Zamp vs. Battery Tender

[wbrisett]

I have a 15W Battery Tender solar panel that I used on our 23D to keep the batteries topped up. We just this weekend picked up our 27FB, it comes prewired with the Zamp solar connector (same as what Battery Tender uses). Anybody here use something other than the Zamp panel to maintain their batteries? As long as the wiring is correct, I don't see an issue (I do have to check that. I've read that Zamp wires things differently than other solar manufacturers).

-Wayne

[rperrym]

I was wondering which Battery Tender model comes with Zamp solar connectors? The ones I have seen just have alligator clips.

Thanks,

Rick

[alano]

The Zamp solar connector is wired directly to the battery, so you can plug your Battery Tender in safely.

[JoeHTP]

Zamp connectors are standard SAE connectors, but they wire them the opposite of normal. In order for it to work with other brands, you have to reverse the wires at the battery. Move the wire connected to negative to the positive pole and positive to negative. I use my Renogy 200 watt solar panel that way and it works just fine.

[wbrisett]

I have read that about the Zamp which is why I asked. I bought one of the 15W Battery Tender solar panels and it has the same connector, so I'll change the cabling. Thanks!

I'm excited... We'll take the 27FB out for the first time on Sunday. We haven't told the folks we're camping with. We're going to see how long it takes them to realize that we're in a different Airstream.

[wbrisett]

Originally Posted by rperrym

I was wondering which Battery Tender model comes with Zamp solar connectors? The ones I have seen just have alligator clips.

Thanks,

Rick

http://www.adventurerv.net/battery-t...source=Froogle

If you look at the enlarged photo on this site, you'll see the same connector. you can use the clips if you want, but you have to plug those into the connector.

[rperrym]

Thanks for the information. I misunderstood the original poster's comment. I thought we were talking about the connections on a 110 volt Battery Tender battery charger that would connect to the Zamp connection on my Airstream. Wasn't thinking about a Battery Tender solar charger.

Rick

[JoeHTP]

In addition to the Renogy Solar panel, I also have a Battery Minder that has an SAE plug. Once I reversed the Zamp cables, I plug it into the Zamp connector to maintain the batteries.