Split Charge Relay & Fridge

[philbyford]

Hi all,

I was wondering whether anyone would have any advice or experience on the feesability of fitting a split charge relay to a Romahome?

I have a 1988 Honda Acty Dismountable Romahome, and at the moment the only way i can charge my leisure battery is via a 'normal' mains connecting charger. I know the later ones have the split charge systems fitted, but i was wondering how easy this might be to install from the cab starter battery and alternator?

Also if anyone would have any advice on the practicalities of fitting a 12volt / gas fridge into a romahome, that would be much appreciated.

Many thanks,

Phil

[yamaha]

Hi Phil - and welcome to our Forum.

Don't know your van, or where the leisure battery is located - but one of these "voltage sensing relay" kits may be the answer for you - have a look at eBay items 130193147094 and also 270208880635

These are a simple fit and forget way of doing the job - the alternator will charge the traction battery as normal, until the voltage reaches a predetermined level, then automatically switch the charge to the leisure battery.

Not the only way of doing the job - but simple, and relatively easy to fit.

Hope this is of use to you.

Mike

[daddy12340]

Hi Phil,why not use a simple relay.It has 4 connections.Pin 30,87,85 and 86.they are all marked.Connect pin 30 to the 12v out on the alternater and pin 87 to chassis.Connect pin 85 to the +ve of the car battery and pin 86 to the +ve of the leisure battery.Make sure that the _ve side of the leisure battery goes to chassis.The result of this system is when the engine is started it will charge both batteries,then when the engine is switched off the batteries will be isolated,preventing the car battery being drained when using the living area.Use 27 amp wire and it is advisable to use an in-line fuse(25amp) between pin 86 and the leisure battery as close to the relay as possible.I hope this helps.Brian.

[philbyford]

Thanks for your advice guys, i really appreciate it.

I think i might go for 'yamaha's' idea as it probably involves the least wiring. Hopefully i wont need to touch a charger too often now.

Many thanks to you both