Thank you John for the isolated and non isolated explanation, I emailed Victron and they told me to check with my local dealer for my needs, they could’ve easily explained it as you have..
excellent video thanks. I worry about possibly overloading the alternator , will the Orion prevent this ? with any old alternator ? No need for a temperature sensor on the alternator ?
Educational as always, and thank you for emphasising the need to appropriately fuse/breaker the positive terminals at each of the system (vehicle and house/leisure) batteries - I’ve seen more than a few dubious van installs where the person responsible genuinely can’t understand why they need more than just the one fuse/breaker in the whole system; and then try to justify their stance by asking if I know how much they cost - my normal response is “less than repairs to your van when it catches fire!” Fully agree with your stance on Victron kit; not cheap, but quality rarely is. Stay safe.
Hi John, You can connect 2 of the Victron DC-DC chargers as I have 2 fitted and it works fantastic, I have the Peugeot Boxer 175. I used 35mm cable to a positive and negative bus bar and fed the 2 chargers from there and they both come on at the same time.
It makes me laugh at the thumbs down numbers ! What’s to dislike it’s good solid information and you don’t have to follow it if you are not interested ! I personally will not be fitting a B to B because I don’t have the need but I still enjoyed the video . Richie.
It takes all sorts to make the world go round, I guess some really need that gratification of being different and pressing thumbs down gets them off in a way we’ll never know 🤷🏼♂️👍🏻😁
Hi hope you are well we have a swift challenger 620 se i dont understand this but i just love watching your videos enjoy Mandy's cooking she makes everything look so easy keep safe from portadown meg xx
One of the best things we fitted to our van . Although with us not starting the van up for a week and it being super cold I tried the in app boost for allowing the leisure battery’s to give me a jump start . Sadly Nop it didn’t work and heck if I know why not
Ive just come across this video Jon, and its brilliantly and simply explained thank you. Could I ask, do you know if this set up would work straight into a Bluetti AC300 / B300 to charge on the go, rather than using the 12v cigarette socket at 10a. If so it would solve my current headache of working out how best to do this to charge faster without installing a separate inverter.
13:43 EXACTLY what I’ve been wondering about. I have AGMs at the moment but would like to switch to lighter lithium in the future without disrupting my entire setup. Thanks for posting this. Really helpful. 👍
Well done, I installed one of these just before crimbo, Ive got a polinovel 200ah battery, and had researched this for a long time online as to how it fits with my system and split charge etc etc before fitting, and I can say your video is the best around online for this piece of equpment. Cheers
Hi great video very helpful The one area i could not find info on anywhere was my original Sargeant split charger which I had hoped to isolate. In your video you have left yours still working without apparently any problems. This has given me confidence to stop worrying about mine and leave it alone. Thanks
Thanks for the video! Very well explained. I have the same Victron Orion but for some reason, all I get it's something between 8 to 11 Ah when I start the engine. What could be the reason? The Orion is 7 meters away from the starter battery. Could that be the reason why it only gives 8 to 11 Ah? Thanks!
Hi John and Mandy, Love what you do and watching your posts. Me and my wife have a Motorhome and plan to do the same trips/ adventures once we are allowed out of this mess. However in the mean time I can offer my help. I run my own business which is a Laser Cutting Company. So my offer is if you need anything like brackets, plates from any metal or plastic, I will manufacture these for free and delivery to any PO address you need. Hope that helps Regards Barry
Nice one john very useful information I got a sergeant ec 328 with x2 100ah batteries , 1000w inverter with a 95w Solar panel new batteries are needed looks like the B2B charger will be added to the shopping list stay safe you guys 🌈😊
Great video, clear explanation. I have a modern van but with Pb batteries and simple SCR charging set up. I would like to add a Lithium battery and the Victron B2B. Do I need to somehow disconnect my existing SCR before connecting up the B2B? Strikes me I should as if the SCR kicks in first to charge an Li battery , it will overload the alternator by drawing too much current? The Burstner 'block' you had seemed to have 'semi-intelligent' facilities, so it was OK to leave it but not so a 'standard' SCR?
in the phone app on battery setup does it have sealed battery in the drop down menu...and has it got to be 16mm cable starter to dc to dc charger or could i use 10mm cable ....thanks j&m
It has many battery options on the setup page or you can choose your own custom settings. Cable size, length of cable and amps sent down a cable are for you to calculate for your setup.
This B2B is fully automated and delivers the right charge the batteries need. For full info watch the video on your RUclips channel, follow the link in our bio. 👍🏻
So glad to see this video- I have the same charger but cannot get the blue tooth to connect. It is asking for a numerical code- but the codes has letters…… any suggestions? Thanks in advance!!
Hi John.....You mentioned if you had the room you may have gone for the 60amp b2b....I've put a 30amp Sterling unit in my Mhome just before this video but may buy a Xlwb sprinter so have the space for the 60amp....I'll have 500w Solar and 200ah Agm and be off grid mainly....Keep up the Fantastic Work
Hi great video, does this mean I can get the kit on Amazon with the Cargo split charge then add a 10amp Victron? I've an AGM 95ah leisure battery just trying to figure the best way to charge it.
Brilliant explanation of the Victron B2B charger, just one thought how do you adjust the charge parameters of the electroblock charger to suit lithium. Wobby1
Just found this Nov. 2021. Great! I have the US version of the Fiat van, so your battery install was very near like mine. Mine is a homebuilt conversion we purchased used. The starter batt. was connected direct to the leisure batt., a 217 amp hour agm! No b to b voltage upping! The solar charger was also set to just flooded lead acid style and it would never keep up. I corected that. You have given me the path to finish the job with this device. thank you very bigly. Is upping a real word? Asking for an American.
Just a basic question. When leisure batteries need charging. With the Bat to Bat. In the dark start engine and drive off does the BTB give priority to power head lights , cab fan Demister winfscreen heater and wipers and does the charging current drop to batteries when lights on etc. Cheers from old George
its amazing the difference b2b charger makes... especially when you initially think that just running the car plus having solar make take a while to fill the batteries..... stay safe glen & co.
I have 2 x Renogy 50A with built in mppt, it also has Bluetooth with a plug in, it has the advantage of charging the starter batteries when it detects the leisure batteries are full. In the UK 100 amps is great.
Thank you very Much for your contribution!!! I have a doubt, your input cable from your main battery are of 16mm and your output cable also? It seems thinner...??? Thank very much! Best regards!
Hi John I hope your keeping well in these tough times. I’m looking at upgrading my setup to one 100amp lithium battery and one of these. Only use the van every other weekend really. You’ve answered all the questions that I had in my mind as you usually do. I can always rely on you and Mandy to help me out with your videos. Thanks for everything you do and Keep up the good work mate.
Hi John what would I need for a lithium set up I’ve currently got a truma 100w panel with dual charger and banner leisure battery.would I need to change to a b2b dual system if I changed to lithium or would it run off my truma dual charger.some lithium say their a drop in replacement?
Curious if you can put two inputs on the B2B ? I pull a travel trailer that has a converter that charges the battery once I am on 120 volt shore power. The battery supplies control voltages to all the appliances and lights when on shore power. Then when towing the battery is charged by the vehicle alternator. So they are never on at the same time or only briefly, currently I have a lead acid battery that is insufficient when there is no shore power available. I wish to install lithium batteries to rectify this. Thanks for a great explanation of the Victron B2B!
I see you used 16mm2 cable which is rated about 110A - but the charger is only outputting about 30A. Please could you explain? Also, does the Victron b2b allow you to link the leisure battery to the starter in case starter battery is low on charge. Thanks.
So, I am trying to setup a camping trailer with solar, so it will charge off the car whilst I'm driving. Any idea if I can just run cables from the socket to the battery or will I need one of these? A little out of your wheel house but don't know where else to ask. Ta!
It’s not a tricky question, you just need to understand 12v electricity doesn’t travel well down long wires, most caravans have a 12v feed to power the fridge while towing, it’s around 10-15 amps though, due to the size of cable and distance. I’d say if you used 35mm cable and used an Anderson DC connector then you could use the b2b in the trailer to charge it’s leisure batteries. So run the pos & neg 35mm cables directly off your tow vehicle starter battery, fused with 100A mega fuse, then put the Anderson connections near your tow ball, get some decent protective conduit for running the cables at the trailer end and allow for articulation, then you can just follow the rest of my b2b install video 👍🏻
Great video. Just fitted mine after watching this. I have noticed that my Bluetooth light never stops blinking. It is blinking every 5 seconds which states it’s under normal shut down conditions but can I confirm yours blinks even with the engine off?
Hello, great vid. Can I use the Victorian b2b without using solar. I have used both solar and b2b in my previous van but for my new small van I want to use solely b2b in my electrical system.
Thanks John, looks nice and simple as suggested, still appreciated the step by step. This upgrade will get its money worth off-grid in Scotland for surePerfect timing for me. Big Thumbs up!!
Hi John. Thank you very much for the best explanation about the difference between isolated and non-isolated b2b charger. Great learning from you.....thank you!
Excellent insight how to install the BtB John , I'm thinking about fitting one in my Adria but heard some folks saying Motothomes already have chargers for trickle charging leisure batteries, does that neani need to disconnect the Adria one before installing the Vitron , I'm a bit confused , can you advise please.
Thanks John seen the info now sorry if a pest but one more question on the power cable from the starter battery to the BT B in side what size is the fuse at the battery end and what size is the isolater fuse unit just before the BtB sorry again if being a pest
Thanks for the video! So helpful. About to order the 12v to 12v victron orion. How to decide between the 18 amp and 30 amp? I have a 200 ah AGM battery for the leisure battery. Any advice would be much appreciated. Thank you. :)
Except for the choise of battery type; are there anything else in the settings that needs to be configured? I got a motorhome with start/stop function. Thanks for great videos. Peter
Hi John, I'm about to fit the same b2b charger and plan to run it along side the in built charger on the EBL 30 . As I understand it you have done the same but my question is how do you know the charging profile of the EBL is suitable for Lithium. All the best Tim
Hi John. I've got an 06 VW Crafter as a base for our motorhome with 2 x 200amp AGM lesiure batteries, I want to fit a Vitron B2B charger am I going to have problems overheating the alternator when charging at idle speed? If so should I change the alternator ? Taa
It’s going to be fine, as I said in the video this is a b2b charger, your alternator then charges your starter battery as normal. This b2b does not pull power from your alternator directly.
ThankU John for great explanation . How I can finde de second isolator you showed on video. The square one ( looks like Lego pieces) with red top and little trip switch?? And other cuestion what cable you using it’s a 25mm2 plug input to Orión, and 16mm2 Output?? Cheers&StaySafe 🛠🚐✌️
Hi John and Mandy. You are the man who knows everything. We are planning to do a tour of the Cheshire ring canals in our van after lockdown. Do you have any experience in using the British waterway toilets and water stations with a water way key. I can’t find any details on the web.
I knew you would know. Thank you very much just been for a walk on Werneth Low where you did your drone Vlog. I live in Romiley so spend many a hour up there. Keep safe to you both and Cooper 👍🏻
I’m just about to install the same device (except in non-isolated type) in a travel trailer. I want to put a switch on the B2B charger so I can easily turn it off - for example if caught in bumper to bumper traffic on a hot day. My interpretation of the manual is that all automatic functions will still be intact when the charger is on. You seem to be under the impression that they might not. Am I correct?
The non isolated in a trailer? How will the chassis grounding work to the vehicle? If your engine is running the b2b will charge the leisure battery, makes no difference if the engine is idling or your driving along a road. It’s all in the video 👍🏻
@@johnmandy1) The truck and trailer chassis grounds are connected. 2) Alternators cool their selves by way of a fan that spins along with the alternator - so the faster it spins the better it cools. When an alternator gets fried by a dc2dc charger (which definately does happen) it's often caused by heat. So turning the charger off during long periods of idling - especially in hot weather - could save the alternator. Also if the alternator (or other part of the charging system) does fail you always want to turn off as much of the load (AC, stereos, etc) as possible when you notice an issue. It can be the difference between driving to a shop or having to be towed. Also I might add that my truck came from the factory pre-wired with accessory switches that makes it extremely easy for me to do this.
Hi John & Mandy, Thank you for sharing and detail information for the connection and config! I have the same setup but for the 12 | 24 | 15 (car-victron-(battleborn 100)- goalzero 1000). In your set up how can the victron knows to not over withdraw from the car battery?
Great information there John. Thanks so much. I have installed the same after watching your video. However somebody has told me that I have fitted the wrong circuit breaker. I fitted a 30amp like you showed. My Dc to Dc is 12/12 30amp. Should I be fitting a bigger breaker? Thank you.
@@Wizardinthewild Yes, I trust John. My problem is... I don’t have a great deal of knowledge when it comes to amps and alternators. I know enough (I think) that the guy who installed my 12/12 30 charger used 10 awg wire, (I am not sure what that size is in UK?)which is wrong, so I am re-wiring it myself now. My 30 amp breaker kept breaking after a few minutes. Which I didn’t understand? I am hoping it is due to a much to small wire? And not the fuse? I will stick to the 30 amp fuse I have and see what happens? Do you have any thoughts? I have a 2019 Ram Promaster and I am “pretty sure” it is a 180 alternator? Thanks for your response. I needed that encouragement to move forward on this. I haven’t been using the charger.
Hello great video. Could you tell me? Could i use a lead acid battery for the starter battery and a lithium as my leisure battery in a combined set up? Thank you.
Great Video John, thank you. I have been thinking about a B 2 B charger but I am a not very good at electrics and I wasn't sure if I could fit one along side my solar charge unit. Thank you again.
Hi John, question about the second charger. I’ve got a victron charger right on the leisure battery. Will it then charge the starter battery trought this DCDC as well? Or is it only (hopefully) one way of charging, and only works when the starter has a higher “charging” voltage. Best regards, Taeke
Hi John. Really good and detailed video here on the subject of double charging. Need to watch a couple of times to fully absorb but this is such a strength and we are all grateful for you taking time to explain. Cheers Mal and Dave in Stoke
Will this drain youre starter battery also when the leisure battery is getting empty with this setup? Cause I want to keep them apart so I can always start my engine Thanks in advance for youre cristal clear video! Greetings from the Netherlands
Bit of a strange question. So I bought a victron kit. Which has come with the isolated charger. Because my negative on both my batteries go the van metal work can I run both negatives from the charger to the body instead of running a negative from the vehicle battery to the charger? (Reason being I’ve already routed my positive cable without realising I got the isolated version) 😂
Thank you John for the isolated and non isolated explanation, I emailed Victron and they told me to check with my local dealer for my needs, they could’ve easily explained it as you have..
the only person who sheds light on isolated and non-isolated
I've watched tons of these videos looking for a b2b set up and this one was the first I completely understood. Amazing job, thanks mate 👍
Glad it helped!
me too ....
You gave the best explanation of isolated vs. non-isolated that I have heard so far. Now I get it. Thank you and happy travels.
Thank you for the explanation between isolated and non-isolated.
I installed one in my friends vw camper van yesterday, literally,so him being the end user I shared this video to him. Thank you for this video!
Did you use isolated or non isolated? I am about to install on my vw camper. Thanks
Hello, it's so difficult to find a video complet in French like yours ! so very thanks for your video, i try to do it now ;)
excellent video thanks. I worry about possibly overloading the alternator , will the Orion prevent this ? with any old alternator ? No need for a temperature sensor on the alternator ?
As a result, we are now also following your guys. Cheers from NZ
Well explained difference between the isolated and non isolated versions. Great video as usual.
Thanks 👍🏻😁
Educational as always, and thank you for emphasising the need to appropriately fuse/breaker the positive terminals at each of the system (vehicle and house/leisure) batteries - I’ve seen more than a few dubious van installs where the person responsible genuinely can’t understand why they need more than just the one fuse/breaker in the whole system; and then try to justify their stance by asking if I know how much they cost - my normal response is “less than repairs to your van when it catches fire!” Fully agree with your stance on Victron kit; not cheap, but quality rarely is. Stay safe.
Breakers & fuses cost nothing really, they’re just not attractive, and most people go for a nice looking electrical system these days. 👍🏻😁
@@johnmandy Agreed, breakers also have a very convenient benefit: you can use them as switches to isolate systems during installation and testing.
Hi John,
You can connect 2 of the Victron DC-DC chargers as I have 2 fitted and it works fantastic, I have the Peugeot Boxer 175.
I used 35mm cable to a positive and negative bus bar and fed the 2 chargers from there and they both come on at the same time.
Great setup 👍🏻😁
Definitely another item on my wish list for the van. 🙃🚐👍
It makes me laugh at the thumbs down numbers ! What’s to dislike it’s good solid information and you don’t have to follow it if you are not interested ! I personally will not be fitting a B to B because I don’t have the need but I still enjoyed the video . Richie.
It takes all sorts to make the world go round, I guess some really need that gratification of being different and pressing thumbs down gets them off in a way we’ll never know 🤷🏼♂️👍🏻😁
B2Bs and Euro 6 juicy regenarative alternators are just great. Thanx John.
😁👍🏻
Hi hope you are well we have a swift challenger 620 se i dont understand this but i just love watching your videos enjoy Mandy's cooking she makes everything look so easy keep safe from portadown meg xx
Thanks Meg 👍🏻😁
Just getting my head around leisure batteries this video really helped thanks!
One of the best things we fitted to our van . Although with us not starting the van up for a week and it being super cold I tried the in app boost for allowing the leisure battery’s to give me a jump start . Sadly Nop it didn’t work and heck if I know why not
I think you’ve got a different product, this b2b doesn’t jump start, it simply wouldn’t allow enough power through to start an engine
Ive just come across this video Jon, and its brilliantly and simply explained thank you. Could I ask, do you know if this set up would work straight into a Bluetti AC300 / B300 to charge on the go, rather than using the 12v cigarette socket at 10a. If so it would solve my current headache of working out how best to do this to charge faster without installing a separate inverter.
This video explains how to do that
ruclips.net/video/BbWF54wjL6Q/видео.htmlsi=BTUmN97aDdHcKJra
Thank you. Best video on this I’ve found. Thanks for taking the time.
13:43 EXACTLY what I’ve been wondering about. I have AGMs at the moment but would like to switch to lighter lithium in the future without disrupting my entire setup. Thanks for posting this. Really helpful. 👍
I had just finsied watching your video and then you popped up on CamperVibe.. Small world.. Hope you have revovered
Ah yes, we’ve know Em & Lou for years and travelled to 6 countries with them. They’re great fun to be around.
This is perfect for what I have been looking for as I want to add a lithium battery to my hymer. Thanks.
Well done, I installed one of these just before crimbo, Ive got a polinovel 200ah battery, and had researched this for a long time online as to how it fits with my system and split charge etc etc before fitting, and I can say your video is the best around online for this piece of equpment. Cheers
Hi great video very helpful
The one area i could not find info on anywhere was my original Sargeant split charger which I had hoped to isolate.
In your video you have left yours still working without apparently any problems.
This has given me confidence to stop worrying about mine and leave it alone.
Thanks
I have one in my Jeep install and love it - reliable 30A at 12V whenever the engine is running. Thanks for the review!
Brilliant mate. Answered all my questions. Thanks.
Thanks for good explanation of device, and info video on installation.
Thanks for the video! Very well explained. I have the same Victron Orion but for some reason, all I get it's something between 8 to 11 Ah when I start the engine. What could be the reason? The Orion is 7 meters away from the starter battery. Could that be the reason why it only gives 8 to 11 Ah? Thanks!
Hi John and Mandy, Love what you do and watching your posts. Me and my wife have a Motorhome and plan to do the same trips/ adventures once we are allowed out of this mess. However in the mean time I can offer my help. I run my own business which is a Laser Cutting Company. So my offer is if you need anything like brackets, plates from any metal or plastic, I will manufacture these for free and delivery to any PO address you need. Hope that helps
Regards
Barry
Thanks Barry, I’ll keep you in mind for future projects 👍🏻😁
Thanks John for another educational vlog, always appreciate them . Stay safe you three
Thanks Damien 😎👍🏻
Nice one john very useful information I got a sergeant ec 328 with x2 100ah batteries , 1000w inverter with a 95w Solar panel new batteries are needed looks like the B2B charger will be added to the shopping list stay safe you guys 🌈😊
Thanks 👍🏻😁
A good old original gadget video 👍 you can never have too much power 👍😀🐾
Power to the people 😁👍🏻
Great video, clear explanation. I have a modern van but with Pb batteries and simple SCR charging set up. I would like to add a Lithium battery and the Victron B2B. Do I need to somehow disconnect my existing SCR before connecting up the B2B? Strikes me I should as if the SCR kicks in first to charge an Li battery , it will overload the alternator by drawing too much current? The Burstner 'block' you had seemed to have 'semi-intelligent' facilities, so it was OK to leave it but not so a 'standard' SCR?
in the phone app on battery setup does it have sealed battery in the drop down menu...and has it got to be 16mm cable starter to dc to dc charger or could i use 10mm cable ....thanks j&m
It has many battery options on the setup page or you can choose your own custom settings. Cable size, length of cable and amps sent down a cable are for you to calculate for your setup.
Hi John and Mandy really enjoyed your video really looking forward to seeing your next video keep safe 😷👍🏻
Thanks 😁👍🏻
Thanks John. We bought one of these for our conversion. You made sense of this for me and I'm not fitting it 😂
😁👍🏻
Fantastic video how do you stop your battery been over charged by the charger please
This B2B is fully automated and delivers the right charge the batteries need. For full info watch the video on your RUclips channel, follow the link in our bio. 👍🏻
Hi John and Mandy 👍 just saying thanks for sharing this video and information 👍 keep safe and say well ✅ sue and den 👍👍👍🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧
Thanks 😁👍🏻
Thanks John and Mandy for sharing 👍
So glad to see this video- I have the same charger but cannot get the blue tooth to connect. It is asking for a numerical code- but the codes has letters…… any suggestions? Thanks in advance!!
Hi John.....You mentioned if you had the room you may have gone for the 60amp b2b....I've put a 30amp Sterling unit in my Mhome just before this video but may buy a Xlwb sprinter so have the space for the 60amp....I'll have 500w Solar and 200ah Agm and be off grid mainly....Keep up the Fantastic Work
Thanks 😁👍🏻
More great advice John..........well explained and easy to follow instructions.......stay safe........thanks for sharing
Thanks 😁👍🏻
Hi great video, does this mean I can get the kit on Amazon with the Cargo split charge then add a 10amp Victron? I've an AGM 95ah leisure battery just trying to figure the best way to charge it.
great video!Can you connect it in a 12volt 180watt socket in the trunk and charge a 12volt batterie and a 12v fridge buck there, at the same time???
Excellent video, well explained. 👍
Brilliant explanation of the Victron B2B charger, just one thought how do you adjust the charge parameters of the electroblock charger to suit lithium. Wobby1
Just found this Nov. 2021. Great!
I have the US version of the Fiat van, so your battery install was very near like mine. Mine is a homebuilt conversion we purchased used. The starter batt. was connected direct to the leisure batt., a 217 amp hour agm! No b to b voltage upping! The solar charger was also set to just flooded lead acid style and it would never keep up. I corected that.
You have given me the path to finish the job with this device.
thank you very bigly.
Is upping a real word? Asking for an American.
Great video. Hope you are all keeping well and staying warm and well feed. Hope Coop is ok and getting acclimatised to the cold weather. 👍
Life goes on, we’re all well thanks 👍🏻😁
Just a basic question. When leisure batteries need charging. With the Bat to Bat. In the dark start engine and drive off does the BTB give priority to power head lights , cab fan Demister winfscreen heater and wipers and does the charging current drop to batteries when lights on etc. Cheers from old George
Please read the comments as this has been covered already 😁👍🏻
@@johnmandy ok matey will do. Cheers 👍
Thanks for the informative video! I could not find the circuit breakers that you mentioned (0:40) on the motor home page of your website.
I’m updating that as the seller I used no longer sells them. Please check back in a few days 👍🏻
@@johnmandy Thanks!
Just installed in a Citroen Relay following your great instructions, many thanks John.
its amazing the difference b2b charger makes... especially when you initially think that just running the car plus having solar make take a while to fill the batteries..... stay safe glen & co.
Tech keeps getting better 👍🏻😁
I have 2 x Renogy 50A with built in mppt, it also has Bluetooth with a plug in, it has the advantage of charging the starter batteries when it detects the leisure batteries are full. In the UK 100 amps is great.
Our solar setup chargers our batteries once the hab batteries get to 100% 👍🏻
You make things look so easy. I'm like huh..hubby's drinking it all in.
Stay sane guys.
🙏
👍🏻😁 thanks
Thank you very Much for your contribution!!! I have a doubt, your input cable from your main battery are of 16mm and your output cable also? It seems thinner...??? Thank very much! Best regards!
That’s explained in the video 👍🏻
Great video. I have the same B2B but have never dug into the settings and realised it's set up for lithium when we have AGM so I will get that sorted.
That’s good then 😁👍🏻
Hi John I hope your keeping well in these tough times.
I’m looking at upgrading my setup to one 100amp lithium battery and one of these. Only use the van every other weekend really.
You’ve answered all the questions that I had in my mind as you usually do.
I can always rely on you and Mandy to help me out with your videos.
Thanks for everything you do and Keep up the good work mate.
Ta for clearing that up about the 2 chargers 👍
Any time 👍🏻😁
Well done! Very good explanation between isolated and non isolated for vehicle type! Thank you for sharing!
cant be used directly from car alternator right? have to be car alternator starter battery and from starter battery plus and minus to the b2b right?
It’s a battery to battery charger, so it can only be used connected to a battery 👍🏻
Thanks John, really appreciate the video.
Hi John what would I need for a lithium set up I’ve currently got a truma 100w panel with dual charger and banner leisure battery.would I need to change to a b2b dual system if I changed to lithium or would it run off my truma dual charger.some lithium say their a drop in replacement?
I’ve got lithium batteries, so you could replicate my system. The b2b charges the battery on the output, it doesn’t charge the starter battery 👍🏻
Is their a dual charger that will do both cab and leisure batteries.with a lithium set up?
@@mikespeers8281 cheers Mike
Curious if you can put two inputs on the B2B ? I pull a travel trailer that has a converter that charges the battery once I am on 120 volt shore power. The battery supplies control voltages to all the appliances and lights when on shore power. Then when towing the battery is charged by the vehicle alternator. So they are never on at the same time or only briefly, currently I have a lead acid battery that is insufficient when there is no shore power available. I wish to install lithium batteries to rectify this. Thanks for a great explanation of the Victron B2B!
I’m not sure what you’re trying to achieve, on mains hookup you need a battery charger, not a b2b.
@@johnmandy I am trying to charge from the inverter on shore power and the alternator when driving.
Excellent walk through, will have to rethink position based on the heat output you mentioned!
It does need some airflow for cooling 👍🏻
i now know ...great im going to use this as another way to charge my caravan lifo4 , my only concern is cable size for a 25 foot run to the lifo
I see you used 16mm2 cable which is rated about 110A - but the charger is only outputting about 30A. Please could you explain? Also, does the Victron b2b allow you to link the leisure battery to the starter in case starter battery is low on charge. Thanks.
Please feel free to read the other comments where I’ve already covered these questions.
More Excellent advice John , take care both.
Thanks 👍🏻😁
So, I am trying to setup a camping trailer with solar, so it will charge off the car whilst I'm driving. Any idea if I can just run cables from the socket to the battery or will I need one of these? A little out of your wheel house but don't know where else to ask. Ta!
It’s not a tricky question, you just need to understand 12v electricity doesn’t travel well down long wires, most caravans have a 12v feed to power the fridge while towing, it’s around 10-15 amps though, due to the size of cable and distance.
I’d say if you used 35mm cable and used an Anderson DC connector then you could use the b2b in the trailer to charge it’s leisure batteries. So run the pos & neg 35mm cables directly off your tow vehicle starter battery, fused with 100A mega fuse, then put the Anderson connections near your tow ball, get some decent protective conduit for running the cables at the trailer end and allow for articulation, then you can just follow the rest of my b2b install video 👍🏻
@@johnmandy awesome thank you!
Great video. Just fitted mine after watching this. I have noticed that my Bluetooth light never stops blinking. It is blinking every 5 seconds which states it’s under normal shut down conditions but can I confirm yours blinks even with the engine off?
Yes, it blinks all the time in standby mode.
Hello, great vid. Can I use the Victorian b2b without using solar. I have used both solar and b2b in my previous van but for my new small van I want to use solely b2b in my electrical system.
The b2b and solar are independent systems, you can run both or just one, it’s fine either way.
Thanks John, looks nice and simple as suggested, still appreciated the step by step. This upgrade will get its money worth off-grid in Scotland for surePerfect timing for me. Big Thumbs up!!
Such a great upgrade, it’s been keep us in power for 3 weeks now, can’t wait to get back on the road & back to Scotland too 👍🏻😎
Hi John. Thank you very much for the best explanation about the difference between isolated and non-isolated b2b charger. Great learning from you.....thank you!
You’re welcome 👍🏻😁
Great, I'm going to install my booster in my van.
Excellent insight how to install the BtB John , I'm thinking about fitting one in my Adria but heard some folks saying Motothomes already have chargers for trickle charging leisure batteries, does that neani need to disconnect the Adria one before installing the Vitron , I'm a bit confused , can you advise please.
If you watch the video you’ll hear me talk about the factory charger in our van👍🏻
Thanks John seen the info now sorry if a pest but one more question on the power cable from the starter battery to the BT B in side what size is the fuse at the battery end and what size is the isolater fuse unit just before the BtB sorry again if being a pest
Thanks for the video! So helpful. About to order the 12v to 12v victron orion. How to decide between the 18 amp and 30 amp? I have a 200 ah AGM battery for the leisure battery. Any advice would be much appreciated. Thank you. :)
Thanks, this is very helpful. I am just starting with van electrics and leisure batteries. I was told not to get VSR as it's old now.
Except for the choise of battery type; are there anything else in the settings that needs to be configured? I got a motorhome with start/stop function. Thanks for great videos. Peter
No, just the battery type and the rest it handles itself 👍🏻
Hi John, I'm about to fit the same b2b charger and plan to run it along side the in built charger on the EBL 30 . As I understand it you have done the same but my question is how do you know the charging profile of the EBL is suitable for Lithium.
All the best Tim
Hi John. I've got an 06 VW Crafter as a base for our motorhome with 2 x 200amp AGM lesiure batteries, I want to fit a Vitron B2B charger am I going to have problems overheating the alternator when charging at idle speed? If so should I change the alternator ? Taa
It’s going to be fine, as I said in the video this is a b2b charger, your alternator then charges your starter battery as normal. This b2b does not pull power from your alternator directly.
ThankU John for great explanation . How I can finde de second isolator you showed on video. The square one ( looks like Lego pieces) with red top and little trip switch??
And other cuestion what cable you using it’s a 25mm2 plug input to Orión, and 16mm2 Output??
Cheers&StaySafe 🛠🚐✌️
John can answer your question better if you follow us on Instagram & the send a private message. Thanks 👍🏻
A must have in our climate, and it's on my list when I have the readys. Thanks John take care 😀
Absolutely right 👍🏻
Will this be ok to charge my leisure battery for my window cleaning pumps?
Hi John and Mandy. You are the man who knows everything. We are planning to do a tour of the Cheshire ring canals in our van after lockdown. Do you have any experience in using the British waterway toilets and water stations with a water way key. I can’t find any details on the web.
It’s not something we’ve done, but we know people with waterways access and they have no problems at all 👍🏻
I knew you would know. Thank you very much just been for a walk on Werneth Low where you did your drone Vlog. I live in Romiley so spend many a hour up there. Keep safe to you both and Cooper 👍🏻
Nice👍🏻 it’s been years since I was over that way.
I’m just about to install the same device (except in non-isolated type) in a travel trailer. I want to put a switch on the B2B charger so I can easily turn it off - for example if caught in bumper to bumper traffic on a hot day. My interpretation of the manual is that all automatic functions will still be intact when the charger is on. You seem to be under the impression that they might not. Am I correct?
The non isolated in a trailer? How will the chassis grounding work to the vehicle?
If your engine is running the b2b will charge the leisure battery, makes no difference if the engine is idling or your driving along a road. It’s all in the video 👍🏻
@@johnmandy1) The truck and trailer chassis grounds are connected. 2) Alternators cool their selves by way of a fan that spins along with the alternator - so the faster it spins the better it cools. When an alternator gets fried by a dc2dc charger (which definately does happen) it's often caused by heat. So turning the charger off during long periods of idling - especially in hot weather - could save the alternator. Also if the alternator (or other part of the charging system) does fail you always want to turn off as much of the load (AC, stereos, etc) as possible when you notice an issue. It can be the difference between driving to a shop or having to be towed.
Also I might add that my truck came from the factory pre-wired with accessory switches that makes it extremely easy for me to do this.
Great vlog John, Victron is great kit, just wish they did a B2B for a caravan. 👍
Start the tow vehicle with the towbar electrics connected & hey presto it’ll charge your caravan battery 👌🏻
Hi John & Mandy, Thank you for sharing and detail information for the connection and config! I have the same setup but for the 12 | 24 | 15 (car-victron-(battleborn 100)- goalzero 1000). In your set up how can the victron knows to not over withdraw from the car battery?
Very good video John. Thanks sharing. Will be Handy later too uses
Thanks 👍🏻😁
hello mate, is this can be used in older vehicle do you think what year and beyond .thanks
Yes, that’s fine
Great information there John. Thanks so much. I have installed the same after watching your video. However somebody has told me that I have fitted the wrong circuit breaker. I fitted a 30amp like you showed. My Dc to Dc is 12/12 30amp. Should I be fitting a bigger breaker? Thank you.
If you copied me then it’s fine, ignore the other advice.
I was told the same thing? Now I am worried? 🤷♀️
@@juliep4193 I think John knows what he is talking about. 👍
@@Wizardinthewild Yes, I trust John. My problem is... I don’t have a great deal of knowledge when it comes to amps and alternators. I know enough (I think) that the guy who installed my 12/12 30 charger used 10 awg wire, (I am not sure what that size is in UK?)which is wrong, so I am re-wiring it myself now. My 30 amp breaker kept breaking after a few minutes. Which I didn’t understand? I am hoping it is due to a much to small wire? And not the fuse? I will stick to the 30 amp fuse I have and see what happens? Do you have any thoughts? I have a 2019 Ram Promaster and I am “pretty sure” it is a 180 alternator? Thanks for your response. I needed that encouragement to move forward on this. I haven’t been using the charger.
When I say fuse, I really meant breaker, I have the same 30 amp one John is using.
Hello great video. Could you tell me? Could i use a lead acid battery for the starter battery and a lithium as my leisure battery in a combined set up? Thank you.
Yes, that’s exactly how it’s used 👍🏻
Great Video John, thank you. I have been thinking about a B 2 B charger but I am a not very good at electrics and I wasn't sure if I could fit one along side my solar charge unit. Thank you again.
Ah it’s an easy job, 4 wires 👍🏻😁
I was thinking of changing my sterling B2B to the victron just for the app and connect with my mppt and bmv victron products,
Hi John, question about the second charger. I’ve got a victron charger right on the leisure battery. Will it then charge the starter battery trought this DCDC as well? Or is it only (hopefully) one way of charging, and only works when the starter has a higher “charging” voltage.
Best regards, Taeke
Been thinking about the same mod myself. Nice to have someone else test the doubling up on B2B 's. 😎
I’ve now seen several people install 3 b2b’s and it works a treat 😁🤣
Hi John. Really good and detailed video here on the subject of double charging. Need to watch a couple of times to fully absorb but this is such a strength and we are all grateful for you taking time to explain. Cheers Mal and Dave in Stoke
Thanks 👍🏻😁
Will this drain youre starter battery also when the leisure battery is getting empty with this setup?
Cause I want to keep them apart so I can always start my engine
Thanks in advance for youre cristal clear video!
Greetings from the Netherlands
If the vehicle battery is flat will the B2B give main battery power from Leisure Battery or do you need a separate relay.Many thanks.
No, the b2b has inputs and outputs and they can’t be reversed.
Great information as always. Thanks for that. Take care 💙❤️👍
Thanks
Bit of a strange question. So I bought a victron kit. Which has come with the isolated charger. Because my negative on both my batteries go the van metal work can I run both negatives from the charger to the body instead of running a negative from the vehicle battery to the charger?
(Reason being I’ve already routed my positive cable without realising I got the isolated version) 😂