Onboard charger for boat causing shock?

Question

I have a bass pro xps onboard charger for my boat. Its 20 amp splits amps 10\10. I mounted it to my boat, its mounted to a metal box on my boat. I plugged it in to charge battaries and they charge great. I leaned up against my boat and got shocked. Why? Its only when the charger is plugged in. help please

Answer 1

The power outlet that is feeding the charger may be wired wrong, or you have an open ground wire in the power cord feeding the charger. This can be fatal. Unplug the charger and use a plug tester to verify that the outlet is wired correctly. If it is, then verify that the ground in your extension cord is in good condition. What is happening is that the neutral side of the power in the charger is attached to the frame of the charger. When it is plugged in the frame is developing a line voltage potential and it is touching the aluminum hull of the boat. When you touch the boat, you are grounded and you complete the circuit and get bit.  

If your  outlet is not a 3 pin, grounded outlet, it should be a GFCI type for outdoor use. Good luck.  

Answer 2

Need to contact the manufacture> As it has a short and in the water it will cause extreme damage to the hull fitting and drive units> Beside shocking you> Is your boat grounded to shore power????

Answer 3

I'd bet the plug on your charger has two prongs, like mine... Which somepeople call a "floating" ground.  It's an Electrical thing, but bottom line is it's dangerous it a situation like you discribe.  At the very least you need one with a three prong plug, AND an Outlet with a ground FAULT Interupter like in kitchens and bathrooms.  If outdoors, like near the boat  It should be waterproof.  I'd wish you good luck but you've already had some so I'd just say be careful!

Answer 4

Your boat isn't gnd.ed while the charger is gnd.ed to the boat metal.