Split Charge Relay

[grumpyengraver]

Hi,
I have a VW T4 Transporter Camper Conversion, does anyboby know how I can tell if my split charge system is working? I haven't had it long and have a 40watt Solar Panel fitted but I not sure if the charger is working when the engine is running.
Hope everyone has a nice Xmas.

Tony

:idea-007::help:

 

[rickboy]

Hi Tony.
You need a multimeter set to volts dc on the range up to 20volts.
Read voltage at battery before starting engine by placing probes on posative and negative terminals.Does't matter which way round,you will just get a - reading on the volts but the same values.It should be 12.6 if fully charged.
Start engine and the volts should rise by at least 0.5 giving a reading over 13.0
If you dont it is possible to check the relay but just give it a flick or gentle tap with a screwdriver may bring it back to life.Check all connections .
Good luck
Rick

 

[grumpyengraver]

Thanks Rick, I will give that a try, in a way I think it is me worrying to much as I only have a small Leisure Battery (lack of space). In the summer I could see the solar panel was charging ok and the battery seemed to last.

Happy Xmas to you and yours

Tony
:cheers:

 

[Harmergeddon]

Start engine and the volts should rise by at least 0.5 giving a reading over 13.0

If you're only reading 13volts at the battery when the engine is running then there are problems. Standard voltage regulation from most vehicle alternators put out around 14.4volts. You might expect a small drop down long cable lengths but this would be in the order of 0.1's not 1volt. 13v is way too low.

 

[rickboy]

It depends on the charge state of the battery.As long as there is an increase in voltage with the engine running it shows the system is kind of working.
You are correct in that if that battery is low are there is not too much resistance inline, a healhy 14 plus volts could be seen.
Like so many common place things we take for granted they are actually quite complex bits of tech and physics.
Merry Christmas everyone!!!

 

[grumpyengraver]

Thanks "Lads" I will give it a go, sun's out today and solar panel seems to be charging as the controler volt meter is reading 14.2 and goes to 14.6 then drops down to 13.8.
As for split charge I will have to try with a volt meter over Xmas.

Best Wishes.

Tony