Mike -
On the EVC, the combiner relay is operated by
the ignition key - with or w/o engine running.
To confirm this on your van, compare voltage
readings on each side of relay, then do same
with key on - but engine off. I think you will
see them equal - within ~0.1V. You can also
check for voltage on small center relay coil
terminal, when key is on.
I often use the 'Key On' to transfer power
into the weaker battery [setting hand brake to
turn off headlights]. I often connect trickle
charger to the relay terminals - one or both.
I plan to add a 1' lead with Twin-Bullet
connectors, to give small charger access to
either battery, w/o removing battery cover
for relay access.
You can equalize batteries without wasting
relay power with an alligator clip lead jumper
between the two large relay terminals. [This
clip lead is also needed when engine battery
is too low to operate the relay. If the lead
is too small to carry much current, clip it
from the small relay coil terminal to the
higher V of the 2 large terminals, with key
OFF. Remove jumper before cranking engine, as
the relay is un-energized during cranking.]
I equalize the batteries for a few minutes
before using a small 'jumper battery' to
assist starting.
Jack_son
===============================================
--In ev_update@..., "tornadokc247" <mdobbs@...> wrote:
Does a trickle charger connected to the main battery result in the
coach battery also being charged or do I need to run a separate
charger
for each battery?
Thanks,
Mike.
