Ive been installing 12v electrics in cars/caravans for 20 something years, I still watched your video through till the end. The time you have taken to plan and deliver a concise message for this install is commendable. I’ll definitely be sending this video to people who are asking me for help in the future! Well done
I share Scott's opinion. This is about as close to a proper "how to" video as you can legally get on UA-cam. Excellent reference material. I plan to install a similar system in my 50A RV and will be referencing this video as well as visiting your store for the applicable install kits.
I am paraplegic laying down in my bed for two years. I don’t have a convention van and I’m watching this video for almost an hour. More like 160,000 people watching this video
*Hey there! Thanks for tuning in. I've got a metric ton of additional info hidden behind the 'read more' link below, so be sure to click that to check out all of the supplemental info for this video as you'd definitely be missing out on some important stuff if you don't.* System Cost Analysis: ua-cam.com/video/Tkbj51mOhKg/v-deo.html *Parts for this system:* ➤EXPLORIST.life Wiring Kit: shop.explorist.life/shop/all-products/camper-wiring-kits/complete-wiring-kits/540ah-3000w-24v-multiplus-580w-to-1700w-solar/ ➤Heated 270Ah Battle Born Batteries: battlebornbatteries.com/product/12v-gc3-lifepo4-heated-battery-kit/?afmc=explorist_bb67 ✅Use code 'explorist' for $50 off per battery. ➤Wiring Diagram: shop.explorist.life/shop/all-products/plans-and-diagrams/solar-wiring-diagrams/540ah-battery-bank-3000w-24v-multiplus-580w-1700w-solar-wiring-diagram-explorist-life-2021-ford-transit-camper-van/ ➤*Other wiring kits that may be helpful:* shop.explorist.life/product-category/all-products/camper-wiring-kits/ ➤*Wiring Diagrams for other systems:* www.explorist.life/solarwiringdiagrams *Binge the Transit Van Build:* ua-cam.com/play/PLmvhcyi4n0TVfA4XCYJBkzfUXunSON1zX.html *OTHER ELECTRICAL PROJECTS ON THIS VAN WE TACKLED BEFORE THIS VIDEO:* ➤INSTALLING OUR ROOFTOP SOLAR ARRAY: ua-cam.com/video/zspCRKAFxKA/v-deo.html ➤INSTALLING OUR 24V DC AIR CONDITIONER: ua-cam.com/video/G1oqnxNJDog/v-deo.html ➤HOW TO WIRE USB OUTLETS: ua-cam.com/video/X1tQWYXY2Fc/v-deo.html ➤HOW TO WIRE 12V OUTLETS: ua-cam.com/video/_nGbtOH5Dk0/v-deo.html ➤HOW TO WIRE PUCK LIGHTS: ua-cam.com/video/o-YlpzrnuzI/v-deo.html ➤HOW TO WIRE 12V DIMMERS: ua-cam.com/video/dn77-CbxR4g/v-deo.html ➤HOW TO WIRE 12V 3-WAY SWITCHES: ua-cam.com/video/WRQuVMFlric/v-deo.html ➤HOW TO WIRE RELAYS: ua-cam.com/video/mTH1Uc_L2M8/v-deo.html ➤WIRING 120V OUTLETS, SWITCHES, AND GFCI: ua-cam.com/video/en6Q2L6Bf3A/v-deo.html ➤INSTALLING A 30A SHORE POWER INLET: ua-cam.com/video/WDAzwaEWUT4/v-deo.html *Regarding the shore power wire gland referenced at **44:24**.* Check this video at 30:22: ua-cam.com/video/01F4QDVJUq0/v-deo.html *We installed our enclosure to the L-Track in the floor. Here's a video of us installing that:* ua-cam.com/video/6H7TvKNrwN0/v-deo.html *Aluminum Extrusion Enclosure Info:* Working on it. Comment if you want it and I'll follow up with you when it's ready. *Programming Parameters*: I've added the basic settings we used to the product description of our wiring kit here: shop.explorist.life/shop/all-products/camper-wiring-kits/complete-wiring-kits/540ah-3000w-24v-multiplus-580w-to-1700w-solar/
Once again, thanks for your comprehensive videos! My biggest hurdle (after buying the van) has been sourcing materials. Stuff like "what kind of wood should this be?" or "what's a good price for x?" It's incredibly frustrating to buy something only to realize you've been taken for an extra 50-100%. Because of its popularity there is just so much out there. Your shop and material recommendations are solid, with good prices. It's definitely possible to get lower prices, but if one doesn't have 3 months to wait for a sale, or does not want to endlessly pick up metal shavings around the garage, your shop is a fantastic place to start.
A magnificent demonstration! I have always respected your skills and talent for explaining so concisely. Bravo! One point that gave me a shiver; the PCB ground connection wire on the negative buss has a RED terminal ring on the end!! That is a bit misleading. Design flaw at Victron?
Hey George, I sure appreciate that! It means a lot coming from someone who has the impeccable attention to detail that you do. Thanks for watching! I also hate how smaller ring terminals like that are color coded. Traditionally, the small ring terminals (18-22awg) have red heat shrink on them (14-16 are blue, 10-12 are yellow, and then red again for 8ga (because there are apparently only three colors?) but this definitely leads to a bad feeling when trying to connect a small wire with red insulation because of it's size to a negative busbar.
One of the best all around electrical videos on the internet for van builds, thank you so much for putting this together! I’m in the process of gutting and upgrading the electrical system in our class C, and while I can’t quite afford all the high end stuff you have here, it’s still extremely useful from a planning perspective. Now if only the price of copper would go down… 🤨 Keep up the good work, the world of DIY really appreciates it!
This is also a tutorial on how to make tutorials. I'm not building a camper any time soon but the explanations of the principles of how to wire up solar and batteries is so good that I can't stop watching. Also appreciate that you didn't edit out your small mistakes, instead explaining what you did to fix them. And the fact that you provided links to the sections. You've set a new standard here for tutorial videos.
I know right. There's no way I could do this I was having dreams about it because I'm messing with solar. I was having dreams that I could almost try to start doing this kind of thing for people. But there's no way I don't think I could get good enough. I didn't realize people have been doing this for so long. There are quite a few people that are very good at it
Wow!!! The quality of your tutorials is light years ahead of anything I have ever seen on youtube! The attention to detail, the professional filming/editing, the pedagogical explanations, everything! Having this freely available is mind-blowing. And this comes from a non-native English speaker from Europe used to the simplicity of the metric system, who gets the chills every time some weird units pop up, like 4/0, 5/16", 6 gauge and whatnot :D. Kudos for the work on the Closed-Captions that make even these confusing units/words accessible :) Unfortunately, the mismatch in units/electrical systems means I probably won't be buying many kits from your website, but I wish your business to prosper nonetheless and I will for sure keep on watching more of your videos :).
The most helpful video I have ever watched on UA-cam. Being a good van builder I’ve always had a fear of the electrics. This is helping me a lot. This video needs to reach near and far, to help people out. Well done
Your content is incredible in every way. Id really expect to be paying for this kind of tutorial but you are giving it away for free - how awesome is that!
Seems like a lot I don't even think I would ever attempt it. Why can't you just connect 2 to 4 batteries together as one then connect a 10000 watt inverter to it & that's all ready to go.
It's super cool. Definitely takes more planning than wood only, but I love how easy it is to put together and take apart as the plan changes or we want to add stuff.
Why has no-one mentioned this? It's EXACTLY what I'm stuck on myself! What happens if a 230v touches the chassis and rushes back to this distributor. Am I to believe it just safely passes through ALL of my 12/24v hardware WITHOUT causing damage to find itself back at the RCD to safely trip?!
Amazing! I think I'm going to do the exact same layout and really love the details in this video. Can't wait for the alternator install video. Going to the store to get these new plans. Thanks again for the killer tutorial.
@@joshedcostanza I really like that dc-to-dc charger. I can't believe how much I like that install. It is so amazing glad you did yours had are having a great time
I'm trying to decide between the $78 iwiss crimping tool for the $98 wirefy I kind of like the iwiss I already brought bought iwiss battery lug crimper. I don't have it yet I sent for it I'm probably going to stick with the iwiss Unless I hear different from you I think I saw you had wirefy
Thank you . I found the big wire crimper the Temco I left a message earlier but deleted it stating I couldn't find it. But I finally Googled it and found it. the one I bought I probably will send that back and get that temco. That's the beauty part about Amazon😁
I'm curious if you could speak more about why you chose Battle Born batteries? They seem to be the popular option for DIYers, but the few engineers I know that are upgrading their battery systems in their RV/camper van (both in real life and on UA-cam) have all gone with Lithionics. The Fit RV did a factory tour of Lithionics that made it seem like a better option. I'd love to hear you talk about your view on the different battery brands (if you can - I'd understand if you weren't able if Battle Born is your sponsor). Thanks!
Sure! So it really comes down to customer support. When I am recommending a battery, the brand I am recommending needs to: ->Be able to sell the battery (aka: keep it in stock) ->Have fast shipping times ->Have great customer support to answer questions about their products (pre and post sale) ->Have great tech support to help troubleshoot if something isn't working properly ->A no-hassle warranty process where they don't try to weasel out of warranty coverage. Battle Born checks ALL of these boxes AND they have high quality batteries to match. There are other battery manufacturers out there who have great batteries, but they just don't check the rest of those boxes in my own personal experience.
Not one on one; no. I'd rather focus on making these videos to help thousands simultaneously instead of spending my time focusing on only the people who can pay for my time. Everything you need to design and build these systems is already available through my videos, no one-on-one help required.
Your video was so professional I thought I was watching an episode of How It's Made. Absolutely amazing video quality and narration. Extremely well done, thank you for the content!!
Excelleny tutorials! Congrats from Europe. I plan to build my own van in a couple of years from now when I retire, so I still have time to learn! By then, I expect cost of batteries to have reduced and EV charging points to have expanded. Have you considered an increased battery bank that could be re-charger at EV charging stations? and if so, which inverter/charger would you use?
i appreciate the video Im setting up my first solar system, going with a setup very similar to this, 4 450w solar panels, 2 200ah 12v batteries, multiplus 24/3k/70, mppt 150/100, and orion dc to dc.. my question is all of your layouts and tutorials say to use 4/0 for the battery cables and i see you only use 1/0, also the multiplus recommends 1/0 with 300a fuse. my question is did you change your opinion? can i use 1/0 because i have them all crimped and ready to go, im just waiting on my lynx.. but if i need 4/0 i will use it. thank you in advance
Hi, Nate. This is an old video, so I don't know if you'll see this post, but I have a question about wire sizing. I have 4 105 ah Lion Energy LiFePo4 batteries, wired in Parallel, using 2/0 welders cable. My longest run is about 6'. I'm considering buying 2 more batteries. Can I still use the 2/0 wire, or do I need to up it to 4/0? Thx for all your videos. They're the best.
I see you connected your solar charge controllers equipment grounds to the Multiplus equipment ground and the Multiplus equipment ground to the Lynx Distributor ground terminal. I'm in the process of installing a Multiplus-II 50A/120V inverter/charger and Lynx Distributor with a solar charge controller in my Motorhome. MY Multiplus-II is mounted about 12 feet away from the rest of my components and batteries. My battery cables are 4/0 as is the battery cables running to my Multiplus-II 12 feet away. My plan is to attach a 4/0 ground wire from the Multiplus-II directly to the motor home chassis-frame and also to ground the Lynx Distributor ground in a similar fashion to the same motorhome chassis-frame rail, but 12' away from where I grounded the Multiplus-II. Is this grounding strategy sound? Thanks.
Thank you for this video. Il very helpfull and very informative. With the 24/12 volts , when i read "can achieve an efficiency of 92%", I understand, when i use 92 watts with my 12 volts appliances, it's take 100 watts in the battery bank, i have right or not ? Do you think the battery model of 24 volts it better for the battery life, the wire heat and this model will expend in the futur ? Thanks again for all information you give to us.
How long could you power that 24v A/C unit off this system? Would there be a possibility of an interruption if it was a cloudy hot day using it and you intended on using it through the night? Would it be crazy to add more batteries such as 6 or 8 100Ah? Could you add more of these giant batteries and still accomplish a 24v system?
Why did you run 6 awg to the DC fuse panels? Is it because you installed 2 DC fuse panels and need to double the amp rating? If you only had one DC fuse panel, would 10 awg work instead? Thanks for the information.
Although a year plus ago; great video, ow and you guys with the awg’s ? I must admit in Netherland we still use the good old thumb, or halve a thumb for pipe fittings, a thunderstorm is an inch hehe . Anyway I am going to look how you installed you paneling, looks really stylish industrial which I seek for my van. Anyway, best regards, Albert 🇳🇱
I too spend much time at 3000m elevation and have flooded batteries. Can/should I heat them? Intuitively seems contraindicated. Another unreal vid, thanks! ps I have little experience with electrical. Do you think I could buy some stuff from you strictly to create a small scale learning workbench, and use say a single solar panel? I'd probably get a bona fide controller and other essential bits but would like to scale down as much as feasible.
So, if there's an exposed AC wire touching the van and then a human, that load will go through the earth cable into a lynx distributor running at that point, 12v? Surely that would damage it no? 🤨
@silvioaraujomusic I have been trying to find the 12vdc distribution box not able to find your type used in this video. hides the wires behind the bulkhead. Please the link to it. Thanks, great video!
We have these batteries and were planning on 12v, but we bought the quattro 24v5000va120amp inverter, can we still use it as 12v or do we have to go 24v? Can’t find any info on this?
19:34 : I am currently building my system and am wondering why I need to ground the components to the chassis, if the trailer itself isn’t grounded anyways? It’s only standing on the wheels and on plastic blocks when I am drycamping, so there is no “ground connection” to the ground/earth that it is standing on. Thank you!!
Wow. So much detail. All I was looking for was how to wire up a 100/30 charge controller and I still watched the video start to finish. One question though - is the heater circuit for the batteries fused? I have a self heating BattleBorn battery and they sent a massive wire kit with it but it seems to standard jumper wire is not fused.
One of the best most comprehensive build videos I have seen. As a tech who builds these systems in mobile command posts I have two pieces of advise. First, Only use the washers and nuts that come with the battery fuse terminals. These terminals pull current through the first washer and simply tossing a stainless steel washer in there will heat up enough to burn your hands, melt plastic and even start a fire. Second, would be to include some active cooling in that enclosure. Inverters get very hot and a simple PC fan on a thermal switch circuit can extend the life of everything in that enclosure. Less of a technical comment and more of a preference would be to hit all that birch plywood with some wipe on poly, wax or some other clear coat to keep the wood from staining. Even the sweat from your hands can leave marks on the birch ply and if you are OCD your gonna go nuts.
Hey TheReefaholic, thanks for watching! Re: 1: Of course! That's exactly what we did. Battle Born batteries come with two lengths of bolts for their battery terminals. We used the shorter of the two they supplied. Re: 2: There is about 27sq/in of ventilation around the back of the enclosure and around the lid, which should be adequate based on the hundreds of systems I've consulted on. *If it's NOT adequate*, I'll add a fan controlled either by enclosure temperature or have the fan turn on when the multiplus fans turn on. I'll make a video teaching how to do this if I end up needing to do it. I don't anticipate needing this, but that's the plan if I do. Re: 3: We did back when we installed the walls. Here's the video for that: ua-cam.com/video/cf2BjQxMKDI/v-deo.html
Very nice video. Only if you would also use the metric numbers for the wires and components.. that would make it perfect. I don't understand why why americans have to use their own stupid nonsense
Do you offer a complete set of written instructions with pictures on everything an what you didn't get into on this DIY installation of this system. If so were can I order this?
Hi! Yet another very informative and awesome video! Thank you! Do you ever see the need to have individual breakers which would be allow various parts of the system (DC-DC Charger, Solar Charge Controllers, etc.) to be easily isolated/switched off? I like the Lynx Distributor but the only way to isolate a portion of the system would be to remove a fuse.
Nope. I can't really think of a reason why it's worth putting a bunch of extra connections (points of failure and resistance) to have that functionality. It'd be pretty rare that I'd need to shut one charging/discharging source down without shutting all of them down.
Opinion on a new builder and general build time frame? Assuming I have everything and follow your guide, do you think I could get this done in a month if I had around 4 hours a day?
Thanks guys!!! I watched the entire video and this is just what I needed. Super clear instructions. Thanks for taking the time to make this detailed video!
How can i get a simple , run a frig ,shaver maybe. In a 2020 toyota sienna,xle..dont want to light up a city,,just keep things,food cold frig safely running..help..vince..exhausted from watching vids...love em though..
I have Studer 50A - 2 input / 3 output battery isolator which has two 240v battery chargers, a small solar array and the alternator connected to it, and three battery banks. I want to replace my leisure battery bank with Lithium. Can i fit a DC _ DC charge controller between the isolator and the lithium battery bank?
This may take a more in-depth look at your personal setup. If you have purchased/are purchasing from our store (shop.explorist.life) reach out for some more personalized help: shop.explorist.life/support If you've purchased/are purchasing elsewhere, reach out to your dealer for support. We'd love to have you as a shop.explorist.life customer so we can provide a bit more help in the future. 🙂
@EXPLORISTlife - I recently started binge-watching your various Academy playlists, and watched this video as well as your other van install video. I consider myself pretty handy when it comes to home improvement stuff (woodworking, 110v electrical, plumbing) but I am a new boat owner and RV owner and I have learned a tremendous amount from your videos in just a short time. As an advanced DIY'er, I'm particularly impressed by your attention to detail - things like scuffing up the cable lugs, wiping contact down with alcohol, tightening fasteners to the appropriate torque, edge-banding your cabinetry, etc. One thing I did notice, however, was that when you attached the 12v cables from the A/C to the distributor, you did not put the plastic divider back into place between the cables. Was this intentional? Similarly, I noticed that when you connected the 12v cables to the shunt, you attached one to the back of the tab and one to the front. Was this to reduce the overlap between the two cables? Keep up the great work, so that the rest of us can get draw inspiration and aspire to your level of workmanship!
Hey Guys!!! Fab video, This is so neat!!! If I was to remain with similar install but a 12V AC system and 3000W inverter, What Lith Batteries would you recommend 2 or 3 x 100Ah or 1 x 250 Ah - Also what rating mega fuse are you using for your Solar?? Thanks
This is what you're after: shop.explorist.life/shop/all-products/camper-wiring-kits/complete-wiring-kits/wiring-diagram-kits/camper-van/explore-van-wiring-kit/#start-with-your-base-kit
I do not understand why you use 12 or 24 V inverters ? 5000 VA ==> 463 AMPS for 12 V system, 232 AMPS for 24 V system, 113 AMPS for 48 V system, 55 AMPS for 96 V system.
I'm noticing that you're using copper battery wire. Is the marine-grade pre-tinned cable overkill? I live along the Gulf coast in rainy and humid conditions. @EXPLORISTlife
Wow, you did/do a lot of work .... for this update. Good job .. this one will be around for years. I am glad Battleborn and maybe Victron has given a lot that would cost me more than I can imagine.
Tons of great information and great detail in every aspect. I would ask how the Battle Born batteries have held up? Have they meet the standards you expected? I am torn between Lithonics and BB. Thanks and keep the great videos coming.
I did a quick google on how to wire up the heating on the batteries but didn't see an indepth explanation how it works. If I saw correctly, you wired up both battery heaters to the +24V terminal of the battery. I'm assuming the second terminal for the heating of each battery is the respective ground terminal of the battery. So either I have missed something or I don't understand it: if both battery heating + terminals are hooked up to 24V and their respective negative terminals are at 12V and 0 (zero) volts, then one heater is working at 24V and the other at 12V. What am I missing here?
My off grid home (6kw solar array) uses all Victron gear and it has been very reliable for 5 years now. By comparison, there are a lot of cheap chinese PV to AC inverters used in solar installs that are junk in a few years. But I would *not* use Lithium batteries........even the Li-Fe-PO4 batteries have been catching on fire. Recently a large Tesla/GenX battery farm near Rockhampton Australia caught on fire, and it used that supposedly "safe" chemistry batteries. Almost all of these LiFePO4 batteries are cheap chinese made with no providence of quality or durability.
You don't have to use LiFePO4, making a blanket statement saying that they are all 'cheap Chinese made with no providence of quality or durability' is simply untrue. Thanks for watching, though!.
By far the best electrical tutorial for a van conversion. Thanks so much y'all when I start my rig I will def. look up and buy your products. Bookmarking this page.
What if you have only one Lynx Distributor, would you just double up on the 1 Lnyx for chassis ground over the Multiplus ground? Or maybe use a shunt to connect two grounds into the Lynx?
This may take a more in-depth look at your personal setup. If you have purchased/are purchasing from our store (shop.explorist.life) reach out for some more personalized help: shop.explorist.life/support If you've purchased/are purchasing elsewhere, reach out to your dealer for support. We'd love to have you as a shop.explorist.life customer so we can provide a bit more help in the future. 🙂
The only improvement victron could do, that I think would make this easier was if all the different "blue boxes" would use the same communication method. EG using all RJ45 cabling. This would make the install easier and cleaner, with custom made cable lengths. And maybe the GX com could power and communicate with the touch screen via POE. I'm not even building any systems like this, but great video!!
1st I would like to say Thank you, to you & to everyone involved is this project! I guess my only questions would be, at the time of this build (Sep 25, 2022), what was the cost of parts and labor in general. I;m not looking for individual cost, just overall parts and overall labor, so I have a general idea...Thank you Again!
Thanks! Curious... but why do you want to know the price of the build when we built it instead of the price as it is today? The links to current pricing for the kits and such are in the video description & pinned comment.
I really do enjoy these videos. I must have watched it 20 times. One question: Should there not be a shore-power disconnect? While pedestals have breakers, what if we're just charging from a normal 15-amp outlet? How would you remove the load before unplugging?
You'd simply plug in or disconnect. You don't have to turn off a breaker before disconnecting much like you dont have to turn off a house breaker to plug in or unplug your toaster. Just turn the toaster off before yanking the plug.
Hi Nate, Great video as usual-and timely for us as we are starting on our 24V system. I particularly liked the dual solar setup. Do you have a preferred source for the ground solar array port? Idea for a future video: Cerbo GX vs BMV-712 battery monitor.
That port will soon be an add-on for our solar array wiring kits, but until then, I've included it in the 'other parts required' section of the kit for this build: shop.explorist.life/shop/all-products/camper-wiring-kits/complete-wiring-kits/540ah-3000w-24v-multiplus-580w-to-1700w-solar/ Cerbo GX vs BMV-712 is definitely a video on the horizon now that we've made this video.
I know it's from a year ago, so the odds of getting an answer are slim to none, but why is the GX hooked straight to the 1000A busbar ? is this the way it's supposed to be ? i'd think you'd need a small buck/boost converter for a stable 12/24/48 volts, but maybe it has one already inside the GX. edit: went to the manual, leaving this here in case someone finds it useful. YES, it is 100% the correct way. yes it has a voltage converter inside, and yes it's supposed to be this way so it gets power straight from the batteries.
This video is fantastic, thank you so much for putting it together! Can I ask, how has the HDMI extension and dedicated 12v power for the Touch 70 worked out, any problems? We may be doing something similar. Appreciate it!
Why use a 60 amp mega fuse on the 100|30? When it has a max fuse rating of 50 amps? Unless the links between the UA-cam video and your site aren’t matching up.
hello great video.My q is I have a container set up as office with kitchen and small toilet bathroom, could I set a 48 V system instead useing your plan to generate 8 kWh
My brain hurts. I just got a Ford Transit Trail and am starting to add stuff to it. Methinks I won't be doing anything as complex as this system, but I guess I will need to learn a ton in order to make things work.
Hi..just a quick question...if u have a 300amp fuse on the linx shunt, why do you need to put a terminal fuse on battery...just curious as to why you need both? Thanks..Paul
The one in the Lynx Shunt is redundant in this system, but omitting the fuse on the battery terminal would leave the wire going to the lynx shunt unprotected.
Can you tell me the panel thickness you’re fastening all the components to, especially the inverter. I’m thinking of converting my installation from through hole nuts/bolts on 3/4” boards to screws for ease of repair/ weight reduction? Thanks. Great video…. From one of the 6 that continued watching. 😉
Hi Nate, I have been buying your wiring diagram for 400a + 3k multiplus and getting prepared to install it. I also watched most of your videos (thanks you for that!! Very useful.). I dont think you discussed a topic I have seen on other channels witch is a bit confusing for me; pre-charging the capacitors of the invertor when turning the system ON. It looks like its a good idea to limit capacitive inrush current but I dont see a resistor in your diagram. Is there something I'm missing? Is this needed is such a setup? Cheers
GREAT video (I know... you've heard that already) :) Can you clarify the 30AMP shore power, but installing a 50AMP breaker in the 120V AC box. Is that because of the need to have more than 30AMP for possible use of the "power" assist from the inverter charge controller? (hopefully that question made sense) :)
Ive been installing 12v electrics in cars/caravans for 20 something years, I still watched your video through till the end. The time you have taken to plan and deliver a concise message for this install is commendable. I’ll definitely be sending this video to people who are asking me for help in the future! Well done
Hey, Scott Doyle! I appreciate that. Thanks for watching! 🙂😀
I share Scott's opinion. This is about as close to a proper "how to" video as you can legally get on UA-cam. Excellent reference material. I plan to install a similar system in my 50A RV and will be referencing this video as well as visiting your store for the applicable install kits.
Thanks Sean! 😁👍
@@EXPLORISTlife great video only thing missing is how to wire your alternator and starter battery to your house bank. can we get a video on this?
@@willyum1208 Did you perhaps see the section of the video that specifically addressed that?
I am paraplegic laying down in my bed for two years. I don’t have a convention van and I’m watching this video for almost an hour. More like 160,000 people watching this video
💕🙌
You still have a great mind and are using it. God Bless you 😊
Best wishes
*Hey there! Thanks for tuning in. I've got a metric ton of additional info hidden behind the 'read more' link below, so be sure to click that to check out all of the supplemental info for this video as you'd definitely be missing out on some important stuff if you don't.*
System Cost Analysis: ua-cam.com/video/Tkbj51mOhKg/v-deo.html
*Parts for this system:*
➤EXPLORIST.life Wiring Kit: shop.explorist.life/shop/all-products/camper-wiring-kits/complete-wiring-kits/540ah-3000w-24v-multiplus-580w-to-1700w-solar/
➤Heated 270Ah Battle Born Batteries: battlebornbatteries.com/product/12v-gc3-lifepo4-heated-battery-kit/?afmc=explorist_bb67
✅Use code 'explorist' for $50 off per battery.
➤Wiring Diagram: shop.explorist.life/shop/all-products/plans-and-diagrams/solar-wiring-diagrams/540ah-battery-bank-3000w-24v-multiplus-580w-1700w-solar-wiring-diagram-explorist-life-2021-ford-transit-camper-van/
➤*Other wiring kits that may be helpful:* shop.explorist.life/product-category/all-products/camper-wiring-kits/
➤*Wiring Diagrams for other systems:* www.explorist.life/solarwiringdiagrams
*Binge the Transit Van Build:* ua-cam.com/play/PLmvhcyi4n0TVfA4XCYJBkzfUXunSON1zX.html
*OTHER ELECTRICAL PROJECTS ON THIS VAN WE TACKLED BEFORE THIS VIDEO:*
➤INSTALLING OUR ROOFTOP SOLAR ARRAY: ua-cam.com/video/zspCRKAFxKA/v-deo.html
➤INSTALLING OUR 24V DC AIR CONDITIONER: ua-cam.com/video/G1oqnxNJDog/v-deo.html
➤HOW TO WIRE USB OUTLETS: ua-cam.com/video/X1tQWYXY2Fc/v-deo.html
➤HOW TO WIRE 12V OUTLETS: ua-cam.com/video/_nGbtOH5Dk0/v-deo.html
➤HOW TO WIRE PUCK LIGHTS: ua-cam.com/video/o-YlpzrnuzI/v-deo.html
➤HOW TO WIRE 12V DIMMERS: ua-cam.com/video/dn77-CbxR4g/v-deo.html
➤HOW TO WIRE 12V 3-WAY SWITCHES: ua-cam.com/video/WRQuVMFlric/v-deo.html
➤HOW TO WIRE RELAYS: ua-cam.com/video/mTH1Uc_L2M8/v-deo.html
➤WIRING 120V OUTLETS, SWITCHES, AND GFCI: ua-cam.com/video/en6Q2L6Bf3A/v-deo.html
➤INSTALLING A 30A SHORE POWER INLET: ua-cam.com/video/WDAzwaEWUT4/v-deo.html
*Regarding the shore power wire gland referenced at **44:24**.* Check this video at 30:22: ua-cam.com/video/01F4QDVJUq0/v-deo.html
*We installed our enclosure to the L-Track in the floor. Here's a video of us installing that:* ua-cam.com/video/6H7TvKNrwN0/v-deo.html
*Aluminum Extrusion Enclosure Info:* Working on it. Comment if you want it and I'll follow up with you when it's ready.
*Programming Parameters*: I've added the basic settings we used to the product description of our wiring kit here: shop.explorist.life/shop/all-products/camper-wiring-kits/complete-wiring-kits/540ah-3000w-24v-multiplus-580w-to-1700w-solar/
How about listing out some of those electrical tools - lug crimpers etc - and links? Thanks.
@@5FWS5 For sure! I've got all of that listed out here: ua-cam.com/video/KGDMaoe63zk/v-deo.html
Hi, did I miss the Sketchup file? I don't see it listed here. Thanks folks!
Once again, thanks for your comprehensive videos! My biggest hurdle (after buying the van) has been sourcing materials. Stuff like "what kind of wood should this be?" or "what's a good price for x?" It's incredibly frustrating to buy something only to realize you've been taken for an extra 50-100%. Because of its popularity there is just so much out there.
Your shop and material recommendations are solid, with good prices. It's definitely possible to get lower prices, but if one doesn't have 3 months to wait for a sale, or does not want to endlessly pick up metal shavings around the garage, your shop is a fantastic place to start.
Hey thanks so much for this info. Can you please link out the aluminum extrusion info? Thanks!
A magnificent demonstration! I have always respected your skills and talent for explaining so concisely. Bravo!
One point that gave me a shiver; the PCB ground connection wire on the negative buss has a RED terminal ring on the end!! That is a bit misleading. Design flaw at Victron?
Hey George, I sure appreciate that! It means a lot coming from someone who has the impeccable attention to detail that you do. Thanks for watching!
I also hate how smaller ring terminals like that are color coded. Traditionally, the small ring terminals (18-22awg) have red heat shrink on them (14-16 are blue, 10-12 are yellow, and then red again for 8ga (because there are apparently only three colors?) but this definitely leads to a bad feeling when trying to connect a small wire with red insulation because of it's size to a negative busbar.
This video is a masterpiece! Thank you guys for such a hard job, putting all that together and sharing it with us!
Hey, Victor and MJ! I appreciate that. Thanks for watching! 🙂😀
Ya’ll have done it again! Great walk through of an efficient 24v system. Thanks Nate and Steph!
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
Incredible. I've spent the last two weeks researching how to do just this. I wake up to this tutorial. Unbelievable. Thank you so much
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
hes talented no doubt
Thanks 88corinutza! 😁👍
One of the best all around electrical videos on the internet for van builds, thank you so much for putting this together! I’m in the process of gutting and upgrading the electrical system in our class C, and while I can’t quite afford all the high end stuff you have here, it’s still extremely useful from a planning perspective. Now if only the price of copper would go down… 🤨 Keep up the good work, the world of DIY really appreciates it!
Hey, Jordan B! I appreciate that. Thanks for watching! 🙂😀
This is also a tutorial on how to make tutorials. I'm not building a camper any time soon but the explanations of the principles of how to wire up solar and batteries is so good that I can't stop watching. Also appreciate that you didn't edit out your small mistakes, instead explaining what you did to fix them. And the fact that you provided links to the sections. You've set a new standard here for tutorial videos.
Hey, Steve Foster! I appreciate that. Thanks for watching! 🙂😀
Excellent comment, Steve!
I know right. There's no way I could do this I was having dreams about it because I'm messing with solar. I was having dreams that I could almost try to start doing this kind of thing for people. But there's no way I don't think I could get good enough. I didn't realize people have been doing this for so long. There are quite a few people that are very good at it
Nate and Steph, Thank you! Finally a power supply instructional installation video! Thank you for clearly and explaining everything in layman's terms.
Hey Daniel Vermeer, No problem! Glad it helped! :)
Wow!!! The quality of your tutorials is light years ahead of anything I have ever seen on youtube! The attention to detail, the professional filming/editing, the pedagogical explanations, everything! Having this freely available is mind-blowing.
And this comes from a non-native English speaker from Europe used to the simplicity of the metric system, who gets the chills every time some weird units pop up, like 4/0, 5/16", 6 gauge and whatnot :D. Kudos for the work on the Closed-Captions that make even these confusing units/words accessible :)
Unfortunately, the mismatch in units/electrical systems means I probably won't be buying many kits from your website, but I wish your business to prosper nonetheless and I will for sure keep on watching more of your videos :).
I appreciate that! Thanks for watching.
I totally agree you spoke it so much better than my comment. What an amazing video. Everything you said was right on the money
The most helpful video I have ever watched on UA-cam. Being a good van builder I’ve always had a fear of the electrics. This is helping me a lot. This video needs to reach near and far, to help people out. Well done
Hey, BigBadKoz! I appreciate that. Thanks for watching! 🙂😀
@@EXPLORISTlife he's si right and thanks again‼️
Thank you for teaching me 90% of what I now know! Any reason you chose 100% copper lugs vs tinned copper lugs?
Tinned lugs are more expensive and are really only necessary for marine environments like boats where the salty sea air corrodes exposed metal.
Your content is incredible in every way. Id really expect to be paying for this kind of tutorial but you are giving it away for free - how awesome is that!
I appreciate that!
You're so correct space shed this will come back to him in many ways I'm sure. What great Karma. To be helping all of us like he is
Seems like a lot I don't even think I would ever attempt it. Why can't you just connect 2 to 4 batteries together as one then connect a 10000 watt inverter to it & that's all ready to go.
No means of recharging the batteries? No way to tell how full your batteries are?
Nice box we did something similar a couple months ago! Love using 80/20, best DIY friendly building material out there!
It's super cool. Definitely takes more planning than wood only, but I love how easy it is to put together and take apart as the plan changes or we want to add stuff.
I am confused, how does the 24V and 12V both use the chassis as ground? I would think that this may cause an issue
Why has no-one mentioned this? It's EXACTLY what I'm stuck on myself!
What happens if a 230v touches the chassis and rushes back to this distributor. Am I to believe it just safely passes through ALL of my 12/24v hardware WITHOUT causing damage to find itself back at the RCD to safely trip?!
Amazing! I think I'm going to do the exact same layout and really love the details in this video. Can't wait for the alternator install video. Going to the store to get these new plans. Thanks again for the killer tutorial.
No problem. Happy to help!
I know right amazing Josh
@@VinceBadovinatz88 ended up doing this plan minus solar and added 2 12-24V DC+to+DC chargers. Love it so far with 4 weeks on the road and counting.
@@joshedcostanza I really like that dc-to-dc charger. I can't believe how much I like that install. It is so amazing glad you did yours had are having a great time
I'm trying to decide between the $78 iwiss crimping tool for the $98 wirefy I kind of like the iwiss
I already brought bought iwiss battery lug crimper. I don't have it yet I sent for it I'm probably going to stick with the iwiss
Unless I hear different from you I think I saw you had wirefy
ua-cam.com/video/KGDMaoe63zk/v-deo.html
Thank you . I found the big wire crimper the Temco I left a message earlier but deleted it stating I couldn't find it. But I finally Googled it and found it. the one I bought I probably will send that back and get that temco. That's the beauty part about Amazon😁
I couldn’t thank you enough for this very precise video. I keep watching it over and over this is by far the best out there ❤ thank you
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
I know you're right. And I really have to watch it a lot of times
Even remotely think I'm going to get it right
That's not a Camper Van.. that my good sir is a rolling power plant.
🤣😂👍👍
Y'all put so much into this I'm very impressed with the energy and dedication y'all have 👍🏻👍🏻 and thanks again for the help on wiring you gave me.
Hey, Indubitably! I appreciate that. Thanks for watching! 🙂😀
I'm curious if you could speak more about why you chose Battle Born batteries? They seem to be the popular option for DIYers, but the few engineers I know that are upgrading their battery systems in their RV/camper van (both in real life and on UA-cam) have all gone with Lithionics. The Fit RV did a factory tour of Lithionics that made it seem like a better option. I'd love to hear you talk about your view on the different battery brands (if you can - I'd understand if you weren't able if Battle Born is your sponsor). Thanks!
Sure! So it really comes down to customer support. When I am recommending a battery, the brand I am recommending needs to:
->Be able to sell the battery (aka: keep it in stock)
->Have fast shipping times
->Have great customer support to answer questions about their products (pre and post sale)
->Have great tech support to help troubleshoot if something isn't working properly
->A no-hassle warranty process where they don't try to weasel out of warranty coverage.
Battle Born checks ALL of these boxes AND they have high quality batteries to match.
There are other battery manufacturers out there who have great batteries, but they just don't check the rest of those boxes in my own personal experience.
Absolutely outstanding! I love all the detail and precision in your work and explanations!
Do you offer one on one classes? I’ve been converting buses for about 2 1/2 years now and I have a lot of knowledge but you my friend are incredible.
Not one on one; no. I'd rather focus on making these videos to help thousands simultaneously instead of spending my time focusing on only the people who can pay for my time. Everything you need to design and build these systems is already available through my videos, no one-on-one help required.
Wow! What a great video. You are doing a great service to everyone doing campervan conversions. Thanks!
Glad it was helpful. Cheers!
Your video was so professional I thought I was watching an episode of How It's Made. Absolutely amazing video quality and narration. Extremely well done, thank you for the content!!
Wow, thank you!☺️
Excelleny tutorials! Congrats from Europe.
I plan to build my own van in a couple of years from now when I retire, so I still have time to learn! By then, I expect cost of batteries to have reduced and EV charging points to have expanded.
Have you considered an increased battery bank that could be re-charger at EV charging stations? and if so, which inverter/charger would you use?
i appreciate the video Im setting up my first solar system, going with a setup very similar to this, 4 450w solar panels, 2 200ah 12v batteries, multiplus 24/3k/70, mppt 150/100, and orion dc to dc.. my question is all of your layouts and tutorials say to use 4/0 for the battery cables and i see you only use 1/0, also the multiplus recommends 1/0 with 300a fuse. my question is did you change your opinion? can i use 1/0 because i have them all crimped and ready to go, im just waiting on my lynx.. but if i need 4/0 i will use it. thank you in advance
What software are you using to make the wiring diagrams?
Hi, Nate. This is an old video, so I don't know if you'll see this post, but I have a question about wire sizing. I have 4 105 ah Lion Energy LiFePo4 batteries, wired in Parallel, using 2/0 welders cable. My longest run is about 6'. I'm considering buying 2 more batteries. Can I still use the 2/0 wire, or do I need to up it to 4/0? Thx for all your videos. They're the best.
I see you connected your solar charge controllers equipment grounds to the Multiplus equipment ground and the Multiplus equipment ground to the Lynx Distributor ground terminal. I'm in the process of installing a Multiplus-II 50A/120V inverter/charger and Lynx Distributor with a solar charge controller in my Motorhome. MY Multiplus-II is mounted about 12 feet away from the rest of my components and batteries. My battery cables are 4/0 as is the battery cables running to my Multiplus-II 12 feet away. My plan is to attach a 4/0 ground wire from the Multiplus-II directly to the motor home chassis-frame and also to ground the Lynx Distributor ground in a similar fashion to the same motorhome chassis-frame rail, but 12' away from where I grounded the Multiplus-II. Is this grounding strategy sound? Thanks.
Very nice job. I'm traveling on a sailboat in SE asia. We need to do a full LifePo4 upgrade. I'm considering just ordering your kits from the US.
Thank you for this video. Il very helpfull and very informative. With the 24/12 volts , when i read "can achieve an efficiency of 92%", I understand, when i use 92 watts with my 12 volts appliances, it's take 100 watts in the battery bank, i have right or not ? Do you think the battery model of 24 volts it better for the battery life, the wire heat and this model will expend in the futur ? Thanks again for all information you give to us.
How long could you power that 24v A/C unit off this system? Would there be a possibility of an interruption if it was a cloudy hot day using it and you intended on using it through the night? Would it be crazy to add more batteries such as 6 or 8 100Ah? Could you add more of these giant batteries and still accomplish a 24v system?
Why did you run 6 awg to the DC fuse panels? Is it because you installed 2 DC fuse panels and need to double the amp rating? If you only had one DC fuse panel, would 10 awg work instead? Thanks for the information.
Although a year plus ago; great video, ow and you guys with the awg’s ? I must admit in Netherland we still use the good old thumb, or halve a thumb for pipe fittings, a thunderstorm is an inch hehe . Anyway I am going to look how you installed you paneling, looks really stylish industrial which I seek for my van. Anyway, best regards, Albert 🇳🇱
I too spend much time at 3000m elevation and have flooded batteries. Can/should I heat them? Intuitively seems contraindicated. Another unreal vid, thanks! ps I have little experience with electrical. Do you think I could buy some stuff from you strictly to create a small scale learning workbench, and use say a single solar panel? I'd probably get a bona fide controller and other essential bits but would like to scale down as much as feasible.
So, if there's an exposed AC wire touching the van and then a human, that load will go through the earth cable into a lynx distributor running at that point, 12v? Surely that would damage it no? 🤨
@silvioaraujomusic
I have been trying to find the 12vdc distribution box not able to find your type used in this video. hides the wires behind the bulkhead. Please the link to it. Thanks, great video!
We have these batteries and were planning on 12v, but we bought the quattro 24v5000va120amp inverter, can we still use it as 12v or do we have to go 24v? Can’t find any info on this?
19:34 : I am currently building my system and am wondering why I need to ground the components to the chassis, if the trailer itself isn’t grounded anyways? It’s only standing on the wheels and on plastic blocks when I am drycamping, so there is no “ground connection” to the ground/earth that it is standing on.
Thank you!!
Wow. So much detail. All I was looking for was how to wire up a 100/30 charge controller and I still watched the video start to finish. One question though - is the heater circuit for the batteries fused? I have a self heating BattleBorn battery and they sent a massive wire kit with it but it seems to standard jumper wire is not fused.
Nate. What size of fuse would I use in the distributor? 8 battle born in 24v s/p config with 3960W from panels?
One of the best most comprehensive build videos I have seen. As a tech who builds these systems in mobile command posts I have two pieces of advise.
First, Only use the washers and nuts that come with the battery fuse terminals. These terminals pull current through the first washer and simply tossing a stainless steel washer in there will heat up enough to burn your hands, melt plastic and even start a fire.
Second, would be to include some active cooling in that enclosure. Inverters get very hot and a simple PC fan on a thermal switch circuit can extend the life of everything in that enclosure.
Less of a technical comment and more of a preference would be to hit all that birch plywood with some wipe on poly, wax or some other clear coat to keep the wood from staining. Even the sweat from your hands can leave marks on the birch ply and if you are OCD your gonna go nuts.
Hey TheReefaholic, thanks for watching!
Re: 1: Of course! That's exactly what we did. Battle Born batteries come with two lengths of bolts for their battery terminals. We used the shorter of the two they supplied.
Re: 2: There is about 27sq/in of ventilation around the back of the enclosure and around the lid, which should be adequate based on the hundreds of systems I've consulted on. *If it's NOT adequate*, I'll add a fan controlled either by enclosure temperature or have the fan turn on when the multiplus fans turn on. I'll make a video teaching how to do this if I end up needing to do it. I don't anticipate needing this, but that's the plan if I do.
Re: 3: We did back when we installed the walls. Here's the video for that: ua-cam.com/video/cf2BjQxMKDI/v-deo.html
"And only I and the 6 people still watching this video will ever know about it."
400.000 views later... 😂
Very nice video. Only if you would also use the metric numbers for the wires and components.. that would make it perfect. I don't understand why why americans have to use their own stupid nonsense
Do I need the smart dongle if I have the Cerbo GX and SmartShunt with my Multiplus 12/3k?
I was curious the support rib you used on the wall or floor of the van? Sorry if that’s a dumb question
What type of bolts do you use to connect the main battery cable to the lynx shunt? Brass? Copper? zinc? M8 bolts made of what material?
Could this set up, in theory be used for travel trailer or do you have recommendations for such. 29ftx8ft.
Do you offer a complete set of written instructions with pictures on everything an what you didn't get into on this DIY installation of this system. If so were can I order this?
What size cables are connecting the Multiplus to the Lynx distributor? Looks like 2/0? Thanks
Is the solar isolater necessary for just one array? Could another single circuit disconnect be used? Similar to the battery disconnect?
I was wonder why you needed 2 lynx distributor, you wired in a 24vDC air conditioner. Nice
Hi! Yet another very informative and awesome video! Thank you!
Do you ever see the need to have individual breakers which would be allow various parts of the system (DC-DC Charger, Solar Charge Controllers, etc.) to be easily isolated/switched off? I like the Lynx Distributor but the only way to isolate a portion of the system would be to remove a fuse.
Nope. I can't really think of a reason why it's worth putting a bunch of extra connections (points of failure and resistance) to have that functionality. It'd be pretty rare that I'd need to shut one charging/discharging source down without shutting all of them down.
is that almost 6.4kWh of capacity, what are they even running?
Hey buddy! Love your videos. What is the name of the female usb to iPhone adapter you use ? And where can I buy one?
I have massive problems assembling Ikea furniture. For that reason I'm out.
😂🤣 That's okay. We have a network of installers available for hire as well: explorist.life/find-a-certified-installer/
this is spectacular! Highly recommend!
What was the total cost of this project including exhaust fan air conditioner and solar panels?
One thing I do not get is: what is responsible for balancing voltage/charge between two batteries in series?
How much it cost the all thing
Around $5000
Opinion on a new builder and general build time frame? Assuming I have everything and follow your guide, do you think I could get this done in a month if I had around 4 hours a day?
Electrical system is a sub one-week installation given you have everything on hand (like we have in our shop.explorist.life kits)
how works the ground un this case? if exist any leak, they not electrify the chasis?
How can I use 3-5 mppt in such a system? Are there communication ports hubs ?
Thanks guys!!! I watched the entire video and this is just what I needed. Super clear instructions. Thanks for taking the time to make this detailed video!
Hey PWags, No problem! Glad it helped! :)
So true
How can i get a simple , run a frig ,shaver maybe. In a 2020 toyota sienna,xle..dont want to light up a city,,just keep things,food cold frig safely running..help..vince..exhausted from watching vids...love em though..
If literally all you need is just a fridge and a shaver, something like a Jackery or a goal zero should work just fine.
I have Studer 50A - 2 input / 3 output battery isolator which has two 240v battery chargers, a small solar array and the alternator connected to it, and three battery banks. I want to replace my leisure battery bank with Lithium. Can i fit a DC _ DC charge controller between the isolator and the lithium battery bank?
This may take a more in-depth look at your personal setup. If you have purchased/are purchasing from our store (shop.explorist.life) reach out for some more personalized help: shop.explorist.life/support
If you've purchased/are purchasing elsewhere, reach out to your dealer for support. We'd love to have you as a shop.explorist.life customer so we can provide a bit more help in the future. 🙂
@EXPLORISTlife - I recently started binge-watching your various Academy playlists, and watched this video as well as your other van install video. I consider myself pretty handy when it comes to home improvement stuff (woodworking, 110v electrical, plumbing) but I am a new boat owner and RV owner and I have learned a tremendous amount from your videos in just a short time. As an advanced DIY'er, I'm particularly impressed by your attention to detail - things like scuffing up the cable lugs, wiping contact down with alcohol, tightening fasteners to the appropriate torque, edge-banding your cabinetry, etc.
One thing I did notice, however, was that when you attached the 12v cables from the A/C to the distributor, you did not put the plastic divider back into place between the cables. Was this intentional? Similarly, I noticed that when you connected the 12v cables to the shunt, you attached one to the back of the tab and one to the front. Was this to reduce the overlap between the two cables?
Keep up the great work, so that the rest of us can get draw inspiration and aspire to your level of workmanship!
The divider did indeed go back into place. Perhaps it just didn't make it into the video.
I try to avoid overlap of cables whenever possible, yes.
Hey Guys!!! Fab video, This is so neat!!!
If I was to remain with similar install but a 12V AC system and 3000W inverter, What Lith Batteries would you recommend 2 or 3 x 100Ah or 1 x 250 Ah - Also what rating mega fuse are you using for your Solar??
Thanks
This is what you're after: shop.explorist.life/shop/all-products/camper-wiring-kits/complete-wiring-kits/wiring-diagram-kits/camper-van/explore-van-wiring-kit/#start-with-your-base-kit
I do not understand why you use 12 or 24 V inverters ? 5000 VA ==> 463 AMPS for 12 V system, 232 AMPS for 24 V system, 113 AMPS for 48 V system, 55 AMPS for 96 V system.
This video covers that, specifically: ua-cam.com/video/sEW-ZaOOlq0/v-deo.html
I'm noticing that you're using copper battery wire. Is the marine-grade pre-tinned cable overkill? I live along the Gulf coast in rainy and humid conditions. @EXPLORISTlife
None of the connections in your vehicle are tinned, for what that’s worth, and is why we don’t feel the added expense is worth it.
Wow, you did/do a lot of work .... for this update. Good job .. this one will be around for years. I am glad Battleborn and maybe Victron has given a lot that would cost me more than I can imagine.
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
Great video! Did you ever do a video for charging off of the vehicle alternator?
Whats is the name of the wiring diagram in this video on your website?
Tons of great information and great detail in every aspect. I would ask how the Battle Born batteries have held up? Have they meet the standards you expected? I am torn between Lithonics and BB. Thanks and keep the great videos coming.
We've been working with Battle Born since 2017, so we've got a pretty lengthy track record of their batteries working in our systems, yes.
I did a quick google on how to wire up the heating on the batteries but didn't see an indepth explanation how it works. If I saw correctly, you wired up both battery heaters to the +24V terminal of the battery. I'm assuming the second terminal for the heating of each battery is the respective ground terminal of the battery. So either I have missed something or I don't understand it: if both battery heating + terminals are hooked up to 24V and their respective negative terminals are at 12V and 0 (zero) volts, then one heater is working at 24V and the other at 12V. What am I missing here?
Wouldn't they both be at 24v since the batteries are hooked in series? Both grounds thus having 24v..?
My off grid home (6kw solar array) uses all Victron gear and it has been very reliable for 5 years now. By comparison, there are a lot of cheap chinese PV to AC inverters used in solar installs that are junk in a few years. But I would *not* use Lithium batteries........even the Li-Fe-PO4 batteries have been catching on fire. Recently a large Tesla/GenX battery farm near Rockhampton Australia caught on fire, and it used that supposedly "safe" chemistry batteries. Almost all of these LiFePO4 batteries are cheap chinese made with no providence of quality or durability.
You don't have to use LiFePO4, making a blanket statement saying that they are all 'cheap Chinese made with no providence of quality or durability' is simply untrue. Thanks for watching, though!.
By far the best electrical tutorial for a van conversion. Thanks so much y'all when I start my rig I will def. look up and buy your products. Bookmarking this page.
Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
What if you have only one Lynx Distributor, would you just double up on the 1 Lnyx for chassis ground over the Multiplus ground? Or maybe use a shunt to connect two grounds into the Lynx?
This may take a more in-depth look at your personal setup. If you have purchased/are purchasing from our store (shop.explorist.life) reach out for some more personalized help: shop.explorist.life/support
If you've purchased/are purchasing elsewhere, reach out to your dealer for support. We'd love to have you as a shop.explorist.life customer so we can provide a bit more help in the future. 🙂
The only improvement victron could do, that I think would make this easier was if all the different "blue boxes" would use the same communication method. EG using all RJ45 cabling. This would make the install easier and cleaner, with custom made cable lengths. And maybe the GX com could power and communicate with the touch screen via POE.
I'm not even building any systems like this, but great video!!
Yeah, that would indeed be nice.
1st I would like to say Thank you, to you & to everyone involved is this project! I guess my only questions would be, at the time of this build (Sep 25, 2022), what was the cost of parts and labor in general. I;m not looking for individual cost, just overall parts and overall labor, so I have a general idea...Thank you Again!
Thanks! Curious... but why do you want to know the price of the build when we built it instead of the price as it is today? The links to current pricing for the kits and such are in the video description & pinned comment.
I really do enjoy these videos. I must have watched it 20 times. One question: Should there not be a shore-power disconnect? While pedestals have breakers, what if we're just charging from a normal 15-amp outlet? How would you remove the load before unplugging?
You'd simply plug in or disconnect. You don't have to turn off a breaker before disconnecting much like you dont have to turn off a house breaker to plug in or unplug your toaster. Just turn the toaster off before yanking the plug.
Hi Nate,
Great video as usual-and timely for us as we are starting on our 24V system. I particularly liked the dual solar setup. Do you have a preferred source for the ground solar array port? Idea for a future video: Cerbo GX vs BMV-712 battery monitor.
That port will soon be an add-on for our solar array wiring kits, but until then, I've included it in the 'other parts required' section of the kit for this build: shop.explorist.life/shop/all-products/camper-wiring-kits/complete-wiring-kits/540ah-3000w-24v-multiplus-580w-to-1700w-solar/
Cerbo GX vs BMV-712 is definitely a video on the horizon now that we've made this video.
I know it's from a year ago, so the odds of getting an answer are slim to none, but why is the GX hooked straight to the 1000A busbar ? is this the way it's supposed to be ? i'd think you'd need a small buck/boost converter for a stable 12/24/48 volts, but maybe it has one already inside the GX.
edit: went to the manual, leaving this here in case someone finds it useful.
YES, it is 100% the correct way. yes it has a voltage converter inside, and yes it's supposed to be this way so it gets power straight from the batteries.
Indeed. 👍😁
This video is fantastic, thank you so much for putting it together! Can I ask, how has the HDMI extension and dedicated 12v power for the Touch 70 worked out, any problems? We may be doing something similar. Appreciate it!
So far so good. Be sure to bench test it before you bury it in the wall as it's very YMMV.
That's for a Van, looks like the inerds of the space shuttle.
Very impressive presentation with all the information and no irrelevant chatter. Well done and thanks.
Glad you liked it!
thankyou for your clear and well put toghther work, totally brillant.🤙🤜
No problem 👍
Why use a 60 amp mega fuse on the 100|30? When it has a max fuse rating of 50 amps? Unless the links between the UA-cam video and your site aren’t matching up.
50A MEGA fuses basically don't exist, so we have to round up.
hello great video.My q is I have a container set up as office with kitchen and small toilet bathroom, could I set a 48 V system instead useing your plan to generate 8 kWh
My brain hurts. I just got a Ford Transit Trail and am starting to add stuff to it. Methinks I won't be doing anything as complex as this system, but I guess I will need to learn a ton in order to make things work.
Learning is always a good thing!
Where can I find that solar port you installed on the outside of the van?
Hi..just a quick question...if u have a 300amp fuse on the linx shunt, why do you need to put a terminal fuse on battery...just curious as to why you need both? Thanks..Paul
The one in the Lynx Shunt is redundant in this system, but omitting the fuse on the battery terminal would leave the wire going to the lynx shunt unprotected.
Can you tell me the panel thickness you’re fastening all the components to, especially the inverter. I’m thinking of converting my installation from through hole nuts/bolts on 3/4” boards to screws for ease of repair/ weight reduction? Thanks. Great video…. From one of the 6 that continued watching. 😉
Sure! 3/4" ply. That's what all of our hardware kits for the mounting of each component is set up for as well.
Hi Nate, I have been buying your wiring diagram for 400a + 3k multiplus and getting prepared to install it. I also watched most of your videos (thanks you for that!! Very useful.). I dont think you discussed a topic I have seen on other channels witch is a bit confusing for me; pre-charging the capacitors of the invertor when turning the system ON. It looks like its a good idea to limit capacitive inrush current but I dont see a resistor in your diagram. Is there something I'm missing? Is this needed is such a setup? Cheers
It's not necessary with high quality battery with an adequate amount of storage capacity.
GREAT video (I know... you've heard that already) :) Can you clarify the 30AMP shore power, but installing a 50AMP breaker in the 120V AC box. Is that because of the need to have more than 30AMP for possible use of the "power" assist from the inverter charge controller? (hopefully that question made sense) :)
Yep! Exactly.
Ummmm, I’ll just stick with my Jackery 1500 and two 100 watt solar panels. It powers my laptop, lights and fridge nonstop.
Great! I'm glad you found what works for you.
This satisfies my electrical OCD so much! nice job!
Cleaning all terminals with alcohol was pretty hardcore