Ronny, Ronny, Ronny.... I was an auto electrician half a life time ago, this topic is right up my alley! Really mate, you have got all this amp hour business mixed up. When you talk about amp hours, you mean how many amps are going into your battery bank on average per hour. Once your vehicle battery is fully charged, the regulator in the alternator will reduce amperage to the battery. Not that you need an alternator upgrade that 85amps wasn’t enough. For instance, I have two 100 ah lithium Fusion batteries that I’ve wired to be plug and play similar to yours. I went with Enerdrive, 40 amp dc2dc charger etc. If done correctly, like mylux, I have the original charging system and battery to ONLY start my vehicle, with a stand alone system briefly mentioned above on the similar theme as yours. The Fusions can only have a maximum of 50 amps of charge at one time, no higher, or the bms (battery management system) will shut off all incoming charge. So therefore, say if your dc2dc was 40a, you could have even had a 45amp alternator and it will still charge at the same rate, no higher - even with your 150amp or what ever alternator. The key is to pull all loads from the lithium system and have no loads from the vehicles battery, except your spot lights and winch. You have muddled up the old school dual battery systems with the modern stand alone dc2dc charging system. Hope that makes sense, it’s late. If it didn’t, I believe it was pointless to get an alternator upgrade. But anyway mate, I enjoy your videos, they’re quite informative, thanks 👍
100% agree, the charge/discharge rate the battery can achieve is the fundamental difference between what you can & can’t do with regard to charging not bigger alternator. That’s why DCS Lithiums are in a league above all others on the market. DCS can charge/discharge at 150amps or more & are 100% designed to do so & are the better quality cylindrical cell which is superior to the prismatic cell design which majority of lithiums utilise because it is cheaper
@@brooksy2093... That’s impressive mate, 150amps, that’ll handle my coffee machine with ease. Just did a quick search mid message on the 100ah, the maximum discharge is 200 amps, maximum charge is 100amp, with recommended
@@Andrew-1974 DCS has been testing underbonnet for over 7yrs in the field. I run the Extreme 80 underbonnet as it is specifically designed for heavy abuse with 1400cca & heavy winching discharge. I run DCS 200ah in the rear which runs everything else including 2k inverter running induction cooker, coffee machine, Travel Buddy & I also run twin ARB compressor directly off rear battery because of my high charge rate ability to recover from my 212amp watercooled alternator.
Not sure this is right. From memory the lights can pull a lot of power, and in his other vehicle his alternator was not producing enough amps to charge the battery and power all the lights etc... I think he also mentioned running the winch at night with all the lights on too. I believe he had more than 80amps of load, hence the upgrade. I might be wrong, but that is my take on it.
Keeping it real. When you have been touring a long time and all the extra stuff you realise gives you no advantage. Keep it simple, keep it light, keep it as inexpensive as practical.
I have exactly the same setup in the back of my hilux here in South Africa except for having a Victron MPPT bolted to the back. It runs off 2 80W panels on canopy roof. I hardly ever need to plug in the alternator cable. Same Victron inverter on top. Unfortunately these days I use it more often inside the house during load shedding. The setup works perfectly and is versatile. Nice seeing you rocking some SA gear like Luna and Frontrunner!
Thanks Ronny, this episode was particularly helpful. I can hardly believe the number of "cheap" lithium batteries out there on the internet - a risky business! Your video helped.
Absolutely right on the battery life of an AGM battery. I install systems that use AGM batteries for backup and they start failing at about 18 months. Some last longer depending on the system and the charging technology.
I switched to a ZeroGoal 3000x setup as my power solution. Inputs: charging while driving, fast charge on DC, solar when stationary. Lithium battery with lots of stamina. Its removable to use out of the car or at home.
Love the Yeti's. Waiting for the 1000X to come out. It'll compete very well with a 100Ah Lifep04 setup and inverter. Only con are their odd use of connectors, but Victron does that as well.
This episode was great - it's really good to see what portable 12v options are there. There's plenty on the market but really useful to see how it's actually used whilst camping and pro's and cons.
Hey Ronny... national Luna has a new product. The green box. Is has built in bc-dc charger. So no need to bolt on items on the outside the box. They great value, I’m going to Install one of those
Great to see you supporting the original supplier not someone doing little mods if any to a product and rebranding as their own as the Kraftwerk brand continues to do
Who is the kraftwerk brand anyways can’t find this anywhere even that kinda tray he sits it in or is it a National Luna box in a custom “kraftwerk” tray perhaps 🤔
Great video. I got a lithium setup recently installed in my Jeep Wrangler. Nothing as fancy as this one but it only cost me $2500, It works beautifully and the investment is already well worth it. No regrets.
I had a big wire mess in the back of my Hilux and I went for a similar solution. I got the black box from national Luna(similar in design but bigger), and my 2 year old 100AH AGM fitted inside np. I already had from the previous setup a BCDC redarc 1240. The setup is cleaner and completely removable. For someone not an expert at tucking away wires this kind of box is a good solution.
Ronnie very cool portable setup but you need to get a DCS 100ah lithium in there as it can receive direct charge & discharge rate is 2nd to none. I run in my 4wd RapidPower 212amp watercooled brushless alternator to 3-200 Argofet feeding DCS Extreme80 underbonnet & DCS 200ah in the rear. Both lithiums can take 200amps direct charge so I can be completely self sufficient for over 4 days running induction cooker, coffee machine & camp site power. Start my 4wd & at idle throw on average 90amps to each battery simultaneously ..... that’s at idle 👌
I run a 40AH Dometic PLB40 lithium battery. Simple but effective to run my 50L fridge and charge up the phone and camera gear. Still not cheap (usually can get them just under $1k in a sale) but an option for anyone who wants an option which is portable and light (about 7kg).
for those who cannot afford stuff from Ronnies sponsors you can get a battery box from aldi for under $50. Granted it's basic, but if you have not much coin left after all the other stuff you have bought it's a good entry point.
had a few of those cheap battery boxes, I've found the wiring quality in them are sometimes substandard. So check every connection and wire often, the Kraftwerks also got a Li Battery ,DC-DC charger and 240v inverter in it.
I set my rig up with dual batteries but recently added a lithium portable pack to the mix along with a solar panel. If I was starting over I would probably not go with a second car battery. It's nice having both but the portable power packs have really come along and just work. Thanks for the video. I wish the best for you and your family!
Thinking of doing the same thing with mine using the companion 70 ah lithium, my only issue will be if the main battery will be enough to run all the accessories but that's something I'm working on atm.
I have 2 agm batteries in my tray , both are going on 4 1/2 years old now.If you look after them you will get more than 2 years out of them.My hilux has a red arc bcdc 40 amp charger in it.I put a 25 amp hour 240 volt charger on them when not in use.
If you leave out the inverter and stick with a basic 12v system the setup will be more affordable and less complex. In the end you just need to keep that Engel running. Cheers Ronny.
Great choice and explanation with that battery box setup, It's a perfect solution to those of us that don't have the space for a permanent dual battery setup. Lithium all the way!
Lithium changes the need for solar panels so another cost implication depending on your needs. Another great vid. And we’ll done to the Perf 4wd community! 👌🏿
Thanks Ronny, nice electrical setup. I may consider this for my vehicle. I was looking for something more simple and space saving. Hopefully they ship across to Sydney.
For what you get in terms of portability and weight etc really good price, in terms of affordable, when you consider everything, the energy, stuffing around, pro's etc spot on.. I'll be getting this setup for my new build...
I have a Longrange tank in my Hilux as well, After filling up I reset the km on trip 1 and the average km/L, the when the tank gets low you can do the math and figure out how much you have used, its accurate to within about 10km
Dude I have been mulling over the way to do this exact project as I have 2 different vehicles I take and wanted a modular way to do this... this helped my decision making for sure
Hey Ronny, I see a problem there is no massive displays and exposed wiring set on carpeted marine ply taking up valuable room and how good sir are you going to run an induction cooker, 4 group head expresso machine and microwave on that simple sensible system? also does not seem expensive or complicated enough. Nice work bud
2019 Tacoma with a very similar setup. 100Ah modular power source charged with solar or stock truck inverter. Only difference is for my rear and side facing roof rack lights I use an inline rf controller and key fob from Super Bright Leds. Super cheap and easy to install mod that allows me to turn on and off lights w/o having to open up anything or be in the truck (works up to 150ft away). Adds a bit of security too with strobe modes (s.o.s)
My ATG lithium 100ah bonza box is similar, just slim line and $999. Added a redarc 1225D dcdc charger on sale for $420 Wiring cost me about $250 Hardkorr 200 watt solar blanket $350 2 grand got me 100ah lithium box with all the USB, cig, and Anderson plugs I need for my set up plus a good quality charger and all the solar I need to run my fridge and basic 12v gear almost indefinitely.
Hey mate, how's your bonza box going? I got one couple months back love it so far. Had a question if you know, I was planning on running a 170w solar panel straight into the box no dcdc charger because it has a inbuilt mppt. Will this work well you think? I just can't be bothered wiring in a dcdc charger and wires in car and what not. Cheers 🤙🏽
Hey mate, how's your bonza box going? I got one couple months back love it so far. Had a question if you know, I was planning on running a 170w solar panel straight into the box no dcdc charger because it has a inbuilt mppt. Will this work well you think? I just can't be bothered wiring in a dcdc charger and wires in car and what not. Cheers 🤙🏽
1 thing to note: if you are intending to 240mains vac devices on the unit make sure you have the right number of batteries.. you might also want to consider a 24 volt dc systems as sometimes charge controllers run excessively hot when supplying charging to a batt setup
I run a set up like this through need rather than want. I can't get a second battery to the engine bay. I have a 130 AGM in an Aldi battery box which I have modified with an anderson plug to run the fridge and for charging. It is super flexible though as you say, when I am using the fridge for other things like the kids soccer get togethers or parties I just throw it next to,the fridge and its sell sufficient. I also don't run any drawers or anything as I mainly use the car for family duties so being able to take it out of the car is handy. I am currently testing out using portable induction cook top instead of gas which is working well so far.
Brilliant series Ronny, I'm in Canada and have recommended your channel to so many people because of the Luxy build. Keeping it simple is KEY! Getting out and having the adventure is what you remember, not the details of the equipment you had, or the keeping up with the Jones' stuff. Thanks for keeping it real and not trying to up sell stuff that is'nt needed to us regular folks. Hat's off mate
Great video mate. That Lux is turning out great. Regarding the fridge, I run the Dometic CD-30 30L Drawer fridge and can stay out for a week on solo with food and drinks, Just as a fridge I can keep stuff frozen from home for 3-4 days, probably longer if I turned it down more. For my Pajero that fridge works perfect because it fits under my custom built shelf that doubles as a bed and still allows a single drawer for storage on the other side.
Im all for lithium, which works a treat in my4Wd but don’t get the fascination of a Ute, then stuffing it with a convoluted electrical system. Fridge etc. A wagon would accommodate this much better AND avoid the elements plus a neater system. Can’t believe it only has a 85 alternator. Mine comes standard with a 240...Steve
Just because you can doesn’t mean you should... Discharging your lithium to 80, 90 or even 95% before recharging your still going to do significant damage just like you would to an AGM. Keep ya battery’s charged for longest possible life pep’s 😎👍🏼 Wish the market had more complete power box options ⚡️⚡️⚡️ Great video mate 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Actually keeping your lithium batteries fully charged is bad for their life too. For longest life you want to keep them at around 50-70%. If you charge to 100%, then you should use as quickly as possible. Anyway, I don’t actually bother monkeying about like that with lithium batteries, because life is too short.
@@theseb1979 don’t get confused between Li-Ion and LiFePO4. Again, refer to manufacturers instructions. Charging to 100% can actually be helpful as it is at the later stages of charging that the BMS balances the cells.
I use a Ark Powerpak with a 130AH dry cell, 130w folding solar panel and a 600w inverter when i go away on trips. When parked up I only need to run my 60L Camec fridge and led lights during night time, and yeah the powerpak is a tad heavy but this setup not only being mobile it's basic and practical that suits my needs.
God damn 2 grand... I have an Engel box cost me $300 on special with $200 in wiring... keeps my fridge cold all day and can have a light on around camp..
Gold Fools not sure I can have a look tho, but it’s one I use to use with a 12v ciggy lighter adaptor so I guess if I add in that it’s another $200 for the batter or however much I bought it for years back
AGM batteries used to be very expensive back in the day. Lithium will eventually come down, but even with current prices, if using your setup regularly, it's a solid investment.
hey Ronny, as an alternate approach to 12v power how about a look at the current range of battery box's out there that connect to solar, including use of lithium - can these be linked in with conventional lead acid batteries. cheers
I have 4 truck 1100cca Bosch batteries in the back. It runs the 130ltr fridge, Camp lights, fan and soon a ac for the roof top tent. Charges with two 250w solar panels. Had 5 days without sun and the fridge never ran out. More then enough.
Not putting dual batteries under bonnet. you still need to run a wire to the rear. with dual Lithium at the front (yes for cranking) you get a lot of additional space saving in the rear with only a few options unavailable as a portable unit. Replacing the original Toyota battery is a bonus as it is not particularly good for anything but cranking.
National luna green box has 25 Amp Dc/DC charger built in and Mppt solar controller. So no need to bolt any other components on. It's also lithium compliant. That's the way to go. Also if you get a lithium battery with built in Bluetooth you don't need an additional add on to monitor the battery. Greenbox and bluenova battery(with Bluetooth) and your power needs are sorted.
My agm 130a/hrs been layed on its side and drained down to 10.1v once. 5years still going strong. Projecta dc dc charger. Under 500bucks for both back then.
The NL green box is solar ready (but not portable), and the NL black box is not (but portable). Is that right? Instead of mounting the NL battery monitor you used that shunt, right? Is it neccessary to upgrade the alternator if I want to use the NL green box with an 100Ah LFP battery?
Nice video Ronny. Wonder whether anyone owns the patent for the battery box. This looks like what I got from National Luna except that the National Luna has a Green Box that has 25A DC-DC charger and solar charging built in. It is a recent upgrade to their line of portable battery boxes. They also have another version exactly like what you have in your video. I was surprised to see it referred to as Kraftworks battery box. I have a set up almost like what you have so your video reminds me of what I have done with my Lux. Keep the mods and videos coming.....
Klarmann keeps modifying equipment and sticking his name on it. This is a modified Luna box. He’s down similar with 4xOverland and stuck a Kraftwerk badge straight on a redvision box. I’m not sure how long company’s will put up with this.
Hi Ronny, What do you think about something like "Jackery explorer 1000"? It has 1002Wh. Has DC input and Anderson input with multiple outputs. Jackery can seems to be charged by the regular 12v outlet (without wiring to the starter battery). Plus has optional solar panel. Would it be a good choice? TIA.
The lid keeps the rain out just like a canopy would. You open to get something out and then close it again. If you leave anything open the elements will get in there no matter if canopy or rear barn doors.
hard to tell from the photo's but i hope that main switch/circuit breaker is a DC specific circuit breaker and not an AC circuit breaker. If it's AC it's not designed for the ARC'ing from DC current, it will wear down prematurely, and worst case i've seen on a mine site truck, it does not break, and sets on fire. Have literally seen the solder melt out from a circuit breaker used on DC
Hi Ronny, always good to watch your vids and some ideas for my own hilux. But I would be curios of your thoughts regarding the limited space inside the cab to add any additional switches with only 4 empty spaces available. I resolved this issue by locating the UHF head unit in behind the glove box and installing an overhead console with provided plenty of space for some additional switches and power outlets.
I always prefer a dual Battery where you can take the second battery with you for camping, beach etc etc. That is what I have installed into then boot of mine.
@Rony with the Mods you’ve done on the Hilux.. to what extent does the Vehicle Manufacture Warranty apply or once you go the Mods route that is invalid right away..? Keep up the good work..
With what hes done, no longer under warranty for the electrics that's for damned sure, nor does the vehicle any longer have an AMPCAP rating (that goes as soon as you bolt on anything to any vehicle - like a bullbar) which is why getting insurance for a true offroad overlander can be difficult.
Lithium has it's benefits re power/weight, however I disagree with your comment that AGMs get 3 or so years. Charged properly and kept to around 25% depth of discharge will get far more life. I got 10 years out of my last replacement. My caravan 130 AH is now 5 years old, the 4by 3 years old. AGMs and even Lithium life span is relative to how the are charged and discharged and how often.
The Illy brand espresso maker will run off 800 watts. I pull espressos of my camping power solution regularly. It's not as good coffee as nespresso but it is good enough.
Hi Ronny, any reason why you did not purchase the National Luna Green Battery box . It has the dcdc already built in and is probably about $300-$400 cheaper?
The faster charge rate alone is a big advantage. Say your battery is getting low while camping and you don't have a full day of sun, just a small amount would get your charge up compared to needing at least half a day of sun for an AGM.
Hello there! I'm just curious, what is the reason why the fridge is always on the left side of the vehicle? BTW I love your content, I'm an aspiring overlander here in the Philippines.
Hey mate nothing on the Perthpro website about the actual powerbox and that particular link says error! Have they stopped producing the powerbox or out of stock ? Can’t find info anywhere
Ronny, Ronny, Ronny.... I was an auto electrician half a life time ago, this topic is right up my alley! Really mate, you have got all this amp hour business mixed up. When you talk about amp hours, you mean how many amps are going into your battery bank on average per hour. Once your vehicle battery is fully charged, the regulator in the alternator will reduce amperage to the battery. Not that you need an alternator upgrade that 85amps wasn’t enough. For instance, I have two 100 ah lithium Fusion batteries that I’ve wired to be plug and play similar to yours. I went with Enerdrive, 40 amp dc2dc charger etc. If done correctly, like mylux, I have the original charging system and battery to ONLY start my vehicle, with a stand alone system briefly mentioned above on the similar theme as yours. The Fusions can only have a maximum of 50 amps of charge at one time, no higher, or the bms (battery management system) will shut off all incoming charge. So therefore, say if your dc2dc was 40a, you could have even had a 45amp alternator and it will still charge at the same rate, no higher - even with your 150amp or what ever alternator. The key is to pull all loads from the lithium system and have no loads from the vehicles battery, except your spot lights and winch. You have muddled up the old school dual battery systems with the modern stand alone dc2dc charging system. Hope that makes sense, it’s late. If it didn’t, I believe it was pointless to get an alternator upgrade.
But anyway mate, I enjoy your videos, they’re quite informative, thanks 👍
100% agree, the charge/discharge rate the battery can achieve is the fundamental difference between what you can & can’t do with regard to charging not bigger alternator. That’s why DCS Lithiums are in a league above all others on the market. DCS can charge/discharge at 150amps or more & are 100% designed to do so & are the better quality cylindrical cell which is superior to the prismatic cell design which majority of lithiums utilise because it is cheaper
@@brooksy2093... That’s impressive mate, 150amps, that’ll handle my coffee machine with ease. Just did a quick search mid message on the 100ah, the maximum discharge is 200 amps, maximum charge is 100amp, with recommended
@@Andrew-1974 DCS has been testing underbonnet for over 7yrs in the field. I run the Extreme 80 underbonnet as it is specifically designed for heavy abuse with 1400cca & heavy winching discharge. I run DCS 200ah in the rear which runs everything else including 2k inverter running induction cooker, coffee machine, Travel Buddy & I also run twin ARB compressor directly off rear battery because of my high charge rate ability to recover from my 212amp watercooled alternator.
@@brooksy2093 👍
Not sure this is right. From memory the lights can pull a lot of power, and in his other vehicle his alternator was not producing enough amps to charge the battery and power all the lights etc... I think he also mentioned running the winch at night with all the lights on too. I believe he had more than 80amps of load, hence the upgrade. I might be wrong, but that is my take on it.
Keeping it real. When you have been touring a long time and all the extra stuff you realise gives you no advantage.
Keep it simple, keep it light, keep it as inexpensive as practical.
I have exactly the same setup in the back of my hilux here in South Africa except for having a Victron MPPT bolted to the back. It runs off 2 80W panels on canopy roof. I hardly ever need to plug in the alternator cable. Same Victron inverter on top. Unfortunately these days I use it more often inside the house during load shedding. The setup works perfectly and is versatile. Nice seeing you rocking some SA gear like Luna and Frontrunner!
Love the versatility of this, would be ideal for using in multiple cars
Thanks Ronny, this episode was particularly helpful. I can hardly believe the number of "cheap" lithium batteries out there on the internet - a risky business! Your video helped.
Absolutely right on the battery life of an AGM battery. I install systems that use AGM batteries for backup and they start failing at about 18 months. Some last longer depending on the system and the charging technology.
I switched to a ZeroGoal 3000x setup as my power solution. Inputs: charging while driving, fast charge on DC, solar when stationary. Lithium battery with lots of stamina. Its removable to use out of the car or at home.
Love the Yeti's. Waiting for the 1000X to come out. It'll compete very well with a 100Ah Lifep04 setup and inverter. Only con are their odd use of connectors, but Victron does that as well.
This episode was great - it's really good to see what portable 12v options are there. There's plenty on the market but really useful to see how it's actually used whilst camping and pro's and cons.
Hey Ronny... national Luna has a new product. The green box. Is has built in bc-dc charger. So no need to bolt on items on the outside the box. They great value, I’m going to Install one of those
Great to see you supporting the original supplier not someone doing little mods if any to a product and rebranding as their own as the Kraftwerk brand continues to do
Who is the kraftwerk brand anyways can’t find this anywhere even that kinda tray he sits it in or is it a National Luna box in a custom “kraftwerk” tray perhaps 🤔
Great video. I got a lithium setup recently installed in my Jeep Wrangler. Nothing as fancy as this one but it only cost me $2500, It works beautifully and the investment is already well worth it. No regrets.
I had a big wire mess in the back of my Hilux and I went for a similar solution. I got the black box from national Luna(similar in design but bigger), and my 2 year old 100AH AGM fitted inside np. I already had from the previous setup a BCDC redarc 1240. The setup is cleaner and completely removable.
For someone not an expert at tucking away wires this kind of box is a good solution.
Prayers are up for the folks in NSW. That flooding looks really bad.
Great Video Ronny! =)
its mostly media hype.
Prayers. i.e. you’re hoping things will work out by saying some words....nice.....I pray that you’ll understand that prayer is a load of shit.
Ronnie very cool portable setup but you need to get a DCS 100ah lithium in there as it can receive direct charge & discharge rate is 2nd to none.
I run in my 4wd RapidPower 212amp watercooled brushless alternator to 3-200 Argofet feeding DCS Extreme80 underbonnet & DCS 200ah in the rear. Both lithiums can take 200amps direct charge so I can be completely self sufficient for over 4 days running induction cooker, coffee machine & camp site power. Start my 4wd & at idle throw on average 90amps to each battery simultaneously ..... that’s at idle 👌
I run a 40AH Dometic PLB40 lithium battery. Simple but effective to run my 50L fridge and charge up the phone and camera gear. Still not cheap (usually can get them just under $1k in a sale) but an option for anyone who wants an option which is portable and light (about 7kg).
for those who cannot afford stuff from Ronnies sponsors you can get a battery box from aldi for under $50. Granted it's basic, but if you have not much coin left after all the other stuff you have bought it's a good entry point.
had a few of those cheap battery boxes, I've found the wiring quality in them are sometimes substandard.
So check every connection and wire often,
the Kraftwerks also got a Li Battery ,DC-DC charger and 240v inverter in it.
I set my rig up with dual batteries but recently added a lithium portable pack to the mix along with a solar panel. If I was starting over I would probably not go with a second car battery. It's nice having both but the portable power packs have really come along and just work. Thanks for the video. I wish the best for you and your family!
Thinking of doing the same thing with mine using the companion 70 ah lithium, my only issue will be if the main battery will be enough to run all the accessories but that's something I'm working on atm.
it's actually pretty amazing to see you make very similar decisions that I just made with my 2021 Tacoma build in the US. Build confidence +100
Nothing better than the basic camping. Love the good basic camping. Love the content mate
I have 2 agm batteries in my tray , both are going on 4 1/2 years old now.If you look after them you will get more than 2 years out of them.My hilux has a red arc bcdc 40 amp charger in it.I put a 25 amp hour 240 volt charger on them when not in use.
If you leave out the inverter and stick with a basic 12v system the setup will be more affordable and less complex. In the end you just need to keep that Engel running. Cheers Ronny.
Great choice and explanation with that battery box setup, It's a perfect solution to those of us that don't have the space for a permanent dual battery setup. Lithium all the way!
15:24 'Cheers', made me smile.
Thanks!
Bloody great video Ronny! Really common sense stuff & super practical with its portability! Well done
Lithium changes the need for solar panels so another cost implication depending on your needs. Another great vid. And we’ll done to the Perf 4wd community! 👌🏿
Thanks Ronny, nice electrical setup. I may consider this for my vehicle. I was looking for something more simple and space saving. Hopefully they ship across to Sydney.
For what you get in terms of portability and weight etc really good price, in terms of affordable, when you consider everything, the energy, stuffing around, pro's etc spot on.. I'll be getting this setup for my new build...
I have a Longrange tank in my Hilux as well, After filling up I reset the km on trip 1 and the average km/L, the when the tank gets low you can do the math and figure out how much you have used, its accurate to within about 10km
Dude I have been mulling over the way to do this exact project as I have 2 different vehicles I take and wanted a modular way to do this... this helped my decision making for sure
Loving the series. Just bought a new Nissan and this has great advice for reasonable priced decent gear. Thanks guys.
Hey Ronny, I see a problem there is no massive displays and exposed wiring set on carpeted marine ply taking up valuable room and how good sir are you going to run an induction cooker, 4 group head expresso machine and microwave on that simple sensible system? also does not seem expensive or complicated enough. Nice work bud
😂😂
2019 Tacoma with a very similar setup. 100Ah modular power source charged with solar or stock truck inverter. Only difference is for my rear and side facing roof rack lights I use an inline rf controller and key fob from Super Bright Leds. Super cheap and easy to install mod that allows me to turn on and off lights w/o having to open up anything or be in the truck (works up to 150ft away). Adds a bit of security too with strobe modes (s.o.s)
My ATG lithium 100ah bonza box is similar, just slim line and $999.
Added a redarc 1225D dcdc charger on sale for $420
Wiring cost me about $250
Hardkorr 200 watt solar blanket $350
2 grand got me 100ah lithium box with all the USB, cig, and Anderson plugs I need for my set up plus a good quality charger and all the solar I need to run my fridge and basic 12v gear almost indefinitely.
Hey mate, how's your bonza box going? I got one couple months back love it so far. Had a question if you know, I was planning on running a 170w solar panel straight into the box no dcdc charger because it has a inbuilt mppt. Will this work well you think? I just can't be bothered wiring in a dcdc charger and wires in car and what not. Cheers 🤙🏽
Hey mate, how's your bonza box going? I got one couple months back love it so far. Had a question if you know, I was planning on running a 170w solar panel straight into the box no dcdc charger because it has a inbuilt mppt. Will this work well you think? I just can't be bothered wiring in a dcdc charger and wires in car and what not. Cheers 🤙🏽
1 thing to note: if you are intending to 240mains vac devices on the unit make sure you have the right number of batteries..
you might also want to consider a 24 volt dc systems as sometimes charge controllers run excessively hot when supplying charging to a batt setup
I run a set up like this through need rather than want. I can't get a second battery to the engine bay. I have a 130 AGM in an Aldi battery box which I have modified with an anderson plug to run the fridge and for charging. It is super flexible though as you say, when I am using the fridge for other things like the kids soccer get togethers or parties I just throw it next to,the fridge and its sell sufficient.
I also don't run any drawers or anything as I mainly use the car for family duties so being able to take it out of the car is handy.
I am currently testing out using portable induction cook top instead of gas which is working well so far.
Brilliant series Ronny, I'm in Canada and have recommended your channel to so many people because of the Luxy build. Keeping it simple is KEY!
Getting out and having the adventure is what you remember, not the details of the equipment you had, or the keeping up with the Jones' stuff. Thanks for keeping it real and not trying to up sell stuff that is'nt needed to us regular folks. Hat's off mate
Really enjoying this build series. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience.
Nice setup. Great removable system. Especially for the weekend warrior that works his truck from Monday-Friday
Great video mate. That Lux is turning out great. Regarding the fridge, I run the Dometic CD-30 30L Drawer fridge and can stay out for a week on solo with food and drinks, Just as a fridge I can keep stuff frozen from home for 3-4 days, probably longer if I turned it down more. For my Pajero that fridge works perfect because it fits under my custom built shelf that doubles as a bed and still allows a single drawer for storage on the other side.
Im all for lithium, which works a treat in my4Wd but don’t get the fascination of a Ute, then stuffing it with a convoluted electrical system. Fridge etc. A wagon would accommodate this much better AND avoid the elements plus a neater system.
Can’t believe it only has a 85 alternator. Mine comes standard with a 240...Steve
Just because you can doesn’t mean you should...
Discharging your lithium to 80, 90 or even 95% before recharging your still going to do significant damage just like you would to an AGM. Keep ya battery’s charged for longest possible life pep’s 😎👍🏼
Wish the market had more complete power box options ⚡️⚡️⚡️
Great video mate 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Amptron specifies >2000 cycles with 100% DoD. Wouldn’t call that damage. Sure you can get greater cycle counts discharging to 80%
Actually keeping your lithium batteries fully charged is bad for their life too. For longest life you want to keep them at around 50-70%. If you charge to 100%, then you should use as quickly as possible. Anyway, I don’t actually bother monkeying about like that with lithium batteries, because life is too short.
@@theseb1979 don’t get confused between Li-Ion and LiFePO4. Again, refer to manufacturers instructions. Charging to 100% can actually be helpful as it is at the later stages of charging that the BMS balances the cells.
I use a Ark Powerpak with a 130AH dry cell, 130w folding solar panel and a 600w inverter when i go away on trips. When parked up I only need to run my 60L Camec fridge and led lights during night time, and yeah the powerpak is a tad heavy but this setup not only being mobile it's basic and practical that suits my needs.
$2500 including the battery is definitely good value for money, would not have expected a lithium setup to be that sort of price
God damn 2 grand... I have an Engel box cost me $300 on special with $200 in wiring... keeps my fridge cold all day and can have a light on around camp..
What’s the battery in an Engel box?
Sounds to cheap.
are you running the fridge off the starter battery?
Gold Fools not sure I can have a look tho, but it’s one I use to use with a 12v ciggy lighter adaptor so I guess if I add in that it’s another $200 for the batter or however much I bought it for years back
Predecessor full set up for about 4-5 years now
That fact you can chuck it in your next car is a massive bonus
AGM batteries used to be very expensive back in the day. Lithium will eventually come down, but even with current prices, if using your setup regularly, it's a solid investment.
hey Ronny, as an alternate approach to 12v power how about a look at the current range of battery box's out there that connect to solar, including use of lithium - can these be linked in with conventional lead acid batteries. cheers
Great video. Really cool to see a non-traditional 12v setup. I would love to do something like this in my Tacoma.
That “Game Changing” got me giggling 🤭
I have 4 truck 1100cca Bosch batteries in the back. It runs the 130ltr fridge, Camp lights, fan and soon a ac for the roof top tent. Charges with two 250w solar panels. Had 5 days without sun and the fridge never ran out. More then enough.
Not putting dual batteries under bonnet. you still need to run a wire to the rear. with dual Lithium at the front (yes for cranking) you get a lot of additional space saving in the rear with only a few options unavailable as a portable unit. Replacing the original Toyota battery is a bonus as it is not particularly good for anything but cranking.
Great series! Thanks for giving me a bit of inspiration for the buildout of my new ute! Just waiting on a canopy before I can start...
I have been thinking of a similar setup. We have a range of Luna boxes. The green one is solar ready and don't need extra controller.
National luna green box has 25 Amp Dc/DC charger built in and Mppt solar controller. So no need to bolt any other components on. It's also lithium compliant. That's the way to go. Also if you get a lithium battery with built in Bluetooth you don't need an additional add on to monitor the battery. Greenbox and bluenova battery(with Bluetooth) and your power needs are sorted.
Great setup Ronnie I did a similar thing with the dometic PLB40 lithium battery pack as it only runs the fridge it does everything I need
Hi Ronny, how did the fridge handle the heat when the tub lid and tailgate was shut on you trip?
im totally in love with your hilux bro, and this is coming from a fellow hilux owner..
Can’t help but wonder why dual cabs are so expensive. It seems everything needs to be upgraded to use the vehicle as they are intended
My agm 130a/hrs been layed on its side and drained down to 10.1v once. 5years still going strong. Projecta dc dc charger. Under 500bucks for both back then.
Ronny, what brand lights are these red LED lights in your truck. Where do you get these from here in Australia? Thank you
Those Luna/Klarmann boxes are great. They will fit a 125ah Enerdrive quite easily.
I don’t understand how it can identify as a Klarmann box when he has done nothing to it.
I guess he didn’t change them much but they did wire in the BCDC1225 and added additional inputs on the back of the box.
Hey Ronny, when is the bar and suspension video coming, nervous about it already!
Lithium is definitely the way to go if you are using your rig all the time. Big cost upfront but big advantages as well.
Hi Ronny, interested in why you chose your battery box over the ITECH1000P I've seen one of your cameramen use. Cheers!
Hey Ronny - how does the Lux go with towing? Liking the build series mate, the ute is coming together in a neat practical package
The NL green box is solar ready (but not portable), and the NL black box is not (but portable). Is that right? Instead of mounting the NL battery monitor you used that shunt, right? Is it neccessary to upgrade the alternator if I want to use the NL green box with an 100Ah LFP battery?
Do you have more details of the alternator, like brand?
Yes please can you give us some more info on the one you put in !!!
Cheers Ronnie 🍻🍻🍻
Is there anywhere where you explain the mounting method used for the battery box and fridge?
Nice and simple setup but what about going with the portable solar generators ? all in one (no specific brand)
Nice video Ronny. Wonder whether anyone owns the patent for the battery box. This looks like what I got from National Luna except that the National Luna has a Green Box that has 25A DC-DC charger and solar charging built in. It is a recent upgrade to their line of portable battery boxes. They also have another version exactly like what you have in your video. I was surprised to see it referred to as Kraftworks battery box.
I have a set up almost like what you have so your video reminds me of what I have done with my Lux. Keep the mods and videos coming.....
Klarmann keeps modifying equipment and sticking his name on it. This is a modified Luna box. He’s down similar with 4xOverland and stuck a Kraftwerk badge straight on a redvision box.
I’m not sure how long company’s will put up with this.
@@Dollarstodust I think any business only needs to change a product by 10%, and claim it?
Hi Ronny, What do you think about something like "Jackery explorer 1000"? It has 1002Wh. Has DC input and Anderson input with multiple outputs. Jackery can seems to be charged by the regular 12v outlet (without wiring to the starter battery). Plus has optional solar panel. Would it be a good choice? TIA.
I’d question the longevity of the inverter and shunt in that environment. What happens when you want something from your fridge and it’s pissing rain?
The lid keeps the rain out just like a canopy would. You open to get something out and then close it again. If you leave anything open the elements will get in there no matter if canopy or rear barn doors.
Ive order my load lid for my my21 Dmax. Really excited about it and the challenge setting it up different from my old full canopy set up.
hard to tell from the photo's but i hope that main switch/circuit breaker is a DC specific circuit breaker and not an AC circuit breaker. If it's AC it's not designed for the ARC'ing from DC current, it will wear down prematurely, and worst case i've seen on a mine site truck, it does not break, and sets on fire. Have literally seen the solder melt out from a circuit breaker used on DC
17:35 alternator direct to the battery - did I miss the DC-DC piece?
Could you put up the brand of alternator please? Couldn't make out the company you said you got it from. Cheers
Hi Ronny, always good to watch your vids and some ideas for my own hilux. But I would be curios of your thoughts regarding the limited space inside the cab to add any additional switches with only 4 empty spaces available. I resolved this issue by locating the UHF head unit in behind the glove box and installing an overhead console with provided plenty of space for some additional switches and power outlets.
Great video - that looks like a very practical electric solution from Klarmann.
Any thoughts on changing out the start battery to lithium? Could be some weight saving and increase in power if required.
Watch Stefan Fischer's channel, he's done just that
I’d question how well they would handle the heat in a place like the Pilbara or Kimberly in the Hot wet season
Nice one Rhonda 👌
Been running a 'similar' 105Ah AGM system in my '18 Wildtrak for 3yrs now, faultless and indeed affordable 👌
Good job ronny. Like how you mentioned the gas struts. Look into a mob called single strut co. I have one and it’s mint !
What are those boxes in the corner of the tub that switch all the lights etc?
I always prefer a dual Battery where you can take the second battery with you for camping, beach etc etc. That is what I have installed into then boot of mine.
@Rony with the Mods you’ve done on the Hilux.. to what extent does the Vehicle Manufacture Warranty apply or once you go the Mods route that is invalid right away..? Keep up the good work..
With what hes done, no longer under warranty for the electrics that's for damned sure, nor does the vehicle any longer have an AMPCAP rating (that goes as soon as you bolt on anything to any vehicle - like a bullbar) which is why getting insurance for a true offroad overlander can be difficult.
Lithium has it's benefits re power/weight, however I disagree with your comment that AGMs get 3 or so years. Charged properly and kept to around 25% depth of discharge will get far more life. I got 10 years out of my last replacement. My caravan 130 AH is now 5 years old, the 4by 3 years old. AGMs and even Lithium life span is relative to how the are charged and discharged and how often.
The Illy brand espresso maker will run off 800 watts. I pull espressos of my camping power solution regularly. It's not as good coffee as nespresso but it is good enough.
Love the videos.. Check out the Nomad PDU less than 1K without all the bells and whistles. For basic 12v does the job nicely. Aussie made also
Loved it Ronny very informative
Hi Ronny, any reason why you did not purchase the National Luna Green Battery box . It has the dcdc already built in and is probably about $300-$400 cheaper?
Are the Anderson plugs ready to use or does it require modification
The faster charge rate alone is a big advantage. Say your battery is getting low while camping and you don't have a full day of sun, just a small amount would get your charge up compared to needing at least half a day of sun for an AGM.
Limited by the dcdc charger in this case. An AGM battery will charge just as fast if the current limited by a charger.
@Jake warren Ah my bad I wasn't aware of that. I've got the same redarc dcdc charger shown in this video.
I like the video's Ronny.
I realy like you Land cruiser setup.
& im looking forward to see how the Lux is gonna be like in a Year.
Thoughts on itech world lithium battery’s ?
Hello there! I'm just curious, what is the reason why the fridge is always on the left side of the vehicle? BTW I love your content, I'm an aspiring overlander here in the Philippines.
Total un-professional guess.. weight distribution.. driver on the right side/ fridge on the left?🤔
Not related to this video. But curious if you’ll be doing a review of the new tires soon. And how they compare to the A/T tires you’ve had before .
Legend as usual
Can’t wait to see the next one 💪
Ronny Dahl. A national monument. Love it
What brand kind of lights do you use for reverse and.behind grill I’m after some for sides of my luck and rear
Hey Ronny, that tub lid of yours doesn’t seem to sit straight when open. Is that right or is it just the way it was filmed?
What do you think of the DOMETIC PLB40 ?
Hey mate nothing on the Perthpro website about the actual powerbox and that particular link says error! Have they stopped producing the powerbox or out of stock ? Can’t find info anywhere