Advice needed on split charging.

[skye740]

Thanks Mike for such a prompt comment, I'm beggining to get too grips with the in and outs now. The system I was thinking of was this --- http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Split-char...#ht_1136wt_932

so therefore am I correct in thinking that this will split charge only and not change over between the two batteries?

[mikealder]

The item you are looking at is crude in comparison to the one I offered earlier (to which I have no connections I should add) - The item in your link simply parrallels both batteries from the ignition switch and has no inteligence to switch the bus-tie contactor in and out depending upon presented load - Mike

[skye740]

Thanks you again for the advice. Now if i may pick your brains more, I have now found the same system but with a lower rating http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1208030794...#ht_1375wt_698
i.e with 180A rather than 250A as you linked apart from the obvious numerical difference, what does the difference mean in reality?

[mikealder]

You won't be able to start the car using the second battery but otherwise its the same kit to all intents - Mike

[skye740]

Ah Ok thank you. Don't suppose you know anything about Solar panels that can trickle charge too do you?

[mikealder]

Originally Posted by skye740

Don't suppose you know anything about Solar panels that can trickle charge too do you?

I did wire one in to one of the forum members C70 recently and he is reporting the car seems to be better at starting when left standing for a few days see the thread Here for more details - Mike

[DC850]

Hi,
You where wondering if your alt would be able to handle charging a second 85AH battery. If you consider when a car is attached to a caravan the same alt powers the fridge and charges the battery which could be as high as 110AH. I do this all the time with my 855 and have not had a problem yet. As I use the van of rally sites ie no hook up of up to 5 days, the battery is well used.

Ps a cheap way to wire in would be to use a split charge relay which will only charge the other battery when the engine is running. This is the system that is normally used when the caravan is attached. You just do not have the 12S Socket.

[tonyvolvo]

Hi skye. Do you tow anything whilst camping. Give me a ring
01873 853826
regards
tony bevan

[skye740]

Originally Posted by DC850

Hi,
You where wondering if your alt would be able to handle charging a second 85AH battery. If you consider when a car is attached to a caravan the same alt powers the fridge and charges the battery which could be as high as 110AH. I do this all the time with my 855 and have not had a problem yet. As I use the van of rally sites ie no hook up of up to 5 days, the battery is well used.

That's good to know. Don't want to strain the old thing too much.

Ps a cheap way to wire in would be to use a split charge relay which will only charge the other battery when the engine is running. This is the system that is normally used when the caravan is attached. You just do not have the 12S Socket.

Yes I know I've been speaking to Mikealder about them.

Thanks.

[skye740]

Originally Posted by tonyvolvo

Hi skye. Do you tow anything whilst camping. Give me a ring
01873 853826
regards
tony bevan

No I don't tow, I just fill the car up with everything required.