My solar installer gave me an information sheet regarding lithium batteries. It states, “ On motorhomes, check amps charging from alternator. Make sure it is within specs for your particular unit. It is sometimes necessary to install a DC – DC current limiting unit.”
What spec should I expect from a 2017 E450 alternator? Is this even a concern?
According to the 2017 price list, it’s 155 amps.
This is what AM Solar installed for Alternator charging on my 2017 TK.
Seems kinda fishy that your installer would leave alternator charging up to you to figure out.
I'm going to say, 'It isn't a concern'. The standard alternator is 120A, but the SuperDuty is as Dave stated 155 Amps. That works out to about 2 kw. Impressive for a little thing like that. With voltage drop along the way, I don't think the LiF batteries would ever stress the alternator that much.
The Cyrix-ct Amazon.com: Victron Energy Cyrix-ct 12/24-Volt 120 amp Intelligent Battery... (https://www.amazon.com/Victron-Energy-Intelligent-Battery-Combiner/dp/B071Y7C9MM?th=1) could be used to connect the batteries, and would protect the alternator. If You increase the number of batteries to 3, 4, or 5 this device would protect the alternator. Easily added it would replace the relay that LD used to connect the battery banks for charging.
So what did you do with your extra BlueSky Energy R3000i controller? A friend was given a box of un-needed parts after his $many$ upgrade by AM Solar, (back when they were operating). I benefitted by many of those parts for a reasonable charge, and many parts are now part of my solar upgrade. RonB
It is sometimes necessary to install a DC – DC current limiting unit.”
I installed a dc to dc when I did my solar project but there are several forum members that are using the factory setup with no issues. If I were to do that project again, I wouldn't install the dc to dc. Cheaper and keeping it simple.
jor
Ron, the BlueSky controller is in use. The existing 100amp panel is still wired to it, as well as the two new 200 amp panels.
I installed a dc to dc when I did my solar project but there are several forum members that are using the factory setup with no issues. If I were to do that project again, I wouldn't install the dc to dc. Cheaper and keeping it simple.
jor
I think I’ll follow your suggestion and hold off for now and see what happens, Jor. I agree in KISS philosophy also!
According to the 2017 price list, it’s 155 amps.
Seems kinda fishy that your installer would leave alternator charging up to you to figure out.
Hi Dave, thanks for the info on the alternator! The only conversation I remember having with the installer was that I asked him, “Right now, the engine charges the house batteries . Will I still have that ability?” The tech answered in the positive so I left it at that. I probably should’ve asked specifically if a DC/DC charger would be needed. When I head back there in a couple days, I will ask them that question. The owner is an electrical engineer and is pretty knowledgeable!