[5th Gen : 08+]: Second battery...
I need some advice; I just bought a 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT. I used to own a 2002 Grand Caravan (before a lady decided to head on us). Here is the situation:
1) DC Powered fridge w/ 110AH deep cycle AGM battery powering this.
In the 2002 used a 20 amp DC-DC charger/charge controller (CTEK D250S Dual) for 110AH was going to add a 200W solar panel as well.
I plan to do the same in the 2014 - I will mount the solar panel on the luggage rack and run the wires back inside (secured under vehicle in the 2002 and hole drilled to pull interior). What I want to do is also use the engine/alternator to charge my deep cycle since my charge controller supports multiple inputs. So couple options (please tell me if possible):
1) I Did not get the inverter on this van, but I see it is 25amp fused and the wiring is existing. Is it possible for me to use the existing wiring and my 20amp DC-DC charger together?
2) If I cannot do "1" what would be the best way to route wiring back to the starter battery or alternator? Ideally this DC-DC charger (also has MPPT charger controller functionality) and deep cycle battery will be located behind the drivers seat with the DC fridge for each side access.
I really do not want to violate the warranty on this van if I can help it and since it is my first brand new Caravan I am a little scared about modifying it and screwing something up (we hate the idea of a proper camper, since the caravan gets great mileage).
Sorry if this question has been asked and answered before; noob when it comes to modifying vehicle wiring (at least cleanly and professional looking :P).
Thanks!
Mark
1) DC Powered fridge w/ 110AH deep cycle AGM battery powering this.
In the 2002 used a 20 amp DC-DC charger/charge controller (CTEK D250S Dual) for 110AH was going to add a 200W solar panel as well.
I plan to do the same in the 2014 - I will mount the solar panel on the luggage rack and run the wires back inside (secured under vehicle in the 2002 and hole drilled to pull interior). What I want to do is also use the engine/alternator to charge my deep cycle since my charge controller supports multiple inputs. So couple options (please tell me if possible):
1) I Did not get the inverter on this van, but I see it is 25amp fused and the wiring is existing. Is it possible for me to use the existing wiring and my 20amp DC-DC charger together?
2) If I cannot do "1" what would be the best way to route wiring back to the starter battery or alternator? Ideally this DC-DC charger (also has MPPT charger controller functionality) and deep cycle battery will be located behind the drivers seat with the DC fridge for each side access.
I really do not want to violate the warranty on this van if I can help it and since it is my first brand new Caravan I am a little scared about modifying it and screwing something up (we hate the idea of a proper camper, since the caravan gets great mileage).
Sorry if this question has been asked and answered before; noob when it comes to modifying vehicle wiring (at least cleanly and professional looking :P).
Thanks!
Mark



