Split Charge

[skyguy]

Hi folks
I have installed a split charge system in my Disco, I used the instructions from the link to kampenwagon. Since installed the battery warning light is permanently visible, I have checked the voltage on both batteries they are both just under 13 volts, Obviously the batteries are charging, but am I doing permanent damage to the batteries/alternator.
Thanks
Gary

[AJC]

Gary,

Was part of your setup having to replace the lead from the alternator to the relay/isolator? I initally had a problem when I replaced mine. There was a thin wire taped to the original alternator lead and this had to remain connected to sense the charge from the alternator which puts out the battery warning light. That could be the problem if it's a similar setup.

With the engine running you should be getting about 13.6v.
AJ

[skyguy]

Thanks for the reply AJ
I didnt replace the lead to the alternator, I attatched a new wire via a scotch lock to a relay, from the battery warning light. Im pressuming that the alternator isnt powerful enough to power two batteries. I spoke to my local garage, they suggested fitting a second relay to switch the first relay?
I will have to sort out in 2 weeks as im off on holiday on sat
Cheers
GARY

[Ivan]

Your locl garage is correct. I have split charge systems in both my 90 and Discovery.The batteries are separated by a 300 Amp solenoid. I use a small relay powered by the charge warning light to activate the bigger relay which links the batteries. The power from the charge warning light is not enough to power a heavy duty relay.

HTH
Ivan

[AJC]

Skyguy,

Checkout a previous thread of mine reference the split charge system and alternator.

http://www.landrovernet.com/forum/showthread.php?t=8723&highlight=split+charge

AJ