24V Cruiser import

Newer Engels run on 24 v

You can buy a 24-12v converter See Supercheap etc Depends on the current rating

Geoff,
even as a 24V system, this will consist of two 12V batteries in series. Wire in direct lines to the pos and neg of one battery only and you have the 12V you are looking for. As for the Engel, if it can take 24V as well as 12V, run it from 24V as it will run more effeciently, ie draw less current.

Cheers,

Dion.

Geoff, Dick Smith and jaycar have 24 - 12V converters, too. Jaycar have at least 3 types:
AA-0266 3amp......$26.95
MP-3062 8 amp.......$78.95
MP-3067 25amp.....$179.00

The other suggestions might be cheaper, and more versatile, hook into one 12v battery, into terminal/fuse block, via a relay to switch off "toys" with ign. Each toy would have its own fuse in an easy to access point under bonnet. Good point about Engel on 24v, more efficient.

Won't it have a pretty good radio in it? Suppose mate wants the discs too. Hooroo...

Plus any frig with a Danfoss compressor will run 24volt too- be carefull if running on one of the two batteries as it will run one down which willnot recharge properly
I hope he's getting it cheap- as it will be a real tin of worms anytime he has electrical probs.(no parts etc.)

Don't take 12V from one of the batteries, it ends up stuffing the battery.
Do it once and do it right, use a 24 to 12v power supply, and buy the biggest available, that way you are not limited in the future.

If you doubt this advice ask anyone with a 24v boat.

Regards