charge controller with solar and TV volts

[dustboy]

I bought this little 18w solar charging kit from my local trailer supply.



http://www.batteryjunction.com/coleman-58033.html?gclid=COacxJ2nub0CFRQS7Aod_kwArQ

Right now the solar panel runs into the charge controller, and the charge voltage from the Tow Vehicle runs straight to the battery. Everything works fine.

Should I run the TV voltage through the charge controller too? That way the battery wouldn't get cooked on a long drive. I believe the solar panel has a diode built-in.

[bdosborn]

Should I run the TV voltage through the charge controller too?

Nope, you'll let the smoke out the controller if you do.

Bruce

[dustboy]

Ok, why? Too much current? If I had a higher current controller, would I want to do it then?

[bdosborn]

A deeply discharged battery can draw 10s of amps but your controller is only rated for 7 amps. The reality is that your battery will be charging from the TV for only hours at a time so it's rare that the battery ever gets fully charged from driving. Besides, the TV alternator has a regulator and will reduce the current to the trailer battery when it's charged, even when it's paralleled with the start batteries.

Bruce

[dustboy]

Got it, kinda figured that was the case, thanks.