Dual <span class="highlight">battery</span>

Submitted: Thursday, Nov 03, 2005 at 21:15

ThreadID: 27800 Views:2867 Replies:2 FollowUps:3

This Thread has been Archived

Grinch

Hi
I would like to be able to charge either one or two lead acid batteries (I chose this as they are cheap) that will be mounted inside the boot (vented) of my caravan. The caravan manufacturer has provided a pair of cables that go from the boot to an Anderson on the drawer bar which would connect to the car.
I was recently told that having a manual switch is a cheap reliable way of charging an auxillery battery or two. Obviously I become the dual battery management system.
Would anyone have some information on the best way to wire this and what type of switch I would use. I am handy and have some knowledge on electrics. I have done some 12v wiring but not around an engine bay of a car.
My tow vehicle is a 2003 Prado Auto.
My main power requirements are 12v fluro's and car radio mounted in the van. I am currently wiring an ammeter and volt meter in the van so I can monitor usage whilst free camping.
Also I would love some information on charging whilst seperated from car and 240V. Would a small portable solar panel (250ma) from Jaycar suffice for this.
Thanks in advance
Anthony

Back Expand Un-Read 0 Moderator Share

Reply By: ACDC - Thursday, Nov 03, 2005 at 21:26

Thursday, Nov 03, 2005 at 21:26

Why not just fit a redarc smart solenoid easy done and cheap fit and forget!
Solar panels 250ma will do nothing you would need approx 3-4 amp panel.

AnswerID: 137668

Follow Up By: Grinch - Thursday, Nov 03, 2005 at 21:32

Thursday, Nov 03, 2005 at 21:32

Hi
thanks for the quick response, any idea on price and how do they work? Also are they easy to wire with a battery not in the car?
regards
Anthony

FollowupID: 391336

Follow Up By: ACDC - Thursday, Nov 03, 2005 at 21:41

Thursday, Nov 03, 2005 at 21:41

The sale for approx $150.00
Electronically controlled solenoid, when the voltage rises above 13.5 solenoid is activated and when voltage drops below 12.6 the solenoid disconnects.
Simple connections, main battery to solenoid post and in your case anderson plug to other solenoid post with a jumbo inline fuse holder with approx 80amp fuse.

FollowupID: 391337

Reply By: 4145derek - Saturday, Nov 05, 2005 at 16:35

Saturday, Nov 05, 2005 at 16:35

I use Bi-80 controllers. They are fully automatic and very reliable they have built in surge protection and a 1 way diode to stop you frying the wiring when cranking your engine. If the car battery is low on charge it will try start off the van and fry the wiring ! You also need to make sure the wire you use is at least 50 amp and always use anderson plugs. visit ABR for a few tips.

AnswerID: 137933