Univolt replacement now or later, and does solar affect which charge controller?

[mlepisto]

Hi,

I'm also looking to replace the univolt in my '71 soon. It works, but I'm told the output voltage is a bit low at 10v.

I'm not one for electrics, so pardon me if these are really basic questions. It seems that the univolt is only there (at least in my model) for shore power, and everything else is 12v.

So other than wanting to run a lot of stuff when plugged in to the grid, and for the speed of charging it wouldn't make much difference in the size of charge controller. Is that close, or am I way off base?

I will also be looking to add a couple extra batteries, and solar panels in the near future so I'm hesitant on changing just the univolt now in case I get the wrong charge controller and waste the $. I haven't yet decided how many batteries or panels. Will a lower or higher amp charge controller have any side effects other than speed of charging?

I'm also wondering would it make sense to get a charge controller that can handle multiple inputs - both shore power and solar, or are they cost prohibitive or otherwise not worth it or just not made? I know they make charge controllers for solar/wind but maybe not 110v also?

What are the thoughts on a combo charger/inverter unit? They seem really expensive, and not really worth it but at the same time very convenient.

Thanks!
Mika