Yes, agreed, they are much better. I have some on order and intend to change to them when they arrive. It was something that completely forgot during this Instalation 🥴 Schoolboy error...!!!
031421/1614h PST 🇺🇸 2314 GMT. Yes , of course, ferrules are necessary, but I’m sure the author would, eventually install ferrules, after crimping with ferrule crimper. Thank you, Fester stay safe. 73s...
@@TheWrinklyNomads another problem is,if you charge your main battery the victron will kick in and and think you are running the engine so this can take all the power and discharge your mainbattery ,been there done that,so just turn off when you need to charge your engine battery if you ever need to,probably not,i left my lights on all night
Thanks for the info. I'm in the middle of a van conversion. Started living in it over the summer. My 400W solar was working great with my 240Ah battery bank until this autumn. The dull days really wasn't allowing the solar to charge the batteries to full power after several days, as you mentioned also. I've got the non isolated 30Amp DC/DC Victron charger and an extra 120Ah battery (my current bank is only 3 months old). I'll be fitting all that next week. Cheers for the heads up with the app etc.
I've been looking at which DC-DC charger for my system and your video has been very interesting and useful. I have now decided to go for Victron rather than CTEK which was my initial idea. It appears from your video that the bluetooth set up is straightforward and it will be good to have a display on the phone to confirm the status etc. I am DIY competent, but not experienced with vehicle electrics and it is not easy to be confident in deciding on the appropriate kit. It helps a lot to hear that your enthusiasm for a product is not skewed by freebies from a company ! Thanks for the excellent video.
Thank you.. The ability to change settings to suit you system and the app are really useful. Plus, Victron is very good gear. I am very happy with this setup and works well. ATB, Steve
031421/1600h PST 🇺🇸 - 2300h GMT. Thank you for the descriptive description of your design, installation and commissioning of your System. Frankly, the enclosure looked like Jewelry Box, quite meticulously made. We don’t get to see such precision, these days. I observed, several safety precautions by the way of overload/short protection trip devices; funds spent well. I learned a few more, though mind boggling. (for me.) That said, wishing you more enjoyable road trips, ahead. Take care and 73s...
Nice easy explanation, cleared up a few things in my mind. One point, why the 150 amp trip whereas Victron recommend 2x 60A, one on the starter battery cableand one on the leisure battery cable? Thanks
The dc to dc charger needs a 60 Amp trip as per manufactures instructions, depending on the temperature were used as the 30 amp can go much higher if nice and cool. Cheers doing the same set up.
Hi, I was thinking same thing. I just bought the same Victron which I’m fitting next week, need to order some fuses but don’t know weather to get30A or 60A, did you get any further information on this ?
Great video! I've got a similar Victron Orion DC to DC charger which charges my Goal Zero power station. It's great when the days are short and lots of rain here in Vancouver. Drive a couple hours and my Yeti 1000 power station is fully charged. I've got the isolated version, but the 12/24 15amp version. Running this setup for 6 months and it's great! I don't have solar panels on my van either. Thanks for doing this video!
I’m impressed. Those Yeti power stations are so good. I’ve got a lower powered Power Oak as a back up, but couldn’t survive without solar!!!! ATB, Steve
Just finished my electric install in my 2020 Transit 250 HR-EL, got the Onan 2800i installed underneath, finished the Orion Tr-Smart this week, was a little sketchy on the programming, but you straightened me right out. Very succinct information and video. Thanks!
The best easy explanation I have seen thank you. I want yo use the same system as you have but I am not sure where I can fit the b2b I hear they get hot.
Hi Paul, They do get warm, but not excessively hot... As long as it's mounted on a non flammable surface and, ideally, use spacers to mount off the surface, it is fine. ATB, Steve
depending on the alternator you could use two of them dc to dc chargers for a faster charge with roughly 70amp intake but i would also put some kind of metal heatsink under the charger as its direct on laminate they can draw a lot of heat i love the setup also consider 12v fans for cooling i can not wait to do my build
Hi Harry, Yes, that's perfectly doable. I've seen a few videos with people who have added an additional B2B with great success. There was no need for any additional cooling either. ATB, Steve
Thanks, I was confused by the diagram in the manual that shows + and - connections from the starter battery to the alternator. Would these be the vehicle standard alternator to starter battery connections? Ken.
Today I setup my Victron B2B following your brilliant Vlog however one thing almost put me off as when I fired up the B2B with the load connections disconnected the Bluetooth light didn’t start flashing as you said ? It only started flashing after I’d made a connection with my mobile phone and Applied the default password 000000. I panicked a little! thinking I had a dud, but all’s well, so thanks 🙏
Great video which you have presented very well. I am going to use a similar setup and I note you mentioned running your fridge on mains via the inverter, three questions 1) is it a standard 3-way fridge 3) what current does it draw from the battery 3) Can you find out from the B2B what the voltage is of the starter battery and leisure battery with the engine off. Thanks
Thank you Brian. 1) yes standard 3way fridge 2) 10 amps when on 230V 3) yes, using the app, it will show engine volts when off and when running the charge volts. ATB, Steve
Nice clear and easy to understand video. I get why you used the 2 x 30amp trips on either side of the b2b but why the 150amp trip near the starter battery? I'm not trying to be critical just trying to gain knowledge.
A very important factor is angling the solar panels more inclined to the sun, even if behind cloud. The better the sun or light is tracked, the more power to your batteries, it’s proven flat panels on the roof of a van are not as good But that’s for explaining the B 2 B, certainly worth a thought, always wondered how they work over a split charge relay
Yeah, it’s changed around a bit since the video. The 150A was battery side with the other 30A breaker next to the B2B. Kept the 30 but changed to 60A at battery. Thanks for watching and your comments though 👍🏼 ATB, Steve
Not quite as easy as it sounds. Different batteries have different parameters, so their settings are not all the same. I just concentrated on the batteries that I have.
Do you need a breaker between the bus bar and battery on the positive? I wasn’t going to bother as the blade fuse holder will trip if any problems. Thanks for the vid, your wiring is immaculate 👍
Hi mate really enjoyed this video I would love to fit this to my Adria but not sure about electrical side of things , I do know I have a solar panel and 2 leisure batteries in my van and I sure would love to install the btb unit just a wee bit apprehensive about it , Im now a subscriber to your channel as you have an excellent way of presenting and showing your upgrades , I might just keep watching this over and over to gain some confidence , I take it I just ignore anything else that is connected and just do as your video just fitting the 2 breakers the cabeling and the btb? Don't need to add anything to fuse box , sorry if my question is too long, take care look forward to more of your videos .
UK Preppers Guide yeah but folks are saying it will not work as there is a existing trickle charger furred to motorhomes and do i need to fit fuses ont o the install
Hello Steve...just come across your channel and you now have one more subscriber...I am about to commence on my wrinkly journey and move to van life.. My first question of no doubt many: Does the DC to DC charger do away with the need for a split relay set up to charge the leisure batteries? Thanks again....Chris
Hi Chris If you have the older lead acid batteries, the split charge relay will be fine. A B2B charger is required for AGM or Lithium as they have much different charge characteristics than the lead acid. If you fit a B2B then you don't need the split charger. Good luck with your van conversion. ATB, Steve
You probably had no choice but use the under bunk that has has gas pipes, otherwise I'd keep gas and electricity as far apart as possible. Like your 'busbars' but could you cover them up to prevent anything falling onto the live? Brilliant idea to have both the live and return protected by a trip and isolating switch cut off.
Hi David I have a several gas dump grills to the outside by those has valves. Also the solid wood barrier above, so it’s quite safe. The live bussbar does have a cover over all terminals, didn’t fit it back till the end. I put isolation just about anywhere.... 🥴 Probably too much.! Appreciate the comments, keep safe, Steve
I have good experience with victron in general. However Orion b2b 30A charger is absolute nightmare for lifepo4 batteries. Its only charge 30A for the first 5-10 minutes. Then drop to 27A after 1 hour of continuous charge drop to 25ish and eventually after 2 hours charge settle to 22 A for the rest of charging routine. I guess I have to be greatfull it works .
Hi Mark, So far I haven't had problems with the charge rate on my AGM's. Always found the Victron gear to be pretty bulletproof, Might be worth checking your settings for those LifePro4 batteries. Good luck, ATB, Steve
@@TheWrinklyNomads on agm battery victron pretty good. However due to low resistance lifepo4 can take maximum what victron orion can offer, 30a for hours that's where victron fail to supply probably due to overheating...
Excellent video... I'm in the process of installing the same Victron B2B charger to a Battleborn 100Ahr LiFePO4 battery without solar (yet?). The most confusing thing to me is to go isolated or not. I wonder if I can use the isolated unit wired to common ground and skip the neg wire run back to the battery?
i was going to run coax from my LiFePO4 back to a covered terminal strip which would just act like the remote terminals of my batt. Then it’s just s short run from the DC-DC to that and the start bat. But yes, with all connected why can’t you just connect the negative terminals.. must be a reason..
@@thekiteboatparty3568 my conclusion is if you run non-isolated you're using common ground, but there may be more risk to messing up your 'engine system. I've not been abvle to get a very straight answer from any anyone with the pros and cons of using either isolated or non-isolated. I was told that it may be possible that using a common grnd in a non-isolated unit it could defeat the charger.
I have saved this for later review once I get all the gear I need for my build. Great video looking to do this with a school bus conversion that comes with 3 batteries from the engine. There is a hot cable back to the end of the bus that had a chair lift that I think I can tie into for the hot. The lift also has a ground cable all the way down to the frame that I think I can put a buss bar in to ground everything to the frame that I put in. Is there a chart for converting the 16mm wire you used to the AWG (American standard)? I ask because I might need to re-run the hot that went into the lift, as it seems to be pretty thick cable that might have a issue getting into that B2B port. Thanks,
Hiya just joined channel and really well made video. Can you tell me what the red plastic sheet is that you use to mount the gear on? All neat and tidy 👍
Excellent video and a neat setup. If as you say you have 3 AGM’s, is the B2B charging all 3 at once, if 1 drops a cell will it detect it or start over gassing? My worry would be it could start over heating. Thanks.
Hi Graham, thank you. The Victron B2B detects the charge level and the will bulk charge, absorption or float charge accordingly. Much like the MPPT solar charger will. Also AGM batteries do no gas. All the electrolyte is absorbed in their separators unlike a normal vehicle battery. So far the B2B, with the AGM's has been pretty bulletproof.... ATB, Steve
Did I miss the part where you connected the b2b system to the alternator? Do youtubers not know about this detail? I haven't seen any video show it, do you pass on doing this? Do youtuber b2b systems run without using the alternator?
Hi Devonian, This particular Victron B2B does not connect directly to the alternator. I think that applies to most B2B's as well, but not entirely certain,,,? It is connected directly to the battery as shown 👍 ATB, Steve
Hello, I want to replace the batteries of my motorhome for a 300ah lithium. I bought the victron isolated smart dc-dc 12v 30 amps. Can I connect the victron changer with the wires that are currently connected to my auxiliary batteries (by adding 60 amp fuse protection at the input to the output) to my new lithium without modifying the old installation...
Depends on the wire gauge you already have. You will need a minimum of 16mm2 (6 AWG) maybe more if it is a long cable run. The 60 A fuse is ok though. ATB, Steve
Very tidy set up. I'm going to get one of these. Are you getting full 30Amps from it please? In the video it's showing an increase by roughly 20A but it wasn't on for a long time. Is it getting very hot? I haven't decided where to install it in my Sprinter due to heat.
Hi. When you first turn on the Bluetooth power on the victron which positive cable is turned on? The car battery or your AGM. I’m French 🇨🇦 and when you say leisure battery I’m not sure if that’s the car engine one or the agm. Thanks,
Hi Harry, I got them all from Amazon. Inline Fuse Circuit Breaker: amzn.to/3imXLJn Inline Circuit Breaker with Manual Reset : amzn.to/3IwWREE Hope this helps Steve
Never really tested that. Generally on a day to day basis my batteries don't go below 50%. But on a decent run (2-3 hrs) I would expect them to be fully charged. Maybe I should test that next time...🤔
Hi Lee Good question.... Victron recommend a breaker as near to the vehicle battery as possible, so the first one is close to that battery. I put the second in more for convenience near the actual B2B to act as a cutout switch if needed. I have one on the output side as well, so I could completely isolate the B2B if there ever was a problem. No real reason I suppose, just belt n braces really...! ATB, Steve
Question for you sir I have 2, 12 volt AGM batteries with a 100 watt solar panel on the roof. Trailer is brand new 2021 apex nano 185. Why battery keeps dropping every day and never shows a positive charge going in from the solar. And I'm not plugged in to any shore power. Thanks so much
Hi Thomas, All circuit breakers can be reverse fed unless they are marked LINE and LOAD, which restricts them to one way electrical flow application only. So lookout for directional marks on the breaker or LINE/LOAD markings. ATB, Steve
Steve hi.. thanks for the vid... one question. Having just purchased the same model B2B, in the istructions it states place in a well ventilated area and on a non flammable surface.. cam I ask what you mounted yours on to comply..? TIA Roy
Hi Roy, I have found that these units really don't give off much heat at all..! I've just done a 250 mile trip with mine running the whole journey and it only got 'warm' to the touch. The board I mounted it on is a laminate faced plywood. Like a kitchen worktop surface. I do have air vents that circulate from below as well. Hope this helps.
Hi, really nice installation, that’s what we call your installation a picture job here in Quebec , Canada. I am thinking to do something similar in my caravan trailer. Maybe you can answer my question, can you recharge your battery bank only with the engine on idle or you have to drive to make the engine turning faster ? Is it possible to dammage the battery or the alternator if I use it mostly while the engine is on idle ? I would like to install this B2B as a backup charger in case I am running out of sun for a few days while I do of grid camping. Thank you !
Hi Francois Thank you. The B2B seems to monitor both engine and leisure battery, and if the engine is sufficiently charged will also charge the leisure battery on idle. The main point of it is to ensure I arrive at my destination with my leisure batteries fully charged regardless of the solar. But I have found it will charge things up if needed when I've got the engine on idle while parked up, which is good. AYB, Steve
My video isn’t really a “how to” but just “this is what I’ve done” video. If I showed a diagram I get slated by the “you’ve done wrong” brigade…🤷♂️ So best not too….!
Thank you. You don’t need to touch the alternator. Just wire to the + & - on the vehicle battery. The instructions that come with this B2B are pretty good as well. ATB , Steve
Hi Steve, really good video! I am wanting to install a similar but "smaller" setup. Do you have a circuit diagram of your setup? I'm okay at putting it all together but worried that my circuit is incorrect. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks, Tom
Thank you. Unfortunately I don't' have a diagram of this install, sorry... However, I do have seperate videos of the solar install, the B2B and the BMV monitor on my channel. Also, I know there are some other UA-cam videos showing similar setups. Hope this helps, ATB, Steve
Did you do anything with the split charge relay or have you left it as was. Why I ask is because I’m thinking of fitting a Victron lithium battery at the same time as the B2B Victron charger.
Hi Colin, My van had a very old and basic split charge relay on it when I got it. I simply disconnected it . The B2B is definitely the way to go with Lithium. When I eventually upgrade to Lithium it's just a matter of changing the settings on the app for AGM to Lithium then.... simples! ATB, Steve
Unfortunately mines a lot more complicated as my on board chargers and split charge relay work through an electroblock. I want to keep the on board charger active but not the split charge relay both of which feed the battery though a single cable. What I thought I might be able to do is fit a 60 amp relay into the positive from the electroblock to the battery set in normally open that will disconnect the electroblock split charge relay when the engine is running. Then when on site and plugged in the relay to opens the circuit for the on board charger to charge the battery. Im told the charger has a setting that’s suitable for the lithium battery I’ve bought.
Hi there again. Question,,, what’s the difference between the 12/12 -18 and the 12/12-30. I bought the 30, hoping it’s the right one for my Dodge Ram promaster van. Thanks a bunch 🇨🇦
I have an Elddis Accordo 2017 van and I'd love to fit a Victron charger. I'm pretty sure my van has a factory fitted split charge relay. The problem is that I can't find the relay in order to disable it and fit the Victron. But maybe I don't need to disable it? Could the two charging systems work in parallel? I think the relay is part of the PDU unit and that is just a white box with lots of wires coming out of it and a fuse panel on the front. I really don't want to touch anything in there. It's also hard to access it. Can you help?
Hi William, I fitted the Victron B2B because I have AGM batteries and they require a different charge procedure from Lead Acid, as do Lithium. If you have lead acid I would stick with the split charger as that will be ok.. Defiantly do not run the two charging systems together, it will cause you problems. If you do decide to disable the split charger, simply take the fuse out. It's normally located in or nearby the split charger itself. Hope this helps ATB, Steve
@@TheWrinklyNomads Thankyou Steve. I have one 95Ah AGM leisure battery which is a year old. My 2017 van came with an AGM battery when new but I replaced this last year with a new one. My problem is that I can't find the Split charge relay. I think it's part of the Elddis PDU/mains charger/fuse panel box. This is just a white box under the wardrobe with lots of wires going into the bottom. From my leisure battery is just one twin cable which goes all the way back to this box. I can't get at the relay.
@@themorayrambler1756 - Sounds like it might mean a quick trip to an Eddis dealer. They should have an idea where the split charger is as it’s part of their wiring system. ALB, Steve
Good afternoon, wondering if you can please explain something for me. Why did you choose to install a 150Amp breaker at the starter battery when only using 16mm2 cable? Cheers.
Wow. Great info. So if I have zero solor panels, and simply want to buy one 100 amp hr lithium phosphate battery nothing else, to run my fan, fridge heater only. Can I do that victron b2b way??? So cable would be from my engine battery to the blue Vic box then to my lithium battery. Is that correct. Thank 🙏 🇨🇦
Hi Essentially yes. But really depends on your amount of leisure battery usage, do you need a lot of Power and for how long? Size of leisure battery, will it require constant recharging and how long you run you engine for. It can be done if you manage that. Worth a try...👍🏼 ATB, Steve
@@TheWrinklyNomads sorry to bother again. The victron website shows connections to the vehicle alternator and vehicle battery,, I thought we did not have to connect to alternator at all. Simply battery to battery. So I assume you did connect to alternator too???????
Hi there again. About the victron b 2 b charger. Here in Canada it’s getting cold. Apparently we can’t charge lithium batteries when below 0. So if I take out that green switch on the victron, does that stop my van battery from charging my battery?? Or should I remove my positive cable that’s connected on my van battery so as not to charge my lithium battery. Basically is that green switch a kill switch. The manual says nothing about that. Thanks
hi, There's an easier way of doing it through then app. Open app > settings > charger enabled. Open this up and choose disable. It's a maintenance mode, but basically turns the unit off and stops it sending any charge to the battery. ATB, Steve
Hi. I just bought the dc 2 dc Orion like yours. The book says 6 awg gauge. I bought that. Hoping it works for 7 feet long wire to my lithium. Some people say 6 awg is not big enough. ???
Hi 6awg will handle over 50amps and it’s more than capable of doing that over your 7 ft run. Not only that, if you go much bigger, I think you’ll have trouble getting the cable into the B2B connections..... My run is about 10ft and I have no problems. Hope that helps, ATB, Steve
@@TheWrinklyNomads thank you so much, that gives me confidence in my decision. So many opinions out there. I had emailed victron asking them, but they kept referring me to a website with no answers. Guess a liability thing. Thanks and have a great day! Montreal girl I am!!
Hi Thomas, Essentially they are all the same, using identical components and all made in China. Different suppliers seem to charge between £15 -£45 as well. Their well made and robust, so can handle the current ok, but as to how effective they are at cutting out, in the case of an over current, I suppose that may vary according to the manufacture process? So far they have been ok with me and I have put them under load, and they tripped out. ATB, Steve
@@TheWrinklyNomads i thinki il put in a fuse and a breaker just to isolate , that way i can turn off and on and be assured of correct protection from fuse , great vid by the way
Hi Steve, I want to tank you for how clear you are to explain what you're doing. And how tidy is your work, I love it. Take care, Gino
very similar to my setup, I use ferrules now going into all my Victron equipment,it makes for a better connection,great vid
Yes, agreed, they are much better.
I have some on order and intend to change to them when they arrive.
It was something that completely forgot during this Instalation 🥴
Schoolboy error...!!!
@@TheWrinklyNomads I don't think it's an error but they are neater,also no loose strands,take care
031421/1614h PST 🇺🇸 2314 GMT. Yes , of course, ferrules are necessary, but I’m sure the author would, eventually install ferrules, after crimping with ferrule crimper. Thank you, Fester stay safe. 73s...
@@TheWrinklyNomads another problem is,if you charge your main battery the victron will kick in and and think you are running the engine so this can take all the power and discharge your mainbattery ,been there done that,so just turn off when you need to charge your engine battery if you ever need to,probably not,i left my lights on all night
@@fester. that’s a good point I’ll bear that in mind.
Easiest install video I've seen!
Thank you Andrew, glad it helped 👍
Thanks for the info. I'm in the middle of a van conversion. Started living in it over the summer. My 400W solar was working great with my 240Ah battery bank until this autumn. The dull days really wasn't allowing the solar to charge the batteries to full power after several days, as you mentioned also.
I've got the non isolated 30Amp DC/DC Victron charger and an extra 120Ah battery (my current bank is only 3 months old). I'll be fitting all that next week. Cheers for the heads up with the app etc.
Good luck on your build... 👍
I've been looking at which DC-DC charger for my system and your video has been very interesting and useful. I have now decided to go for Victron rather than CTEK which was my initial idea. It appears from your video that the bluetooth set up is straightforward and it will be good to have a display on the phone to confirm the status etc. I am DIY competent, but not experienced with vehicle electrics and it is not easy to be confident in deciding on the appropriate kit. It helps a lot to hear that your enthusiasm for a product is not skewed by freebies from a company ! Thanks for the excellent video.
Thank you..
The ability to change settings to suit you system and the app are really useful.
Plus, Victron is very good gear.
I am very happy with this setup and works well.
ATB, Steve
Excellent video. Clear and concise and great presentation and explanation. I have just fitted one
Thank you Robaire,
They are a good bit of equipment..👍
031421/1600h PST 🇺🇸 - 2300h GMT. Thank you for the descriptive description of your design, installation and commissioning of your System. Frankly, the enclosure looked like Jewelry Box, quite meticulously made. We don’t get to see such precision, these days. I observed, several safety precautions by the way of overload/short protection trip devices; funds spent well. I learned a few more, though mind boggling. (for me.)
That said, wishing you more enjoyable road trips, ahead. Take care and 73s...
Hi Sree
Thank you for the kind comments.
A tidy vans a happy van I always say...!😂
ATB. Steve
Nice easy explanation, cleared up a few things in my mind. One point, why the 150 amp trip whereas Victron recommend 2x 60A, one on the starter battery cableand one on the leisure battery cable? Thanks
Thanks a lot for your great video, as always. Take care and greetings from Belgium.
Thanks Ton,
We've meet quite a few people from Belgium on our latest travels...
Your nice people 👍
The dc to dc charger needs a 60 Amp trip as per manufactures instructions, depending on the temperature were used as the 30 amp can go much higher if nice and cool. Cheers doing the same set up.
Hi, I was thinking same thing. I just bought the same Victron which I’m fitting next week, need to order some fuses but don’t know weather to get30A or 60A, did you get any further information on this ?
Great video! I've got a similar Victron Orion DC to DC charger which charges my Goal Zero power station. It's great when the days are short and lots of rain here in Vancouver. Drive a couple hours and my Yeti 1000 power station is fully charged. I've got the isolated version, but the 12/24 15amp version. Running this setup for 6 months and it's great! I don't have solar panels on my van either. Thanks for doing this video!
I’m impressed. Those Yeti power stations are so good.
I’ve got a lower powered Power Oak as a back up, but couldn’t survive without solar!!!!
ATB, Steve
excellent video. Will use for my sailboat (when there is no wind and the engine needs to be turned on). Thanks from Canada!
Just finished my electric install in my 2020 Transit 250 HR-EL, got the Onan 2800i installed underneath, finished the Orion Tr-Smart this week, was a little sketchy on the programming, but you straightened me right out. Very succinct information and video. Thanks!
Very good easy to follow video , I am going to buy one thanks for the video 😎👍
Hi Dave
Yes, a good bit of kit.
We’re travelling through France at the moment and it’s charging the battery perfectly 👍🏼
The best easy explanation I have seen thank you. I want yo use the same system as you have but I am not sure where I can fit the b2b I hear they get hot.
Hi Paul,
They do get warm, but not excessively hot...
As long as it's mounted on a non flammable surface and, ideally, use spacers to mount off the surface, it is fine.
ATB, Steve
Howdy from the other side of the pond! 🇺🇸 Great video and very informative, well presented!
Thank you Greg & Chewie,
Welcome to my channel 👍🏼
Steve
Cheers 🍻 looking to install one of these in my Expedite van
True dual battery isolator was already use to separate two batteries for better charging
Sorry Katrina, I don’t understand what you mean?
Sorry Katrina, I don’t understand what you mean?
depending on the alternator you could use two of them dc to dc chargers for a faster charge with roughly 70amp intake but i would also put some kind of metal heatsink under the charger as its direct on laminate they can draw a lot of heat i love the setup also consider 12v fans for cooling i can not wait to do my build
Hi Harry,
Yes, that's perfectly doable.
I've seen a few videos with people who have added an additional B2B with great success.
There was no need for any additional cooling either.
ATB, Steve
The only thing I would have done differently was to add wire ferrules where you inserted the wires into the DC to Dc Charger and the breaker. JMO
Yes I agree there Gerald,
I'm actually in the process of changing and putting ferrules on all the cable ends.
ATB, Steve
Great job! Easily followed and understood. I will use your vid as my template. Take care!
Thank you
all the best
Steve
Just about to fit mine. Thanks great and thorough video very helpful
Thanks for the video. Excellent explanation on how to install this device. Have a nice day.
This is just what i needed, Thanks!
Glad it helped and thanks for watching 👍🏼
Great video as I am just planning to install one, thanks for putting it up and explaining so well
Your the best!
Very good video and that installation looks very neat and tidy too! Thanks!
Thank Mark.
I work on the theory that: tidy electrics is happy electrics.....!😂
Thanks, I was confused by the diagram in the manual that shows + and - connections from the starter battery to the alternator. Would these be the vehicle standard alternator to starter battery connections?
Ken.
Excellent video, I am in the process of planning my DC-DC charge system for my truck leisure battery setup really usefull.
Thank you really good, wiring is super tidy brilliant set up
Thanks Sam...
Excellent workmanship on your job...
Excellent job, love the detail and organization of your setup. You must have a lot of free time LoL!!
on the smart dc to dc mine is a 30 amp charger but the book says 60 amp fuse not sure why.. Love your channel btw.
Today I setup my Victron B2B following your brilliant Vlog however one thing almost put me off as when I fired up the B2B with the load connections disconnected the Bluetooth light didn’t start flashing as you said ? It only started flashing after I’d made a connection with my mobile phone and Applied the default password 000000. I panicked a little! thinking I had a dud, but all’s well, so thanks 🙏
Great video which you have presented very well. I am going to use a similar setup and I note you mentioned running your fridge on mains via the inverter, three questions 1) is it a standard 3-way fridge 3) what current does it draw from the battery 3) Can you find out from the B2B what the voltage is of the starter battery and leisure battery with the engine off. Thanks
Thank you Brian.
1) yes standard 3way fridge
2) 10 amps when on 230V
3) yes, using the app, it will show engine volts when off and when running the charge volts.
ATB, Steve
Nice clear and easy to understand video. I get why you used the 2 x 30amp trips on either side of the b2b but why the 150amp trip near the starter battery? I'm not trying to be critical just trying to gain knowledge.
From memory, that was suggested in the instruction booklet....
ATB, Steve
A very important factor is angling the solar panels more inclined to the sun, even if behind cloud.
The better the sun or light is tracked, the more power to your batteries, it’s proven flat panels on the roof of a van are not as good
But that’s for explaining the B 2 B, certainly worth a thought, always wondered how they work over a split charge relay
Great video, thanks. Compliments on a very neat installation.
Hi Paul,
Thank you. 👍🏼
very nice installation! Great job!
thank you.
Great stuff…. Thank you. 👍🏻
Glad you enjoyed it Jim.. 👍
Nice video but you should have read the instructions. Needed 60amp fuses.
Yeah, it’s changed around a bit since the video.
The 150A was battery side with the other 30A breaker next to the B2B.
Kept the 30 but changed to 60A at battery.
Thanks for watching and your comments though 👍🏼
ATB, Steve
A video showing the setting on the app would be great for agm or acid battery
Not quite as easy as it sounds.
Different batteries have different parameters, so their settings are not all the same.
I just concentrated on the batteries that I have.
Do you need a breaker between the bus bar and battery on the positive? I wasn’t going to bother as the blade fuse holder will trip if any problems. Thanks for the vid, your wiring is immaculate 👍
Hi mate really enjoyed this video I would love to fit this to my Adria but not sure about electrical side of things , I do know I have a solar panel and 2 leisure batteries in my van and I sure would love to install the btb unit just a wee bit apprehensive about it , Im now a subscriber to your channel as you have an excellent way of presenting and showing your upgrades , I might just keep watching this over and over to gain some confidence , I take it I just ignore anything else that is connected and just do as your video just fitting the 2 breakers the cabeling and the btb? Don't need to add anything to fuse box , sorry if my question is too long, take care look forward to more of your videos .
Hi Jim
It’s a fairly straightforward job, just take your time.
Thanks for the comments, all the best, Steve
UK Preppers Guide yeah but folks are saying it will not work as there is a existing trickle charger furred to motorhomes and do i need to fit fuses ont o the install
Hello Steve...just come across your channel and you now have one more subscriber...I am about to commence on my wrinkly journey and move to van life..
My first question of no doubt many:
Does the DC to DC charger do away with the need for a split relay set up to charge the leisure batteries?
Thanks again....Chris
Hi Chris
If you have the older lead acid batteries, the split charge relay will be fine.
A B2B charger is required for AGM or Lithium as they have much different charge characteristics than the lead acid.
If you fit a B2B then you don't need the split charger.
Good luck with your van conversion.
ATB, Steve
hello
very good tutorial, thank you for your practical advice see you later !!!
Excellent - no more to say
Thank you Fred....
ATB, Steve
Brilliant
You probably had no choice but use the under bunk that has has gas pipes, otherwise I'd keep gas and electricity as far apart as possible.
Like your 'busbars' but could you cover them up to prevent anything falling onto the live? Brilliant idea to have both the live and return protected by a trip and isolating switch cut off.
Hi David
I have a several gas dump grills to the outside by those has valves. Also the solid wood barrier above, so it’s quite safe.
The live bussbar does have a cover over all terminals, didn’t fit it back till the end.
I put isolation just about anywhere.... 🥴
Probably too much.!
Appreciate the comments, keep safe, Steve
@@TheWrinklyNomads
Great videos and ideas.
Very clear explanation thankyou
I think there should be 60amp fuse on each + and that what’s in manual I believe.
Why 150amp fuse by battery under the bonnet?
Thanks.
I have good experience with victron in general. However Orion b2b 30A charger is absolute nightmare for lifepo4 batteries. Its only charge 30A for the first 5-10 minutes. Then drop to 27A after 1 hour of continuous charge drop to 25ish and eventually after 2 hours charge settle to 22 A for the rest of charging routine. I guess I have to be greatfull it works .
Hi Mark,
So far I haven't had problems with the charge rate on my AGM's.
Always found the Victron gear to be pretty bulletproof, Might be worth checking your settings for those LifePro4 batteries.
Good luck,
ATB, Steve
@@TheWrinklyNomads on agm battery victron pretty good. However due to low resistance lifepo4 can take maximum what victron orion can offer, 30a for hours that's where victron fail to supply probably due to overheating...
Really good video. Any reason why you are not using bootlace ferrules on the wires into the B2B?
Excellent video... I'm in the process of installing the same Victron B2B charger to a Battleborn 100Ahr LiFePO4 battery without solar (yet?). The most confusing thing to me is to go isolated or not. I wonder if I can use the isolated unit wired to common ground and skip the neg wire run back to the battery?
thats creative..
i was going to run coax from my LiFePO4 back to a covered terminal strip which would just act like the remote terminals of my batt. Then it’s just s short run from the DC-DC to that and the start bat. But yes, with all connected why can’t you just connect the negative terminals.. must be a reason..
well blow me down you have to, the non isolated version only has 3 terminals!
@@thekiteboatparty3568 my conclusion is if you run non-isolated you're using common ground, but there may be more risk to messing up your 'engine system. I've not been abvle to get a very straight answer from any anyone with the pros and cons of using either isolated or non-isolated.
I was told that it may be possible that using a common grnd in a non-isolated unit it could defeat the charger.
finally a neat person!
Thank you Cristian.
I have saved this for later review once I get all the gear I need for my build. Great video looking to do this with a school bus conversion that comes with 3 batteries from the engine. There is a hot cable back to the end of the bus that had a chair lift that I think I can tie into for the hot. The lift also has a ground cable all the way down to the frame that I think I can put a buss bar in to ground everything to the frame that I put in. Is there a chart for converting the 16mm wire you used to the AWG (American standard)? I ask because I might need to re-run the hot that went into the lift, as it seems to be pretty thick cable that might have a issue getting into that B2B port. Thanks,
Loved it brilliant
Hiya just joined channel and really well made video. Can you tell me what the red plastic sheet is that you use to mount the gear on? All neat and tidy 👍
well explained. Great video.
Excellent video and a neat setup. If as you say you have 3 AGM’s, is the B2B charging all 3 at once, if 1 drops a cell will it detect it or start over gassing? My worry would be it could start over heating. Thanks.
Hi Graham, thank you.
The Victron B2B detects the charge level and the will bulk charge, absorption or float charge accordingly. Much like the MPPT solar charger will.
Also AGM batteries do no gas. All the electrolyte is absorbed in their separators unlike a normal vehicle battery.
So far the B2B, with the AGM's has been pretty bulletproof....
ATB, Steve
Did I miss the part where you connected the b2b system to the alternator? Do youtubers not know about this detail? I haven't seen any video show it, do you pass on doing this? Do youtuber b2b systems run without using the alternator?
Hi Devonian,
This particular Victron B2B does not connect directly to the alternator.
I think that applies to most B2B's as well, but not entirely certain,,,?
It is connected directly to the battery as shown 👍
ATB, Steve
Is that ply-board with red ABS plastic veneer? Very clean electric box.
Good job.
Hello, I want to replace the batteries of my motorhome for a 300ah lithium. I bought the victron isolated smart dc-dc 12v 30 amps. Can I connect the victron changer with the wires that are currently connected to my auxiliary batteries (by adding 60 amp fuse protection at the input to the output) to my new lithium without modifying the old installation...
Depends on the wire gauge you already have.
You will need a minimum of 16mm2 (6 AWG) maybe more if it is a long cable run.
The 60 A fuse is ok though.
ATB, Steve
Very tidy set up. I'm going to get one of these.
Are you getting full 30Amps from it please? In the video it's showing an increase by roughly 20A but it wasn't on for a long time. Is it getting very hot?
I haven't decided where to install it in my Sprinter due to heat.
Professional job👍
Thank you Zoltan....👍
Many of those circuit breakers have very bad quality, not good connections, release at wrong Amp and so on, I would go for basic fuses.
Great vid neat and tidy job thanks
Thank you Kevin 👍🏼
Hi. When you first turn on the Bluetooth power on the victron which positive cable is turned on? The car battery or your AGM. I’m French 🇨🇦 and when you say leisure battery I’m not sure if that’s the car engine one or the agm. Thanks,
i would also like to know ware you got the 30amp trips and the 150amp breaker
Hi Harry,
I got them all from Amazon.
Inline Fuse Circuit Breaker:
amzn.to/3imXLJn
Inline Circuit Breaker with Manual Reset :
amzn.to/3IwWREE
Hope this helps
Steve
Great video thankyou. How long does it take to charge your batteries with your battery charger, was 30 amp enough for your 330amp system?
Never really tested that.
Generally on a day to day basis my batteries don't go below 50%.
But on a decent run (2-3 hrs) I would expect them to be fully charged.
Maybe I should test that next time...🤔
Hi, just wondering the reason for having 2 breakers on the cable from the vehicle battery to the B2B charger? Thanks
Hi Lee
Good question....
Victron recommend a breaker as near to the vehicle battery as possible, so the first one is close to that battery.
I put the second in more for convenience near the actual B2B to act as a cutout switch if needed.
I have one on the output side as well, so I could completely isolate the B2B if there ever was a problem.
No real reason I suppose, just belt n braces really...!
ATB, Steve
Question for you sir I have 2, 12 volt AGM batteries with a 100 watt solar panel on the roof. Trailer is brand new 2021 apex nano 185. Why battery keeps dropping every day and never shows a positive charge going in from the solar. And I'm not plugged in to any shore power. Thanks so much
how do you know you have the 2 breakers connected the correct way around , no wiring instructions or markings ?
Hi Thomas,
All circuit breakers can be reverse fed unless they are marked LINE and LOAD, which restricts them to one way electrical flow application only.
So lookout for directional marks on the breaker or LINE/LOAD markings.
ATB, Steve
nice one
Steve hi.. thanks for the vid... one question. Having just purchased the same model B2B, in the istructions it states place in a well ventilated area and on a non flammable surface.. cam I ask what you mounted yours on to comply..? TIA Roy
Hi Roy,
I have found that these units really don't give off much heat at all..!
I've just done a 250 mile trip with mine running the whole journey and it only got 'warm' to the touch.
The board I mounted it on is a laminate faced plywood. Like a kitchen worktop surface.
I do have air vents that circulate from below as well.
Hope this helps.
@@TheWrinklyNomads Thanks for the reply Steve... I'm presently trying to figure out a cable route from front to back of van.?!?! 👍
Hi, really nice installation, that’s what we call your installation a picture job here in Quebec , Canada.
I am thinking to do something similar in my caravan trailer. Maybe you can answer my question, can you recharge your battery bank only with the engine on idle or you have to drive to make the engine turning faster ? Is it possible to dammage the battery or the alternator if
I use it mostly while the engine is on idle ? I would like to install this B2B as a backup charger in case I am running out of sun for a few days while I do of grid camping. Thank you !
Hi Francois
Thank you.
The B2B seems to monitor both engine and leisure battery, and if the engine is sufficiently charged will also charge the leisure battery on idle.
The main point of it is to ensure I arrive at my destination with my leisure batteries fully charged regardless of the solar.
But I have found it will charge things up if needed when I've got the engine on idle while parked up, which is good.
AYB, Steve
Hello.
Where could we find more about your overall set up ?
Hi Adrien
I have a playlist.
This all the off grid motorhome stuff on it.
ua-cam.com/play/PLpIOAv57Ke8hyBf55D2CmCEXI3Wlv7D6B.html
it would help if you show us a diagram, how you connected every thing : lol
My video isn’t really a “how to” but just “this is what I’ve done” video.
If I showed a diagram I get slated by the “you’ve done wrong” brigade…🤷♂️
So best not too….!
Nice!! What about the alternator? Does the alternator handle this? How many Amps does your alternator output?
Greetings from Sweden.
Excellent presentation. I‘m planning to install a similar system in my campervan. Did you have to make connections to the vehicle alternator?
Thank you.
You don’t need to touch the alternator.
Just wire to the + & - on the vehicle battery.
The instructions that come with this B2B are pretty good as well.
ATB , Steve
Is the red board flammable material ? The manual suggests that should not be done.
Hi,
Non flammable, heat resistant laminate board.
Most people just mount them on wood anyway....
ATB, Steve
Hi Steve, really good video! I am wanting to install a similar but "smaller" setup. Do you have a circuit diagram of your setup? I'm okay at putting it all together but worried that my circuit is incorrect. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks, Tom
Thank you.
Unfortunately I don't' have a diagram of this install, sorry...
However, I do have seperate videos of the solar install, the B2B and the BMV monitor on my channel.
Also, I know there are some other UA-cam videos showing similar setups.
Hope this helps,
ATB, Steve
Did you do anything with the split charge relay or have you left it as was. Why I ask is because I’m thinking of fitting a Victron lithium battery at the same time as the B2B Victron charger.
Hi Colin,
My van had a very old and basic split charge relay on it when I got it.
I simply disconnected it .
The B2B is definitely the way to go with Lithium.
When I eventually upgrade to Lithium it's just a matter of changing the settings on the app for AGM to Lithium then.... simples!
ATB, Steve
@@TheWrinklyNomads Thanks, most helpful I think this is the way for me too.
Unfortunately mines a lot more complicated as my on board chargers and split charge relay work through an electroblock. I want to keep the on board charger active but not the split charge relay both of which feed the battery though a single cable. What I thought I might be able to do is fit a 60 amp relay into the positive from the electroblock to the battery set in normally open that will disconnect the electroblock split charge relay when the engine is running. Then when on site and plugged in the relay to opens the circuit for the on board charger to charge the battery. Im told the charger has a setting that’s suitable for the lithium battery I’ve bought.
great video
Hi there again. Question,,, what’s the difference between the 12/12 -18 and the 12/12-30. I bought the 30, hoping it’s the right one for my Dodge Ram promaster van.
Thanks a bunch 🇨🇦
It's the current output in amps
why do you have so many Fuses/Circuit Breakers. I think lot of ppl who have a solar system overkill the Circuit breakers.
I have an Elddis Accordo 2017 van and I'd love to fit a Victron charger. I'm pretty sure my van has a factory fitted split charge relay. The problem is that I can't find the relay in order to disable it and fit the Victron. But maybe I don't need to disable it? Could the two charging systems work in parallel? I think the relay is part of the PDU unit and that is just a white box with lots of wires coming out of it and a fuse panel on the front. I really don't want to touch anything in there. It's also hard to access it. Can you help?
Hi William,
I fitted the Victron B2B because I have AGM batteries and they require a different charge procedure from Lead Acid, as do Lithium.
If you have lead acid I would stick with the split charger as that will be ok..
Defiantly do not run the two charging systems together, it will cause you problems.
If you do decide to disable the split charger, simply take the fuse out. It's normally located in or nearby the split charger itself.
Hope this helps
ATB, Steve
@@TheWrinklyNomads Thankyou Steve. I have one 95Ah AGM leisure battery which is a year old. My 2017 van came with an AGM battery when new but I replaced this last year with a new one. My problem is that I can't find the Split charge relay. I think it's part of the Elddis PDU/mains charger/fuse panel box. This is just a white box under the wardrobe with lots of wires going into the bottom. From my leisure battery is just one twin cable which goes all the way back to this box. I can't get at the relay.
@@themorayrambler1756 - Sounds like it might mean a quick trip to an Eddis dealer.
They should have an idea where the split charger is as it’s part of their wiring system.
ALB, Steve
Good afternoon, wondering if you can please explain something for me. Why did you choose to install a 150Amp breaker at the starter battery when only using 16mm2 cable? Cheers.
Hi Nathan
Generally I used the manufacturer's advice.
Wow. Great info. So if I have zero solor panels, and simply want to buy one 100 amp hr lithium phosphate battery nothing else, to run my fan, fridge heater only. Can I do that victron b2b way??? So cable would be from my engine battery to the blue Vic box then to my lithium battery. Is that correct. Thank 🙏 🇨🇦
Hi
Essentially yes. But really depends on your amount of leisure battery usage, do you need a lot of Power and for how long?
Size of leisure battery, will it require constant recharging and how long you run you engine for.
It can be done if you manage that.
Worth a try...👍🏼
ATB, Steve
@@TheWrinklyNomads sorry to bother again. The victron website shows connections to the vehicle alternator and vehicle battery,, I thought we did not have to connect to alternator at all. Simply battery to battery. So I assume you did connect to alternator too???????
Might be a stupid question but do you have to turn off the solar while using the battery to battery charger or mains hook up?
Hi there again. About the victron b 2 b charger. Here in Canada it’s getting cold. Apparently we can’t charge lithium batteries when below 0. So if I take out that green switch on the victron, does that stop my van battery from charging my battery?? Or should I remove my positive cable that’s connected on my van battery so as not to charge my lithium battery.
Basically is that green switch a kill switch. The manual says nothing about that.
Thanks
hi,
There's an easier way of doing it through then app.
Open app > settings > charger enabled.
Open this up and choose disable.
It's a maintenance mode, but basically turns the unit off and stops it sending any charge to the battery.
ATB, Steve
Great video, do you have to disconnect the factory fit split charge system to install this BtoB ?
Hi Duncan,
Yes, one of the first things that I did.
I had it disconnected right from the start anyway as I have AGM batteries.
ATB, Steve
that's what I would like to do but how do I disconnect the split charger relay??
Hi. I just bought the dc 2 dc Orion like yours. The book says 6 awg gauge. I bought that. Hoping it works for 7 feet long wire to my lithium. Some people say 6 awg is not big enough. ???
Hi
6awg will handle over 50amps and it’s more than capable of doing that over your 7 ft run.
Not only that, if you go much bigger, I think you’ll have trouble getting the cable into the B2B connections.....
My run is about 10ft and I have no problems.
Hope that helps,
ATB, Steve
@@TheWrinklyNomads thank you so much, that gives me confidence in my decision. So many opinions out there. I had emailed victron asking them, but they kept referring me to a website with no answers. Guess a liability thing.
Thanks and have a great day! Montreal girl I am!!
He's right about the 6AGW, which is what I ran for mine. You won't get any bigger wire into the connectors.
What did you do with your on board charger ? Did you disconnect it or have it running slong side the orion b2b
Hi Kroozer,
I got rid of the on board charger completely.
I find that the solar and B2B are more the good enough.
i hear a lot that the breakers are cheap rubbish that do not work properly and can not be trusted
,what are your thoughts ?
Hi Thomas,
Essentially they are all the same, using identical components and all made in China.
Different suppliers seem to charge between £15 -£45 as well.
Their well made and robust, so can handle the current ok, but as to how effective they are at cutting out, in the case of an over current, I suppose that may vary according to the manufacture process?
So far they have been ok with me and I have put them under load, and they tripped out.
ATB, Steve
@@TheWrinklyNomads i thinki il put in a fuse and a breaker just to isolate , that way i can turn off and on and be assured of correct protection from fuse ,
great vid by the way
Hi, did your motorhome not have a B2B charger already fitted as standard?
Not a B2B charger, just a normal split charge relay.
I've got AGM batteries so needed a B2B for them to charge properly.
ATB, Steve
@@TheWrinklyNomads ok, thanks 👍
Sounds like you're saying buzz bar
I notice you are running 30A fuses on a system that produces 30A, so very close to the rated load. Would larger fuses be advised?
Fuses are only there to protect the cables, fuses should be rated lower than the cable current carrying capacity