I Buy an AGM Deep Cycle - What Charging Options?

Submitted: Saturday, Aug 23, 2008 at 20:10

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Holden4th

I've decided that a second battery is a good idea but because of the position it would be placed in my NP, I've decided that a removable AGM would be best. However, this leaves me with options about charging the battery on the move. I can get a 100ah Fullriver for about $300 bucks but how do I set up a system to charge it while driving? Do I need to connect it to my alternator or can I use the cigar plug? How long can I drive before it charges fully? If I run my Waeco FF40 on refrigeration only, how long will the battery last before cutout?

I currently have a Waeco RAPS 36ah battery (virtually new) but would be happy to sell it to get more refirgeration power. I also noticed that it didn't even get close to fully recharging it off the cigar plug which suggests that I might have to access the alternator direct.

All advice happily accepted.

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Reply By: Member - Bucky (VIC) - Sunday, Aug 24, 2008 at 03:40

Sunday, Aug 24, 2008 at 03:40

Holden4th

Try this article from Derrik at Sidewinder.com, who advertises on this forum

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Cheers
Bucky

AnswerID: 321919

Reply By: Member - Peter J (NSW) - Sunday, Aug 24, 2008 at 08:32

Sunday, Aug 24, 2008 at 08:32

I would use a standard battery separator and run a heavy duty cable to your secondary battery location, connect with an anderson plug and you will get all the power you need. A deep cycle battery is obviously preferable for any long term drawdown. I am using an Optima which they say charges very quickly (1 hour), haven't totally tested it yet. The Optima also has high CCA's so can be used as a back up for starting as well. I am using a Pirana battery separator. Good luck.

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AnswerID: 321930

Reply By: Member - Phil G (SA) - Sunday, Aug 24, 2008 at 08:46

Sunday, Aug 24, 2008 at 08:46

Check the manufacturers specs on the FullRiver - I think its like my Remco AGM - you need to limit charging to no more than 30amps if you want the battery to last. Modern alternators can supply too much current to these cheaper AGMs.

My AGM lives inside the canopy, where its cool. I have an electronic isolator under the bonnet, and 8Gauge cabling to the battery. I deliberately used this size cable so there would be some voltage drop, and the voltage drop would limit the current to no more than 30 amps. From my measurements to date, this appears to work fine - a simple way of restricting current. It doesn't hurt to hit it with a 3-stage charger when its not getting used at home.

You could also go to the more complex option of fitting an Arrid Twin Charge, that would restrict current to 20amps, but would raise charging voltage to 14.4V.

AnswerID: 321932