Do you really need a Lithium charger?
How about using existing solar panels to fully charge Lithium batteries…
Hi Mike, Question about converting to lithium batteries. Existing WFCO 8955 converter doesn't support lithium, but do I really need to do an upgrade?
My thoughts...
1) The converter will charge lithium batteries to 80% without damaging them;
2) The converter charges the batteries only when on shore power or generator so a full charge is really not needed;
3) My solar controller supports lithium batteries and will take the batteries to full charge (with enough sun and time); and
4) When traveling, the 7-way plug from our Tow Vehicle will take the batteries to full charge (with enough travel time).
So is the $200+ cost for a converter upgrade needed? Thanks for your time!!! Gary
Dear Gary,
Your above points #1 through #3 are correct, but #4 is not. Your Tow Vehicle’s 7-way trailer plug will only supply alternator voltage to your trailer batteries, and that will never get up to the 14.5 volts needed to fully charge the Lithium trailer batteries.
But other than that it’s a good plan. A properly set Solar charge controller can top off your Lithium house batteries as long as the sun is shining.🌞
DC to DC chargers
DC to DC chargers are also useful in this situation since they will step up the TV’s alternator voltage to the level needed to fully charge the trailer’s Lithium house batteries. Plus with the proper wiring and heavy-duty Anderson connectors they will be able to supply much higher charging currents to the trailer.
Let’s play safe out there…. Mike
Not withstanding the great specifics on the WFCO, the reality of the LiFePO4 world are that they are very very tolerant of PSOC operation, and most batteries out there today only need an occasional top balance to 14.4 to stay completely healthy. Having one source that can do this is completely adequate, solar, charger or alternator. just pick one and be aware of the need, and make sure you have a good battery monitor to track SOC reasonably accurately.
Mike... it's not for everyone... I put relatively large cables between pickup alternator and trailer AGM batteries. I have an engine running automatic relay and a manual switch to control relay.
Connector is at a cable end in bed near back of cab. Another connector near front of trailer. The in-between cables are connected between the two.
When we arrive anywhere we have fully charged batteries.
Have auto relay to prevent connection between controller provided 12 volt and pickup provided 12 volt
Voila