Basic electrics (1 Viewer)

Jul 17, 2014
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Hi everyone, this is my first post. Excuse woeful ignorance. We've got a 1990 Mercedes 308 campervan. I've no idea how the electrics work. The van's fitted with a KT12 Power Supply Battery Charger. I've noticed that the orange power switch is in the off position. What exactly is the function of this bit of kit? Does it charge up the leisure battery when the engine is on? Should it be left on or just switched on when the van is being used?
Many thanks
 

scotjimland

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Jul 25, 2007
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The KT 12 is a simple battery charger, from the early 90s.. it charges the leisure battery when you are on electric hook up.. the orange switch is the on/off 230v switch

it can be safely left on.. it has no function whist you are driving ..

battery charging whilst driving comes from the van alternator via a relay .

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Last edited:
OP
OP
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Jul 17, 2014
12
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Funster No
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I'm a newbie
Thank you for a lovely clear helpful reply.
 
OP
OP
stylites
Jul 17, 2014
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I'm a newbie
And thanks for your welcome StitchesnFluff!

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OP
OP
stylites
Jul 17, 2014
12
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I'm a newbie
What lovely people you all are! How come I've missed out all this time?
 

pappajohn

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In addition to scotjimlands useful post........if you have the van on mains hookup at home its advisable to turn off the charger and only turn on for a few hours every week or two to keep the battery topped up when not in use.
It sounds like the charger is a constant current charger and left on indefinitely will overcharge your battery.
Obviously, when in use leave it on constantly.

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scotjimland

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Jul 25, 2007
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In addition to scotjimlands useful post........if you have the van on mains hookup at home its advisable to turn off the charger and only turn on for a few hours every week or two to keep the battery topped up when not in use.
It sounds like the charger is a constant current charger and left on indefinitely will overcharge your battery.
Obviously, when in use leave it on constantly.

yes.. good point John.. I neglected to say that..

.. the KT 12 isn't a 'smart' charger..
 

scotjimland

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Jul 25, 2007
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So not leave the van permanently hooked up at home?

If your van has a modern multistage charger yes, you can.. it will not boil the battery(s) ..
The float charge in the third stage maintains the battery at full charge.

In saying that, I only put mine on EHU for a couple of days per month .. but I also have solar panels that keep it topped up..

Just noticed you have a Hymer.. so no problems..
 
Oct 18, 2014
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If your van has a modern multistage charger yes, you can.. it will not boil the battery(s) ..
The float charge in the third stage maintains the battery at full charge.

In saying that, I only put mine on EHU for a couple of days per month .. but I also have solar panels that keep it topped up..

Just noticed you have a Hymer.. so no problems..
Good, thanks

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OP
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Jul 17, 2014
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I'm a newbie
You lot are so helpful and friendly, it's quite moving!

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Rob and Val

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Oct 17, 2010
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Hi.gif
and a warm welcome from us. Looking at your avatar, your Mercedes looks much younger than 26 years old. What a beauty.
 

CWH

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Hello and welcome to the Fun
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OP
OP
stylites
Jul 17, 2014
12
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Funster No
32,450
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I'm a newbie
Thank you all, and thanks Val and Rob for your very kind remarks about our van. She is showing her age when you get close up but the bed is very comfy, she's warm and dry, and she made it as far as Barcelona last year, albeit slowly! If we can nurse her through the banger stage I'm hoping that she'll end up a classic.
 
May 21, 2008
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What lovely people you all are! How come I've missed out all this time?
Because you don't take friendly (and experienced) advice from neighbours!! Welcome - finally!!!
(@Jim, I should be on commission!)
 
OP
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Jul 17, 2014
12
3
Funster No
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Van conversion
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I'm a newbie
Ah Viennese! What can I say? Better late than never and of course you were right. Great talking to you this morning and thanks for the helpful information.

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