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split charge relay problems

Posted: Wed Sep 15, 2010 2:51 pm
by coolcampers
Hello all
if a split charge relay is working properly, should it be possible for it to drain the starter battery? I have a relay that automatically senses the charge and diverts current to the leisure battery. However, recently, when i have been running things off the LB and it goes flat, it drains the starter battery. Do I have a faulty relay. I think its a smartcom relay.
thanks

Re: split charge relay problems

Posted: Wed Sep 15, 2010 2:56 pm
by francophile1947
Sounds like it's goosed :roll: I think it's only a 30A relay which, if your leisure battery gets too low, may well be damaged by the large charge coming from the alternator to the LB. I'm sure some more knowledgeable person will be along soon :D

Re: split charge relay problems

Posted: Wed Sep 15, 2010 5:44 pm
by g8dhe
Would fully agree with the above!
I always wondered why when you search for Smartcom Relay on google you see lots of adverts for packs of 5 or 10! Obviously people must replace them rather often ...

Re: split charge relay problems

Posted: Wed Sep 15, 2010 7:11 pm
by coolcampers
ok thanks for that. next question. can anybody recommend a good one? All the wiring is in place so i deont need the full kit, just relay

thanks

Re: split charge relay problems

Posted: Wed Sep 15, 2010 8:12 pm
by g8dhe
Any other relay won't have the same mounting arrangements. The most frequently suggested one on the forum is the Willinton kit, he will make up kits it seems depending on what you want, drop him an email via EBAY is the suggested approach http://shop.ebay.co.uk/willinton/m.html use the Contact seller button after selecting Seller info link.

The other thing to bear in mind is that the previous cables and fuses may not be adequately rated either.

Re: split charge relay problems

Posted: Thu Sep 16, 2010 11:03 pm
by Jaws
For a bit less money and fewer bells/whistles etc I used a dual sensing kit from this supplier

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/INTELLIGENT-Self- ... 3f0301686c

Have to say the willinton kit looks the dogs b*****ks though! :lol:

Re: split charge relay problems

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2010 5:32 am
by dave_aber
It really is the dogs bits, and so is the after sales service. Lo

Re: split charge relay problems

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2010 9:27 am
by Tripewriter
You can get a split charge relay at Maplins for a couple of pounds.

Re: split charge relay problems

Posted: Fri Sep 17, 2010 9:55 am
by mikexgough
But you wont beat the quality and reliability of the Willinton kit.
I needed a battery tray too and so purchased the all singing all dancing kit including the tray...... Now with the 110Ah battery I have......nothing else comes close to be able to charge it as effectively...especially with the VSR modified perfectly for the Bongo and the additional fuse box and patch leads..... wins hands down IMHO .....AND you will only buy one....it's a kind of fit and forget component....