all being fed by the auto start box that starts genset when the nattery voltage drops to 12.2 volts, runs for 3.5 hours, about 1.25 gal diesel fuel.
That charge lasts about 24 hrs in normal mode or 36 hrs in econo mode.
All time & voltage settings are adjustable.
Dave M

[belfert]

It looks like I can just tap whatever 24 volt source I want to then.  This will make it a little easier to install.

[belfert]

I found the wiring diagram from Magnum for my generator and it appears the auto start can only monitor 12 volts in order to work with my generator.  Not a big deal as I have a 12 volt tap off of my battery bank.