Super EASY 12V Camper Van ELECTRICS - How To

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  • Опубліковано 11 жов 2017
  • Super EASY 12V Camper Van ELECTRICS. In this video I take you through my 12v camper van setup that is easy and simple. The 12v electrics in a camper van don't have to be difficult, follow my how to so you can understand how to streamline your setup.
    PARTS:
    CTEK - www.roadpro.co.uk/product/02d...
    Battery - www.alpha-batteries.co.uk/12v-...
    Inverter - edecoa pure sine wave inverters
    Control Panel - Contact Rayne Automotive
    Music: RŮDE - Gemini
    Camera Kit Used Throughout My Series:
    Panasonic GH4
    Panasonic GH5
    Panasonic LUMIX G Leica DG Summilux 15mm f/1.7
    Olympus M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 45 mm 1:1.8
    DJI Phantom 4 Pro +
    I still don't appreciate what we have in our own country, over the next year I will show the best bits of Britain in my camper while also stretching a bit further a field to give some highlights of the most beautiful parts of Europe. Everyone loves a eurotrip!
    I have started a van conversion so that me and my girlfriend can travel around the UK, Europe and maybe even maybe further afield. Living in a van can be so much fun and if you want to have as much fun as us then follow my how to videos and travel vlogs to living the vanlife.
    Please like share and subscribe as this will be a series of videos showing the full transformation, use and enjoyment of my campervan conversion!
    For more info about what I am up to subscribe to my channel! Get on board with my VanLogs and keep up to date with all my progress.
    Website: www.hugh-tube.com
    Instagram: hughtubevlog
    Facebook: hughtubevlog

КОМЕНТАРІ • 616

  • @MrJkca
    @MrJkca 6 років тому +14

    Watched this with my dad who started as an electrician at 16, he's over 50 now and says it's all good. That crimping kit gave me nightmares about when i used to work with him as an apprentice :P

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому +1

      Cheers Jack, glad to get an all clear from a experienced sparky. The crimping kit has been giving me nightmares at times haha

    • @Ruffest
      @Ruffest 3 роки тому

      😂 😂 Yeah because you wire ground up with brown.

  • @Biostall
    @Biostall 4 роки тому +3

    My 12v kit from Rayne Automotive just arrived and, as a complete novice to electrics, it's been easy to setup, and a lot fun as learning lots along the way. Some bits were unclear (like what the earth block does and where to put it) but your video has cleared lots up. Just seeing the lights light up for the first time earlier felt so good. Cheers!

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  4 роки тому

      just make sure everything is fused where needed and grounded

  • @robaire.b
    @robaire.b 6 років тому +2

    I have now installed a CTEK in my Boxer van (same as Ducato) - Works really well. The leisure batteries (2x AGM 110Ah) are kept topped up by the solar panels. The CTEK also diverts solar to the start battery to keep that charged. I connected the (thin) black wire to negative/earth and that changes the charge profile to suit the requirements of AGMs. I've yet to determine whether I have a smart alternator (2015 Peugeot Boxer) and need to do something with the thin red wire which apparently needs to connect to the ignition circuit though the instructions are not very clear on this and how to do it. Excellent unit and has proper Mppt solar charge control as well as multi-stage DC to DC charging - So far very impressed

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому

      you need a piggyback fuse holder and choose the right size for a fuse you can use but all sounds great so far!

  • @NothusDeusVagus
    @NothusDeusVagus 4 роки тому +4

    Thankyou. A very good presentation, explaning clearly what you've done, why and how. You clearly you know where to "splash-out"... some might call it "investing" wisely.

  • @jonahdowns3661
    @jonahdowns3661 5 років тому +1

    Probably the easiest explained video ive seen out there on electricity! Just moved out of my house and am starting my van. Videos like this go a long way!

  • @tubeguinness
    @tubeguinness 3 роки тому +2

    Dude! Struggling with my Split charger and Solar setup and thinking "there must be a device that manages both" Google failed me, then came across this video with such a great explaination of the CTEK. Ordered and problem solved. Cheers fella.

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  2 роки тому

      Glad I could help Gavin

  • @RoadRunnerMeep
    @RoadRunnerMeep 5 років тому

    Very neat and tidy setup. The more I watch these videos the more I want to push forward on my desire. I've always been interested in doing this and it suits my life

  • @thebuckeyecampers785
    @thebuckeyecampers785 6 років тому +9

    Thanks for sharing the 12 volt video,Eric from The Buckeye Campers and always remember that home is where you park it !!!!!!!

  • @prinzejamir7112
    @prinzejamir7112 5 років тому +5

    Thanks 4 making it simple!! U Rocked!

  • @OwenJackson
    @OwenJackson 5 років тому +4

    recently discovered your channel with aspirations of doing a van build in the future. great work man!! still think 'hugh tube' is one of the best channel names. awesome dude

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  5 років тому +1

      haha cheers Owen

    • @SamSmolko
      @SamSmolko 5 років тому

      Agreed! So clever!

  • @mexicanamericansinthedenve6768
    @mexicanamericansinthedenve6768 4 роки тому

    Dude you couldn’t explain this so much better than the last people I’ve been watching hell yeah thumbs up for sure

  • @ProjectAmber
    @ProjectAmber 5 років тому

    Great video dude, very informative. Im just researching other simpler methods of charging systems for a friend's build and this has helped me out a lot. Cheers.

  • @OurSoulAgenda
    @OurSoulAgenda 5 років тому

    Very helpful, super informative. We’re doing our van renovation right now and this is definitely gonna help us add outlets to our baby

  • @tranquilitytravels2994
    @tranquilitytravels2994 5 років тому +2

    Great video! Always so helpful and easy to understand. Thanks!

  • @borkthebasher
    @borkthebasher 6 років тому +1

    these videos are gonna be my go to when i do my van next year. so helpful, thanks so much

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому

      No problem, glad to help!

  • @64maxpower
    @64maxpower 6 років тому +2

    Good job. It's simple to someone that knows what they are doing. Looks complicated to me. I kinda understand it because you ran everything cleanly

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому +1

      That's what I wanted to achieve, hopefully it is informative enough for everyone to have a go!

  • @ReneMartinez-kl5lg
    @ReneMartinez-kl5lg 6 років тому +1

    Great work there buddy, keep the videos coming, thanks for sharing.

  • @sasiratpheiydsingh6910
    @sasiratpheiydsingh6910 3 роки тому +1

    Thank you for sharing this video, it easy to understand compare to the few video that I had watched ,but I’m new to all this and I’m try to get my head around and to get more information as much as I can before I finally try to fitting myself.

  • @HansBonafide
    @HansBonafide 6 років тому +2

    Love the video, love your channel! We're working on converting our 2015 Mercedes Vito to a camper van. Since it has a smart alternator, we also chose the CTEK D250SA. But if I'm not mistaken the installation guide for the CTEK says something about attaching wires to a clamp (n°15) in the fusebox of the car. Is there a specific reason you didn't connect the little red and black wires in your video? Cheers!

    • @nicohartmeier6171
      @nicohartmeier6171 2 роки тому

      I installed a D250SE yesterday and if you have en AGM you need to ground the little black wire so the charger knows which charging program it need to run. The red one goes to ignition IF you have a smart alternator in your car.

  • @paw7110
    @paw7110 5 років тому +3

    Helped me out a bunch. Thank you.

  • @funkydozer
    @funkydozer 6 років тому +1

    Thank you, this has helped me out as I found out earlier today that I couldn't use a standard split charger on my vivaro 2016 because the newer vans have smart alternators, then I just saw this and you solved the problem for me with the CTEK :)

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому

      Great to hear, yeah the smart alternators are getting popular. I know the CTEK is a little expensive but its a great piece of kit.

    • @HansBonafide
      @HansBonafide 6 років тому

      We're having the same problem with our 2015 Vito that we're going to convert (smart alternator). But if I'm not mistaken the installation guide for the CTEK says something about attaching wires to a clamp (n°15) in the fusebox of the car. Is there a specific reason you didn't connect these little wires in your video? Cheers!

  • @LeeBrown96
    @LeeBrown96 6 років тому +1

    Great video, thanks for posting it. I plan to come back to it for inspiration with my van build. Keep 'em coming...have a great day.

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому

      Cheers Lee! Good luck with the conversion when you get to it!

  • @gacattack1234
    @gacattack1234 4 роки тому +2

    Thanks for the ideas mate, Very appreciated!

  • @larryfulmer
    @larryfulmer 4 роки тому +1

    This is a great simple video. I'm bookmarking it for my ubber stealth van build

  • @lynnechallinor6471
    @lynnechallinor6471 5 років тому +3

    Good video - some great ideas I plan to use! Thanks

  • @colehankins
    @colehankins 6 років тому +1

    I had an issue once with a different ground and they were 8 ohms different causing signal issues in a loran transmission application and the transmitter its self. I learned my lesson on "earthing"

  • @Sailor-ip7jo
    @Sailor-ip7jo 4 роки тому

    I'm trying to understand the earthing and wondered have you just watched the control panel and inverter or has the battery been unearthed as well as on your video there were a few cables at your earthing point?

  • @mange2
    @mange2 6 років тому +1

    Hi. I have a couple of questions about the ctek. 1) Does it eliminate the need for a mppt controller? And 2) is it effected by a 240v charger connected to the battery? Thanks.

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  5 років тому +1

      1) Yes you don't need a solar charger in between the panels and the ctek. 2) I am not sure to be honest

  • @stephaniemoore3779
    @stephaniemoore3779 5 років тому +1

    You are BRILLIANT! I am going to be living in an ambulance soon and needed the power to make coffee, fan, etc. It already has a separate battery, so I guess I can just buy the inverter and control panel, right?

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  5 років тому

      Providing the separate battery is a leisure battery and is getting charged then you should be ok. make sure to add a fuse between the battery and inverter (I didn't show this in the video) but check out my latest setup

  • @Chris-be1fo
    @Chris-be1fo 6 років тому +1

    You did well picking up that beast of a battery by yourself. I’ve got a 230AH like that and it’s a struggle

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому

      Yeah it almost weighs as much as me haha

  • @andrewbezzina87
    @andrewbezzina87 6 років тому +1

    Any advice about cheaper alternatives to the ctek? I want to charge my second battery from 3 sources: a solar panel(I already have a solar charge controller), the car battery when it has enough voltage, and a 240v charger for when i have access to the grid.

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому

      You can break everything down into its original pieces. You have the solar charger so look into a dc to dc charger and a 240v to 12v transformer. remember to fuse all the inputs (the fuse size will depend on load and cable length)

  • @russelldickinson5406
    @russelldickinson5406 6 років тому +2

    Hi love your new saw and what an excellent helpful video! Many thanks.

  • @HKommers
    @HKommers 6 років тому +1

    earthing point; it's a part of the circuit! it connects starter battery -VE to the leisure battery -VE etc.
    Just saves a bunch of cabling more than anything, you COULD connect everything without using the chassis as the circuit but not necessary. Te earthing thing i believe is ore common practice for earthing component casings and such, but it's rarely done. Your inverter probably has a grounding terminal, mine did.
    also, seconded on the good heads-up on the CTEK working with solar, will have to look that one up

    • @chatteyj
      @chatteyj 4 роки тому

      Does it not mean you could get a shock if you were to touch the vehicle chassis though as it has an electrical current now running through it?

  • @paulwilliams2024
    @paulwilliams2024 4 роки тому +1

    This helps so much . So simple

  • @Serhildan000
    @Serhildan000 4 роки тому

    Great video, thanks! One question. I just bought an inverter for my wooden shed and beside positive and negative, it has an earthing/grounding connection. What/where should I connect it to?

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  4 роки тому

      If you have bought it for a shed you could get grounding rod and connect to that but I would consult with a qualified electrician

  • @NRnrNnrNR
    @NRnrNnrNR 2 роки тому

    Great video, Hugh!
    Informative and thorough
    I'll be sure to catch up on the series and keep watching, your newer videos certainly show progression!
    Could I ask: When using the CTEK, where in the circuit would you add an additional mains hook up?
    Thinking of using the same schematics & components in the not to distant future
    Warmest of regards,
    Edit from an hour ago:
    I've just found the answer to my previous query- CTEK vs a standard alternator- both are viable together for anyone referencing!

  • @japreet_kah
    @japreet_kah 5 років тому

    Will it charge from me driving my van because ive wired it up to the van battery? Thanks

  • @quepasatim
    @quepasatim 5 років тому

    nice instlation, doing the same tomorrow....for agm batterys conect that black thin cable to the chasis, and depending on your alternator the red cable to the ignition..

  • @earthwormjj
    @earthwormjj 6 років тому +1

    Amazing detail man.
    Subbed

  • @6yjjk
    @6yjjk 6 років тому +24

    Very interesting stuff. I would really have appreciated a diagram of the whole system, though - easier to follow.

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому +6

      I am going to redo this video to answer some new questions!

    • @sheyedlington9046
      @sheyedlington9046 3 роки тому

      @@HughTube I love your advise. Please send this oldie an update on this job to do. Iv just retired and I want to try and do my van. Thank you. 🤗

    • @maddendakari7296
      @maddendakari7296 2 роки тому

      You all prolly dont give a damn but does anyone know a method to log back into an Instagram account?
      I somehow forgot my password. I appreciate any assistance you can give me.

    • @kannonbo4175
      @kannonbo4175 2 роки тому

      @Madden Dakari instablaster ;)

    • @maddendakari7296
      @maddendakari7296 2 роки тому

      @Kannon Bo i really appreciate your reply. I got to the site on google and Im waiting for the hacking stuff now.
      Seems to take a while so I will reply here later when my account password hopefully is recovered.

  • @12053mike
    @12053mike 6 років тому +14

    Nice job!
    My only suggestion is that you beef up the battery support and strap it down better. During travel, especially on rough roads, it could bounce and fall.
    Most people mount their batteries to the van floor.

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому +2

      The stand should definitely be strong enough but I will look to strap it down!

    • @crpth1
      @crpth1 6 років тому +3

      I'll add another detail. When designing the camper van. Always try your best to set the loads on a low and center position (between axles). A heavy load on the overhang of the axle it's not the best option. ;-)
      When I made mine sometime ago (before UA-cam LOL ) water tanks and batteries where set like mentioned. You could hit a twisty road with impeccable behavior of the vehicle. Hope it helps. Cheers. ;-)

    • @christophermiles7235
      @christophermiles7235 6 років тому +2

      I would add a battery isolation switch between the battery and invertor?

    • @chatteyj
      @chatteyj 4 роки тому

      @@christophermiles7235 Where else would you add a isolator switch? Between the solar array and the battery?

    • @christophermiles7235
      @christophermiles7235 4 роки тому

      Devonian I would, my charge controller likes to have the battery connected first so if you want to disconnect your battery you might also want to disconnect the solar first? I’m no expert though

  • @helenhope6063
    @helenhope6063 4 роки тому +1

    Could you let me know the fuse box what type is it has I have just bought everything for my daughter t5 it's coming this week just need the fuse box you used like the video thanks ken

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  4 роки тому

      Its a 12v distribution board

  • @calebyupe7034
    @calebyupe7034 6 років тому +1

    Just a simple question , the inverter consumes power too so when your not using any electrical's the batteries still get drained , so how do you install a switch to turn off the inverter on/off when you need power? i like how simple your system is

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому

      you can find large amperage cut off switches like you see next to air conditioning units so you can physically cut the power

  • @lpl9414
    @lpl9414 5 років тому +1

    I like how you say earthing instead of ground(: sounds right easy👍👍

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  5 років тому +1

      yeah sorry it's a bad habit

  • @paullunt7842
    @paullunt7842 6 років тому +1

    Really clear and helpful video mate. Could you possibly explain how the 12v system links in with the 240v hook up. I presume it's another switching unit but not 100% sure? Cheers.

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому

      Hi John, my system doesn't have a 240V hookup yet as I just don't need it. I get that I can use it to charge my battery while also having a 240v plug but I still don't have a use for either currently

  • @robspence4283
    @robspence4283 4 роки тому +1

    Love the videos, really helpful! This is probably a daft question to someone who knows but I'd rather be safe then sorry... I have a 2016 vivaro and have picked up the ctek dc - dc charging setup to charge a 120ah leisure battery. The cable that has been sent with the ctek is only 70amp or 10mm is this going to be enough to charge the battery and cope with the amount of amps produced by the alternator?
    Also do you use any sort of isolater in your set ups?

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  4 роки тому +1

      Never feel daft about asking questions! Yes that cable is more than adequate! The CTEK input for the alternator should be fused at 30a so 70a cable is great. I had a isolator switch between the battery positive and the whole system

  • @paulgriffin4820
    @paulgriffin4820 3 роки тому +3

    BRILLIANT MATE

  • @RemusKingOfRome
    @RemusKingOfRome 6 років тому +2

    Love the simplicity of the setup, I might do similar ... but few questions (1) it's not really a 12V system with an inverter ? yes ? no ? (2) Do you think that battery will handle a large draw item, like a microwave, through the inverter. ?

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому +1

      It is still a 12v system but the inverter obviously adds a new dimension. 95% of the time when I have been in my van I have only used the 12v system. Occasionally I will switch on the inverter to power up my laptop or drone. But the base power comes from a 12v battery. Microwaves use a huge amount of power and I personally would never have one in a van, remember that a battery does have a certain amount of life cycles and using stuff like a microwave regularly will mean your also swapping your battery regularly.

    • @simonmasters3295
      @simonmasters3295 6 років тому

      First rule of off-grid power: Never heat anything with electricity. Not toast, not food, not water.

  • @kenparsons1396
    @kenparsons1396 4 роки тому

    Hi I’m interested in how you done the piggy back fuse and what fuse in the box you connected it to
    Thanks

  • @derrickmurphy9988
    @derrickmurphy9988 6 років тому +6

    Good tidy job you done there.well done.

  • @andrescriado7003
    @andrescriado7003 5 років тому +1

    Can I ask.. I will be installing a second battery smart isolatior kit etc. They recomend inline 30amp fuses, shall I use manual circuit breakers, instead of the fuses? Thanks

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  5 років тому

      Well it is up to you. Circuit breakers are good as if they blow you can check for issues and then flick back on without replacing a fuse but I don't know what the price difference is.

  • @chiccoka
    @chiccoka 4 роки тому

    hi.What if i have a split relay on it? should i just put my solar panel controller straight to the battery?

  • @davidhawes7783
    @davidhawes7783 4 роки тому +1

    Hello. This is a great video. A lot of installs get so complicated as though its a competition or something. I want to keep it simple so your example is perfect. Thanks.
    I have seen other installs and wiring diagrams for the CTEK D250SA which include the swtiched live to the ignition and so I wonder if you could give some more info on why you said this wasnt needed on your install please. It must serve a purpose if the manufacturer has included this and it is shown on their wiring diagrams, no?

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  4 роки тому

      Hi David, I must admit this is an older video. When starting the van I still noticed power coming from the starter battery/alternator without those cables hooked up but if you can connect them I would recommend it.

  • @NRnrNnrNR
    @NRnrNnrNR 2 роки тому

    Well in!
    Wondering if 'smart' (the Edecoa) invertor & (also the CTEK shown here) charger would operate correctly/safely with a non smart alternator?
    Any advice would be greatly appreciated

  • @Studio-ffft5
    @Studio-ffft5 3 роки тому +1

    Thanks for sharing. I would caution against having an AC outlet on a horizontal orientation - too easy to short. Also, how did you size the wire coming from your alternator? Looks a bit small...

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  3 роки тому

      I found the amp amount coming into the CTEK from starter and used cable just above that amp rating and fused it. Never had a problem and never found the cable getting hot

  • @666hobart
    @666hobart 5 років тому +1

  • @Jimskateuk
    @Jimskateuk 6 років тому +1

    good video, is there anything stopping my buying the ctek and battery and running everything 12v this summer then adding solar and inverter later? also at 4:40 you mention smart alternators, what do you mean? is the ctek suitable to run straight off the battery in the cab in a sprinter? thanks in advance

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому +1

      Yeah you can add inverter and solar later! The ctek connects directly to the van starter battery but some vans built after a certain point have smart alternators which means you will have to connect the smart alternator wires up according to the manual

  • @NationXonline
    @NationXonline 5 років тому

    What was the cost for all that wiring job you done. I mean parts? Thank you

  • @rhpmountaintrail9206
    @rhpmountaintrail9206 6 років тому +1

    Hi there in the video you mention smart alternators does this mean you have is changed your alternator in your van or can you run a standard alternator with this kit.

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому

      You can run standard alternators for sure, you just don't connect up the two smaller wires that regulate the smart alternator function

  • @PatriotGearReviewsCt
    @PatriotGearReviewsCt 6 років тому +1

    Hugh I just purchased this same Ctek for my van. I’m confused as to what to do with the little black and red wires coming out the side. I noticed you didn’t connect them to anything so did you leave them that way? Or know what they’re for?

    • @FrankKinlan888
      @FrankKinlan888 5 років тому +1

      Depending on your battery type it needs to go to the +ve or -ve terminal. I have the old Ctek but now have a van with a smart alternator

    • @ianchamberlain3579
      @ianchamberlain3579 5 років тому

      ive just bought CTEK D250sa and Smartpass, its my understanding that the little red cable is piggy backed into the ignition fuse so that the system recognises the slightly higher voltage required by smart alternators or it wont work properly .

  • @TheMackieBob
    @TheMackieBob 6 років тому +2

    great one - do you have a schematic diagram of the system? It would be a huge help

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому

      Hi, if you check out my latest 12v video I have put up a diagram in that video. ua-cam.com/video/8gu0Th2u2Yg/v-deo.html

  • @deandre1988
    @deandre1988 5 років тому +1

    I like how both Negative and Earth is the same in your specific van. Real physics conundrum

    • @tonychalmers9867
      @tonychalmers9867 3 роки тому

      Most modern vehicles are a negative earth system. The metal structure, chassis and body, is part of the circuit.

  • @TheChalkmister
    @TheChalkmister 5 років тому +1

    Hi Hugh,
    I am in the planning phase and like your system but truth be told i am bricking it a little. Do you have a sketch and bit more info of what you did by any chance?

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  5 років тому

      If your truly worried then get a list of the parts, and verify with an electrician and maybe he can even fit it for you, although he may look at circuit breakers instead of a blade fuse dist. board. Is the idea of using a sparky out of the budget?

  • @marzy2423
    @marzy2423 6 років тому +16

    I know this video is a little old now, but when you were talking about grounding to the chassis and there is debate about it. There is no debate, grounding to the chassis is the correct method. Look at the main car battery, it only has one thick lead coming of the chassis to the neg term. Every other component grounds to the chassis.

    • @chatteyj
      @chatteyj 4 роки тому

      Thats interesting and something that has been troubling me as this is the point I am at with my van build, I am still left asking - why though? Why do they ground electrics to the chassis?

    • @Rattys
      @Rattys 3 роки тому

      @@chatteyj It's so that people dont get electrocuted. If the frame and body of the vehicle were not grounded, they would not have a charge, so any short could positively charge them. Your tires keep the car from grounding out, so when someone outside the car touched the door, hood, body, etc., they would become the ground and be shocked. Safety is the reason for grounding the frame. I know that remains true for running a 12 volt system, but I SERIOUSLY doubt that you should do that for any AC inverted wires.

  • @pauldurrant1443
    @pauldurrant1443 3 роки тому +1

    Great videos. A quick question hopefully, how you make up your wire looms with the spiral tape? And any particular reason to use separate wires in pairs taped up vs twin thin walled cable? Cheers

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  3 роки тому

      Hi Paul, you could definitely use twin walled cable. The paired cables are coloured so they can be distinguished from each other for each application.

    • @pauldurrant1443
      @pauldurrant1443 3 роки тому

      @@HughTube Cheers Hugh. And how did you create the actual spiral loom with the tape? I just cannot find any vids on YT that show how to do it. It just looks so neat.

  • @jazz4444ganja888
    @jazz4444ganja888 6 років тому +2

    Hi do you have to have a consumer unit in a camper/catering van if you are using leisure batteries?

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому

      Hi Ricky, I don't personally have one as I don't have a 240v hook up but many vans do and especially catering vans.

  • @gavinspray2755
    @gavinspray2755 3 роки тому +1

    Love your videos, really simple to follow and as a complete novice who is converting a T5 they've helped a lot. l am a little confused on one thing though. Is you're invertor wired into the 240V supply and charging your leisure battery or not? If not, can you do this?

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  3 роки тому

      No mine did not have hook up but this can be easily added. You can even get 'hook up kits' for campers

  • @adamroutley
    @adamroutley 6 років тому +1

    So your only method to charge your leisure battery is via the alternator / main battery? How long does your LB last generally speaking?

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому +2

      Hi Adam, the leisure battery is charged by both the starter battery and solar panels! In all honesty I have never managed to run the battery empty but I don't run many 240v appliances

  • @pbaylis1
    @pbaylis1 2 роки тому +1

    You are awesome. Thanks mate.

  • @64maxpower
    @64maxpower 6 років тому +4

    Nice work. Super easy for you. You are good at that stuff. I need to watch this 10 more times

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому

      haha dont worry it all takes practice, you will get it in no time!

  • @Hamad.Kuwaitt
    @Hamad.Kuwaitt 5 років тому +2

    Very nice review and job 👍

  • @Jdelqpair
    @Jdelqpair 5 років тому +1

    quick question, when the ctek unit is on & car is running, what colour lights appear on the unit? my setup hasn't got solar running. just interested as orange in the book says check wiring.

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  5 років тому

      Sorry just to clarify, you have a CTEK between your starter battery and leisure battery so that the alternator charges the leisure battery. Plus you don't have solar but when you start your car/van there is an orange light? Which light is orange?

  • @danbissett
    @danbissett 2 роки тому

    Good video thanks, one question, Why did you put such a thick cable to the inverter from the battery when the max load would be 6.25 amps, 1500 watts divided by 240 volts?

  • @BigArch6564
    @BigArch6564 3 роки тому +1

    Cracking job buddy.

  • @chococak9046
    @chococak9046 6 років тому +1

    With the CTEK you don't need a solenoid isolation switch between the starter battery and the house battery?

    • @Larryloafer488
      @Larryloafer488 6 років тому

      Chococak You mean with the purpose of not draining the house battery?

  • @Marchoso.Benito
    @Marchoso.Benito 6 років тому +2

    How do you call that type of battery terminal, and where can I buy the same ones?

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому

      It says it's a bolt through type 2 terminal. I got my battery from alpha batteries

  • @12vLife
    @12vLife 5 років тому +1

    This is great.. My van is small and I really don't want to sleep near a led acid battery. I just need a stable 12v source during heavy sunlight... I've been using my starter battery (70AH, 120RC 12v) and a 1200 Watt invertor under the hood and I get away with a lot so long as I run the car for 30+ minutes a day .. including running my laptop, a .5 amp 9inch USB fan during the day, 12v fan over night at 1amp setting and even cooking with 800Watt hot plate (so long as car is running while I cook).
    I've been thinking about getting a 200 Watt 18v 6amp solar panel, but I don't want to install second battery. My van is a 2018 Ram Promaster City with a 160Amp alternator, I am wondering if I can upgrade my battery to a dual purpose 100AH, 200RC 12 volt battery and charge it from the solar panel through a 20amp charge controller, but I have many questions/concerrns..
    For one, a dual purpose battery is a deep cycle with cranking amps, if it fits will my new van will my alternator be okay with this? How about the computer and components?
    How complicated is charging an in-use primary starter battery from solar? do I need to isolate things to protect the cars normal charging system and components?
    Thanks!

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  5 років тому

      My best advice at this point is to contact a qualified electrician. I haven't played around with running appliances off the starter battery and I wouldn't want to provide a poorly informed answer sorry

  • @16vastraturbo
    @16vastraturbo 5 років тому +1

    How many amps is the battery getting to charge it from the car alternator? And is it getting power from the van battery when the alternator is not charging it? Just worried about the van battery going flat....

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  5 років тому

      in the CTEK manual it says it will charge your leisure battery up to 20A, this can be increased to 140A with a smartpass. The Ctek will also stop taking power from the alternator/starter battery when the engine is off.

  • @NH-po8wr
    @NH-po8wr 5 років тому +2

    What made you got with those batteries? I've done a ton of research for my build and its difficult picking out the best brands for each of the components. A lot of people have recommended the CTEK for example. Would be great to hear how you settled on a decision for each other the components. Thanks, Nate.

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  5 років тому

      Hi Nate, I chose the CTEK for system simplicity. I chose that battery not really for the brand (they seem to be good quality but had never heard of them before) I chose AGM batteries as they are good with vibration and being sat at weird angles.

    • @Farmer2492
      @Farmer2492 2 роки тому

      @@HughTube People are buying Lithium Batteries and there are so many on eBay lower than they are rated yes stick with AGM

  • @bosshog9813
    @bosshog9813 6 років тому

    Hi Hugh .
    I got the same inverter with a remote start.
    It's not really working for me at the moment. It has an alarm with green flashlight light, going by the manual it's the cable size or the mos-fet .; some sort of internal stuff.
    Did u have any issue with yours . .
    I am thinking of upgrading my cables that came with it
    Hope that helps

  • @MakeDoAndMend1
    @MakeDoAndMend1 6 років тому +2

    Cable ratings are in free air. When used in trunking or bunched. You derate them. As cables get warm. Cables used in engine compartments need to be oil and fuel resistant. Please look on cable manufacturers data sheet for more info. George

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому

      Thanks again George!

  • @mange2
    @mange2 5 років тому +1

    Hi Hugh. I was just wondering how your Edecoa inverter has been? Im looking for an inverter right now but have seen mixed reviews about Edecoa. Would appreciate some advice. Cheers.

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  5 років тому

      Mine has worked fine! no issues but I guess it's like a lot of products out there some have mixed reviews

  • @stevesimpson5417
    @stevesimpson5417 2 роки тому

    Brilliant, love your videos, watched quite a few now several times, they've been so helpful. Question if I may, what size cable do I need to buy to go from starter battery to the CTEK?

  • @robaire.b
    @robaire.b 6 років тому +1

    By the way I bought the same voltage meter as shown in the video and it consistently gives an inaccurate reading - I checked using a multimeter and have now installed a NASA marine battery monitor (BM1) which also shows the status of the start battery too and indicated the level of charging current from the solar panels and the alternator/start battery

  • @howard922
    @howard922 4 роки тому +1

    Does the fan on your inverter draw air in or push air out? (If it expels Air it should be at the top)

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  4 роки тому

      expels and the inverter has been, well inverted lol

  • @vanphilippines5496
    @vanphilippines5496 4 роки тому +1

    thanks for making it simple

  • @super-sim1665
    @super-sim1665 6 років тому +1

    Solar power can double the life of the battery. During the day power mostly comes from the panel and prevents battery cycling.

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому

      Did not know this! Thanks

  • @timrutland9711
    @timrutland9711 3 роки тому

    good video where do I get this check for my transit custom

  • @jaymac9154
    @jaymac9154 4 роки тому +1

    Great video. First time I've watched your channel.
    The link for the Ctek doesn't seem to work though. See them on ebay for £230. Are they any cheaper on roadpro?

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  4 роки тому

      They may be, always good to have a look around

  • @stevenmerriman9419
    @stevenmerriman9419 6 років тому +1

    Hi Hugh, Nice video, just a question about the CTEK, the 250SA can only supply a peak of 20A given that you have a 220AH battery that means that it will take 11 hours of constant driving to charge it from flat! I appreciate your not going to flatten it with solar added in but how is it working out on extended off grid trips?

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому +1

      Hi Steven, with the 200W of solar pumping into it and my modest electricity usage I am doing absolutely fine. Even during charging a couple laptops and travel charger I didn't notice any real dip in the battery indicator

    • @JouniKyyronen-nv1ep
      @JouniKyyronen-nv1ep 6 років тому

      If u charge 20a 10a goes to battery half goes somewhere else

    • @stevenmerriman9419
      @stevenmerriman9419 6 років тому

      Jouni Kyyrönen what do you mean are saying 10a goes to other consumers?

    • @JouniKyyronen-nv1ep
      @JouniKyyronen-nv1ep 6 років тому

      Steven Merriman no if u have 20a charger it charges about 10a per hour

  • @bigtomsvan4817
    @bigtomsvan4817 6 років тому +1

    Wow.Great video. People can follow that to easily install their own system. I myself make things too complicated. Lol. Thanks

  • @intransit2822
    @intransit2822 4 роки тому +1

    Hello buddy.. quick question.. having watched your videos I have also gone Ctek 250 (SE) with Smartpass 120. It says as well as connecting to the starter battery than I need to connect the smart alternator cable to ignition signal +15 clamp (DIN 72552) as I have AGM in a mark 8 Transit. Any advice how to do this would be greatly appreciated.

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  4 роки тому +1

      You just need to connect the negative of the smaller cables to the chassis/earth and then for the positive run it into one of the vans fuse boxes and use a piggyback fuse holder to connect it to an accessory that only activates when the ignition is turned on

  • @esdsecurity
    @esdsecurity 6 років тому +3

    We where's the 100- 200amp inverter fuse between the battery and inverter? And your need 0/4AWG gauge cable from inverter to Aux battery for 1500/3000watt power draw.

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому +1

      I have added a fuse now but it was my fault that I didn't cover this in the video

    • @Kustomking13
      @Kustomking13 4 роки тому

      Should be a 400a dc fuse or a 250a circuit breaker. This chart should help.
      www.altestore.com/howto/recommended-inverter-cables-sizing-and-breakers-or-fuses-a62/

  • @brandongoesphotoxvideo
    @brandongoesphotoxvideo 4 роки тому +1

    Hey man, this may be a basic question but I'm trying to get all answers I possibly can before beginning my electrical system. I see you have have multiple cables connecting to the same battery terminals, do you have to have a washer between each of them on the terminal or is it okay if they touch?

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  4 роки тому

      Its ok if they touch

  • @stevenlake4316
    @stevenlake4316 4 роки тому

    Are you certain that your earthing block shown at around 8:15 doesn't need a separate wire running from it to an earthing point?

  • @stephenellis7278
    @stephenellis7278 6 років тому +1

    Nice work, a good ,simple system 😎

  • @nadavzisin3851
    @nadavzisin3851 6 років тому

    Thanks for your video. I’m trying to replicate your setup . Can you please tell me what size cable you used from the fuse box to the control panel for your appliances?

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому

      Hi Nadav, it depends on how long that cable is. Do you know how long your cable will need to be?

    • @nadavzisin3851
      @nadavzisin3851 6 років тому

      HughTube thanks for getting back to me. Actually I was hoping to run cable from the fuse box straight out to various appliances. Eg. lights, fridge, water pump. Each on its own circuit. Originally, we tried connecting the LED lights straight to our 170AH battery via 2.5mm 2core cable we used and it got so hot it almost melted in a second. So we got a 100A fuse box to put in between and hoping that will fix the issue.

  • @curioussloth4264
    @curioussloth4264 5 років тому +1

    Hi Hugh, I'm using this set up in my transit custom conversion, apart from using a Lead Acid instead of AGM. I seem to be getting a charging rate from the CTEK of around 14.9v, does this seem a little too high or okay for this set up? Thanks for all the amazing videos!

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  5 років тому

      hmm that seems high the max charge your battery should be reaching is 14.2V

    • @curioussloth4264
      @curioussloth4264 5 років тому

      @@HughTube Thanks a lot, luckily it seemed to sort itself out and working great now!

    • @deadleg9252
      @deadleg9252 Рік тому

      Hi, I am setting my electrics up right now.. I have 2 lead acid batteries and the ctek but I’ve been told by people that it doesn’t support lead acid batteries and also it doesn’t mention in the manual that it does/doesn’t. How have you fitted the (smart alternator black cable) for this? Also how has it been working for you? Have you had any issues?
      Thanks

  • @PaulJones-vg9sd
    @PaulJones-vg9sd 6 років тому +1

    Is there a need to add a fuse to the inverter feed cable?

    • @HughTube
      @HughTube  6 років тому

      I will be adding one, it is safer to do so. I unfortunately forgot to add this into the video

  • @stevemcgowan3017
    @stevemcgowan3017 6 років тому

    hi hugh.i have swich panel in my espace camper and fuse block but ive wired spotlight to fuse block and back of control panel but light works weather I have panel switch on or off.i need the fuse supplying spotlight but do I need piggyback spade on back switch panel?steve