What is a DC to DC Charger? And how does it work?

[@horsesarealwaysright]

I wish I'd found you before I bought the wrong system! Excellent tutorials🎉🎉🎉

[@Vanosphere]

I've been an auto electrical installer for 37 years. I love the way James explains this.

[@robertsaville]

Perfect intro for a newbie who is struggling to understand what I need to do to get my leisure battery sorted ⭐️

[@AJBAdventures]

Great walkthrough on the install, however please make sure you install the fuses as close to the source as possible. So for example the battery feed to the charger from your starter battery (van battery under the floor plate) needs a fuse as soon it leaves the positive terminal, as well as the ignition feed wire, fuse just after the ring terminal you installed. Also its good practice to use conduit or plastic trunking on all cables to avoid any chaffing on sharp edges, as well as hollow grommets when running cables through factory or pre drilled holes. I hope this helps, better to be safe than sorry Thanks!

[@peterherrington3300]

Very impressive presentation. Clear , concise information & very impressive kit . Add 1 new sub

[@davidoneill7412]

Great video. I have the Ctek on my transit custom and was one of the best investments for the van. So simple to install.

[@CombeValleyCampers]

Thats great! Thanks for watching the video. Leigh

[@vdubventure]

Very helpful video, I am using rayne automotive for my leisure install on my crafter conversion 🤙 just need to finish the layout form to get the ball rolling

[@roostaraver]

I fitted the ctek last week after using a standard split charge and it’s instantly looking after my AGM battery better it’s charging about 14.8 now compared to the 13.8 of the previous charger so its charging the AGM to its full capacity now

[@lucrisdelarosa]

May you send a link to buy it, please?

[@stewartperry7797]

Love that background bus!

[@robmapstone8723]

Very informative thank you. Do you give advice as could do with some as looking to replace a split charge relay as now have a Renogy 100w Lithium battery. Would a Renogy DCC50S or 30S on a VW T5 2.5 2005 be ok. Bit worries as it mentions vsr in their video but did not think that is acceptable with a Lithium battery. Help!!😊

[@lmk928]

I would like to try the Victron to be used on my new Tesla Highland which has a 16v on the DC to DC convertor. To charge a 12v lithium battery to power my 800 watts sound system. I was wondering will it work and how should I tapped the remote ON from the car to the green by pass plug connector. As tesla does not have a ignition switch

[@mikeclifton7778]

Interesting video, I used the Sterling Power BB1230 in my conversion, the later ones with the green stripe don't need an ignition switched feed so very simple installation. You don't have to have a smart alternator to use this type of charger; if you don't, ideally both batteries need to be the same type.

[@jordlc3480]

I have the green strip sterling 30amp on a auto sleeper duetto, charging a lithium, on my amp meter the most it will output is 22amp but it’s been reliable for 2 years so far

[@alexandergreenfield91]

If you want to run a larger solar setup which would you recommend? Can the victron take a solar input?

[@ian_morg]

Great video! I have a VSR in my T5 at the moment which is constantly clicking on and off randomly. I’ve had it checked and the supplier said it’s working fine. Wiring has been checked and that’s ok and my 2x110ah leisure batteries are good too so I’ve been looking at the victron Orion 30a b2b. Great to get more info on both as I have considered the ctek as well.

[@johncgrant]

I may need to go to a DC-DC charger and remove the VSR. Just realised that the VSR activates when the main leisure battery charger is in use from 230v.

[@stevemoore-vale5632]

Great video. I fitted the d250se last week. I wasn’t sure whether I’d got a smart alternator or not but with both small wires disconnected (I have a lead acid leisure battery) I’m getting a 14.5-14.9v permanently. It doesn’t fluctuate any more than that so I’m pretty sure I’ve got a standard alternator. All the lights that should come on do come on so as far as I’m concerned it’s working great. So easy to install too.

[@stephengreen5210]

Is there a more in-depth look at the capabilities and differences between the Orion and cteck? I was assuming from the video they are the same in capability but reading a few comments they are not really quite the same as in when you incorporate solar. Just to clarify as well, how does the Orion know when to take the charge from the battery without the ignition cable.

[@nickgood8166]

Best I've seen, well done chaps, thanks!

[@TransitCustomCamper]

Great video thanks again guys. I used a CTEK in my Transit Custom Conversion, really happy with it 👍

[@aljam1998]

Great video, I'm thinking of getting a lithium battery so how easy/ difficult is it to swap split charge relay for a dc-dc charger? Thanks

[@chrissyb85]

Excellent and informative as ever!! I’ll be shopping for this set up soon!👍🏼👍🏼

[@markcarson2158]

Well explained. Great video !

[@rg7929]

Cool video, I saw someone say on another video that you need to modify your alternator to use these, is that correct? I'm considering one of these for a 2nd battery for my car audio.

[@JoCallow-rd6gr]

Can you please explain how to correctly size these Dc to Dc chargers. they come in 20 amp 30 amp and 60 amp versions . Also alternators have different outputs. Should this be used to decide on size of charger EG i have a crafter which is fitted with a smart alternator the output in 140wmp, how do I know what size is best to optimise rapid chargeing

[@idordonez]

Good afternoon, thank you for your video, I have a question, what happens when you have 24 V lithium batteries and you want to charge with the car's alternator? Should you use a cd-cd 12/24 and connect in the same way? Or is it necessary to use an additional electronic device? Thank you

[@galpi]

Can you connect a dc to dc charger directly to the alternator or do you need to get your source voltage from the starter battery?

[@powerwall]

do you use 12V lifepo4 battery?

[@utuberinxs]

Hi, can you please tell me if you can use the Orion-Tr Smart from a car battery to charge an EcoFlow pro portable battery? thanks in advance!!

[@timdbl7804]

Can I draw big power from the leisure battery while it is being charged from a DC to DC charger?

[@Supermojoe]

My transit custom has a smart alternator and the split charge relay works fine? It operates as soon as the van starts...

[@earthstick]

Will the Ctech solar charge the house battery when the ignition is off, and will it charge the starter battery from solar as well?

[@Transporter2084]

Epic comb over!

[@willyum1208]

Does the Orion trickle charge the starter battery when then van is off?

[@dominicespengler]

Thanks for this really helpful video. I have a sprinter and am using a BLUETTI AC200max for my leisure battery system (it includes an mppt charger and it’s settings allow for selecting solar or car/mains charging. Do you know if the Orion is a good solution for charging this via the alternator? Any experience with this? Thanks ❤

[@nicmcdonnell9864]

Can I use the Orion to charge my leisure battery for window cleaning??

[@CombeValleyCampers]

Yes :)

[@cycleoflife7331]

My bus has a 100amp alternator. I can’t find one that handles that much amps. What do you recommend

[@JazzFunkNobby1964]

What are the model numbers for the two chargers? Or do you have a link to the products?

[@NosRoadtripsenmotorise-xm4kz]

Hello, I want to replace the batteries of my motorhome for a 300ah lithium. I bought the victron isolated smart dc-dc 12v 30 amps. Can I connect the victron changer with the wires that are currently connected to my auxiliary batteries (by adding 60 amp fuse protection at the input to the output) to my new lithium without modifying the old installation...

[@pommypaul9118]

Very well presented gentlemen. Thank you. If I buy a dc-dc charger, how do I select the right size.(20/40/60 amp). Would like to maximise charge when driving, but without over taxing the 160 amp alternator. I suppose I could run everything on the vehicle and see what the current is, and therefore how much "headroom" there is. Can't find any guidelines published by manufacturers (Victron or Renogy). Any pointers would be appreciated.

[@CombeValleyCampers]

Hi! Would you please email your answer to [e-mail] and we can give you a comprehensive answer. Leigh

[@mikepell9326]

I don't have a smart alternator but have been told to get a dc dc charger as I currently have a VSR and it keeps clicking as I have a solar set up too.

[@Martin-ze1]

How do you connect solar and input from the van battery (alternator)

[@normanamey9828]

Thanks for a very informative video.

[@brismith2728]

Quick question if anyone can help. I have a solar system Epever mppt controller it’s wired to charge my leisure battery. Do I need to change the controller in order to charge my main battery or is there another way to do this. Thanks in advance if you have any advice, I would appreciate the help 😁👍

[@photog1529]

My vehicles does not have a smart alternator. I have a 175W solar panel on the roof to keep an SOK 100 amp hour charged. I'm also using a Redarc BCDC 25 amp charger as well, but not the solar capability that it offers...I'm using a Victron MPPT controller for the solar. Just curious if the MPPT and Redarc will cause problems, or will they both work together without issue? Would be a better idea to add a relay that would cut out solar charging when the engine is running and revert to solar when the vehicle is shut off?

[@ryancarey1535]

Great video chaps

[@timlamarre8680]

Question: When my house bank is charged and the DC to DC charger is off, the DC-to-DC, though off (it’s a Victron), seems to send charge from house back to starting battery. Is’t possible? What say you?

[@steveleston1848]

nice explaination I have a older van 05 it's not a smart alternator I have the victron battery isolator argofed. I'd like to add a battery independate of my house battery, it's charged w/ alt.shore power or generator. I'd like more battery battery separate from current house battery so can I charge w/a dc to dc charger. ? then if I choose to combine batterys can I use bothe the isolator which has out puts for 2 batterys an use dc to dc along w/ the isolator?

[@guyjones4713]

Great video. Please can you advise as to the isolated or non-isolated choice of the Orion?

[@guyjones4713]

Am I correct in saying if the negative of the input battery and the output battery are both connected to the chassis then non-isolated can be used?

[@Geminiappleboy]

Yes. Not recommended for use on aluminum boats.

[@XRPHordz]

Sir i want to charge a lithium battery under the hood, where do input my dc to dc charger?

[@SlamryCamry19]

Ok I have to say really good explanation I actually learned something from your video but I have a question all the videos I see on battery charging in cars or Vans campers RVs whatever everybody talks about the same thing battery to battery charging DC to DC charging etcetera but nobody explains how to simply swap a lead acid battery to lithium and charge it properly I'm trying to understand how to run from my alternator to a lithium battery a smart alternator like you're talking about in this video 2019 Toyota Camry which only charges at 13.8 volts I'm trying to get 14.4 volts to my lithium battery so that it doesn't hurt the battery what kind of charger DC to DC device what do I need for a single battery setup to step up the voltage for a proper charge I'm not understanding why everyone is going crazy for lithium batteries and recommended the swap so I purchased one to do the lead acid to lithium swap for better charging/ discharge,the lifespan everything really but I can't for the life of me mind a video or explanation that doesn't involve a lead acid starter battery I don't want a lead acid battery anywhere in my setup I would rather have a massive lithium bank and everything go to it and it alone than to try to split charge and Fry my alternator or have to charge four times longer than necessary how do I do just a single lithium lifepo4 battery with a smart alternator please explain this to me I am brand new to lithium and I am trying to learn for a dual purpose one for my tow behind camper and the other is car audio a hobby of mine both fields use lithium for the best power delivery possible I have a 74AH lifepo4 battery in hand that I want to add to my car audio system and would have already purchased my camper setup but as I said I literally can't find anything on the subject of just running a single battery bank with a smart alternator

[@jussikankinen9409]

Isnt starter battery over charged when second battery is much bigger and empty

[@Edge-dy9fh]

Great video guys. The thing you didn’t cover was how much current each unit could handle. The victron in your video is rated at 18 amp but they make a 30 amp version as well. I don’t know about the c tek. I have just bought a 120 ah lithium battery I am concerned that I might damage my vans alternator if it tried to recharge this battery too quickly for too long . Am I better off going for the lower rated unit or am I worrying unnecessarily?

[@Geminiappleboy]

You will not damage the alternator, as the main difference between the two Orion's is the output wattage. Or specifically, charging current. The Orion will not charge too quickly as lithium batteries have different stages of charging. You will be just fine, be sure to program the Orion to lithium specifications.

[@copperknob1971]

Hi, I am questioning the same thing about the amps, so basically would the 30amp put more in quicker ( at a controlled rate specific to the type of battery ) than the 18amp ? Hope that made sense.. in other words.. why buy the 30amp version ?

[@copperknob1971]

Hi, I am questioning the same thing about the amps, so basically would the 30amp put more in quicker ( at a controlled rate specific to the type of battery ) than the 18amp ? Hope that made sense.. in other words.. why buy the 30amp version ?

[@Edge-dy9fh]

@@copperknob1971 Yes the 30amp version would recharge your battery quicker, which would be useful if used on short journeys. I was concerned that the higher amps could stress the vans alternator. I have had no problems, so far, with Victron 30amp DC-DC charger and would recommend it.

[@rlordonio]

Can I replace a lead acid starter battery with a lifepo4 one?

[@krisg3984]

I don’t have a smart alternator. (2005) I’m going to need a new vehicle battery soon and wondered if it needs to be about the same as the in-house battery.its a marine deep cell 100ah , I’d like to get a second one to connect together. I’d like to charge these while I drive for over country drive/park. But have it with the dual ability to charge by solar panels . Then again 2 100ah batteries will need how much solar watts to charge up ? I’m so confused. Is the charger with a controller - and should I change the travel trailer converter ?

[@NickArkell]

This is a useful video. Thank you. One thing I cannot figure out is if there is ever a point where a leisure battery should stop being charged. I have a basic relay currently so yes the voltage is not regulated but my concern is if the leisure battery is fully charged, does sending a current to it cause any damage? My guess is that it is protected by the same voltage regulator in the alternator as the main battery but wanted to check. Thanks!

[@CombeValleyCampers]

Hi nick, that is correct, the voltage regulator for the car will prevent Iver charge. Leigh

[@NickArkell]

@@CombeValleyCampers Thanks Leigh

[@jonnypickett2546]

Interesting , thank you.. I have a 300w solar panel on my van and I don't think either of those units will do B to B and mppt on my set up though..

[@Edge-dy9fh]

I think Renogy do a unit that will suit you. I already have a Victron mppt so I will probably go for their stand alone b2b.

[@jonnypickett2546]

@@Edge-dy9fh Thank you.. I just have a cheap Chinese at the mo and really should upgrade..

[@jonnypickett2546]

*controller*

[@CraigJohnBoylan]

Can you connect either of these to a cigarette lighter rather than wire it in to the vehicle battery?

[@laurenmichele2029]

What's the difference between the different amperage dc to dc charger available? Like some are lower amp, some are higher, is that just how much they can power or do you choose based on battery sizes like with an mppt?

[@fishface6247]

I also would like to know this

[@dawnchadwick2317]

Can you install the Orion under the drivers seat?

[@Geminiappleboy]

If on a substrate that can handle high temperature and has proper air flow for cooling. Do not get it wet. I.e. spilled drink. The cover will not shed liquid compared to a vertical mount.

[@roseisreading]

My van was built in 1989 with original parts... I completely skipped the smart alternator discussions😆

[@fishface6247]

So if I have a 2007 Nissan Xterra and decide to go with the ctek do I HAVE to do the ignition switch?

[@k0hlsen]

I’m wondering the same

[@CombeValleyCampers]

If you don’t have a smart alternator you do not need the ignition switch lead connected according to the installation instructions

[@vincenzopromedia]

Is there a DC-DC Battery Charger that's good for more like 400 or 800 amps instead of just 20 or 40 amps at 12 volts? Because what If you ran it with mechman aftermarket 400a alternators?

[@fireboygamer]

This is what I've been asking too, seems the only way to get up there is to buy multiple chargers and use them together.

[@笑い袋会長快調チャンネル]

Torrey Pines San Diego

[@normanknowles2611]

Surely if you are away camping for say 5 to 9 days and the van is not being used there will not be any source charging the leisure battery so are these units only good for short stopovers when the van will be used and charging the batteries. If I am right in saying this then surely a solar installation is more efficient 🤔

[@radds2503]

Nicely explained 😊👍

[@harrysollmer1644]

Regulators can fail but chargers will work better

[@CraigAndersonPhotographer]

Sorry if I missed it, but can the Orion do both alternator and solar at the same time?

[@Geminiappleboy]

I'm unsure of what your question is, a solar panel requires an mppt to the battery. The Orion is from the battery to battery. If your solar is connected to either the vehicle or auxiliary battery, yes the Orion will charge either one regardless.

[@CraigAndersonPhotographer]

@@Geminiappleboy sorry, the Ctek DC charger can charge the auxiliary battery from both the alternator and a solar panel. Is the Orion able to perform the same functions or would I need an Orion DC charger and a solar pot charger?

[@Geminiappleboy]

@@CraigAndersonPhotographer Thanks for clarifying. You would need an Orion and also an MPPT from Victron as they are not an all in one component like the Ctek.

[@michael-mv3fj]

Why are you showing Orion and cetac but not Renogy? you are not giving a fair presentation

[@nexpro6985]

These seem ridiculously overpriced for what is a pretty simple piece of equipment.

[@ashtongrist]

Lead acid... ridiculous

[@jordanlee2645]

Very wordy, get to the point. This should be a 3 minute video