Abstract: A snowmobile electrical system having a battery conservation circuit. The system is designed to conserve battery power after deactivation of the engine using the kill switch, even if the key switch is left on. Battery power is normally consumed by continued connection of the microprocessor-based electronic engine control unit (ECU) to the battery after kill switch activation. To prevent battery consumption, the ECU monitors the electrical output of the ignition system at a position within the system wherein the output is dependent on engine speed. If the output drops to a specified level, a signal generator in the ECU is activated. Signals from the signal generator are directed to a solid state switching system which disconnects the battery from the ECU. As a result, battery consumption is controlled.

Abstract: A snowmobile electrical system having a battery conservation circuit. The system is designed to conserve battery power after deactivation of the engine using the kill switch, even if the key switch is left on. Battery power is normally consumed by continued connection of the microprocessor-based electronic engine control unit (ECU) to the battery after kill switch activation. To prevent battery consumption, the ECU monitors the electrical output of the ignition system at a position within the system wherein the output is dependent on engine speed. If the output drops to a specified level, a signal generator in the ECU is activated. Signals from the signal generator are directed to a solid state switching system which disconnects the battery from the ECU. As a result, battery consumption is controlled.