Adding charger where no charger has gone before

Jabba · 03-08-2003, 07:18 AM

Ok, seeing the posts on Univolt, Intellivolt etc. I have a similar but different problem. I'm new to this and am not versed in the electrical transfer arts, our '55 has 110V and a 12V system, completely seperate from one another. There is no means of charging the battery while plugged in to shore power other than removing the battery box cover and attaching a normal charger (which I found 2 of in the trailer). What would be the recommended means (and type) of installing a battery charger/maintainer?

Silvertwinkie · 03-08-2003, 07:24 AM

Not sure about how the '55 works, but I gotta believe that there is something a bit easier (not that connecting a charger is hard).

John HD might have a few suggestions.

Does you unit charge off the car when connected. Just a question for my personal knowledge about the older units with your type of electrical systems.

Regards,

Eric

**john hd** · 03-08-2003, 07:46 AM

jason

the first thing you would need to decide is where to put a univolt or intellipower unit.

as close to the batteries would be best.

then getting a 120v supply would be next.

after those problems are addressed, you will need to make a 12volt buss. that will be needed to provide fuse protection.

john

Jabba · 03-08-2003, 08:36 AM

Yes, the battery will take a charge from the tow vehicle. Next, what's a buss? Please forgive my ignorance. There is some sort of terminal block seperate from the fuse block on the 12V end of things. The battery is in a box hanging from the front of the trailer over the tongue. The 12V fuse block and all the connections related are under the front couch along with the water pump and water tank. Which is accessed by removing the drawers or pulling the couch apart (fun). Does the chrge line run directly to the battery or what? John, I've been told a Digital camera is on the way for my upcoming birthday, so I'll be able to start snapping some pictures like you asked.

I'd be concerned with the amount of noise (if any from the charger) and I've heard that some of the chargers have to mounted vertically?

**john hd** · 03-08-2003, 09:39 AM

jason

a buss i just a common bar that allows you to connect all your leads in one convienent spot.

you very well may have one now, so adding one may not be needed.

the charge lines from your tow vehicle or a future univolt would go right to the "buss" or fuse block.

when is your b day? pictures will help alot!

under your couch would be an excellent spot for your charger/univolt, as it is close to the battery.

as for the sound, you can always turn it off before you turn in for the night.

john