big_bob_thefirst wrote:If money is an issue, the isolator is the way to go. It would b the "minimum" requirement for a dual bat system. U can just run a wire between the 2 batteries but u run a pretty big risk of not having enough juice to start the truck.
The downside of the just an isolator is that you'll just charge the deep cycle battery to around 80%. The dc to dc chargers claim to charge up to 100%. They also manage the battery charging cycle, which is better for the battery.
hvac guy wrote:I used to have an isolator
Then I went to the ctek
Batteries hold charge longer fridge runs better
Due to the higher battery voltage from being fully charged
With and isolator when it comes on the start battery charges
the second battery with hi inrush currents before the alternator
Charges both batteries up together.
Which is no good with and agm as it needs a different charge rate.
agm batteries do not like high inrush currents and low charging voltages
In my setup I have my ctek charging 2 100amp hour batteries.
if U live local to green bank I'll show U why U need a ctek
For example when testing I had a fully charged start battery
And half flat second batteries voltage to my ctek was 13.8v (I had lights on etc)
Current was 20amps, voltage out of the ctek was 14.4v at 13amps
A agm battery needs to be charged at 14.4v to charge to 100%
My start battery was charging with 3amp
Cowboy Dave wrote:I've had an isolator in mine but found I get longer life out of the AGM second battery with the ctek.
I have my old isolator at home somewhere if you want it. You can have it for postage or swing by and collect it if you're near Sydney. It's not doing anything in my box of spares.
I have the ctek 250s dual now as I bought a solar panel. In an accidental purchase from ebay I initially bought the 250s that is not dual - ie it doesn't have the extra ability to take a solar panel but will still do what you're trying to do. So maybe you could save some money buying that lower specced model - I haven't compared the prices lately. Alternatively perhaps we could come to an arrangement for my old one which is presently doing nothing at all, sitting somewhere in my garage in its box.
veight wrote:anyone got pictures of there ctek mounted ?
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