split charge relay help fiat ducato.

[patrick shipp]

Hi can someone please help me with my van conversion on a fiat ducato maxi 2012 2.3

I have installed the battery and want to use a split charge relay for the main battery to charge it on the move. Do i connect it to the battery under the cab or under the bonnet.

Is it also possible to use a split charge relay and a solar panel to charge the same battery.

thanks

 

[dave newell]

On a 2012 ducato there is no battery under the bonnet, the engine battery is under the passengers side cab floor.

D.

 

[chatteris]

I connected in the battery compartment under cab floor

 

[autorouter]

Is it also possible to use a split charge relay and a solar panel to charge the same battery.

Yes, it's the normal way to do it. The alternator and solar controller have electronic one-way valves (diodes) that stop the charge going the wrong way.

A simple solar controller only charges one battery, ie the leisure battery. The split charge relay disconnects the leisure battery from the starter battery when the engine is not running.

You can get solar controllers that will charge the leisure battery and also trickle charge the starter battery.

 

[pappajohn]

A few assumptions above.
You don't say what kind of split charge.... A simple 30amp relay or an all singing & dancing electronic unit.

30amp relay is basic and easiest and only a few quid.
B2B charger is the best option but quite a few quid.

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[Wagoneer]

This article by Clive Mott (MMM tech guy) may help:

http://www.motts.org/SPLIT CHARGING SYSTEM.htm

The solar can be connected directly to the hab battery via solar regulator.

A very simple solution to split charging is shown under "bridging fuse" but obviously needs manual intervention.