charging gel batteries from alternator

[jaygee]

Hi, thinking of changing my hab flooded batteries to gel, no problem there, i can alter my EBL 99 to gel setting as with the solar control.
Question is would my alternator on a 2004 ducato be compatible to charge the gels when driving?
Thanks
Tony

 

[Lenny HB]

Yes, although not ideal it is what all Motorhomes with gel hab batteries do. I've had Motorhomes with Gels since 2008 never had any problems.

 

[Figaro]

I have a 2003 2.8 jtd with EBL 99 and mine charges 2 gels. I just fitted a victron B2B to improve the leisure battery charging a bit further.

 

[jaygee]

That's pretty much what i thought Lenny HB, my only concerns are that how susceptible gels are to overcharging but
i will check ALL charge rates before install, battery technology and build quality has moved on at quite a pace and there is a lot of conflicting information out there even from the manufactures.

 

[two]

A better solution might be to insert a B2B.

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[Lenny HB]

A better solution might be to insert a B2B.

Yes that will give the charging profile.

 

[Richard n Ann]

A better solution might be to insert a B2B.

I've thought about that but they would charge at way over C5 rate. Don't think gels like being charged and discharged aggressively.

 

[Lenny HB]

I've thought about that but they would charge at way over C5 rate. Don't think gels like being charged and discharged aggressively.

Depending on the size B2B you fit, the correct size it will be better for them as Gels have a low internal resistance when flat, I've clocked 45 amps from the standard split charge setup.

 

[Revolvor]

I've thought about that but they would charge at way over C5 rate. Don't think gels like being charged and discharged aggressively.

My CTEK B2B only charges at 20 amps, but at least it provides the correct charging profile.

 

[autorouter]

I've thought about that but they would charge at way over C5 rate. Don't think gels like being charged and discharged aggressively.

Some B2Bs (eg Sterling) have an option for half power, so 40A B2B can be set to 20A. Useful for example if you only have one battery, but might get a second one in the future.