Re: Charging from tow vehicle

On 3/6/2025 5:56 PM, sticks wrote:
---snip to add direction---
OK, I think we're getting somewhere with figuring out Ted's options.  I want to split this now into the second area we need to look into, which is solar power generation.  We do need to keep going on the other part till we've reached consensus and answered all the questions.
On Ted's Lance, he says he has what is called a "solar panel connector".   I too have one of these for adding additional panels to my setup. These Lance trailers do have the option for a factory installed solar power panel, which I assume includes a controller and gets wired directly to the battery bank.  I don't think Ted had this option when he purchased, though he certainly could get this done aftermarket.  (I would and I'll explain why). As far as I can tell, the solar panel connector port on the Lance is simply wiring from the input spot to the batteries.  There is no controller as far as I can tell, and the port is mainly for adding fully enclosed solar panels that have their own charging controller.  My unit now has 2 100 watt panels on the roof and go to a controller that has the capability to have added panels, up to 450 watts, and be able to use the same controller.  I also have the same type of port as the Lance, that I think works the same as Ted's, meaning it has to have it's own controller.  My solar charging system works all the time, even when I turn everything off it seems, and just keep charging whenever they can.  The house batteries are always full.
OK, what to do?
So I think we should continue on with the alternator charging setup options Ted has for his Lance lithium batteries, so he can arrive at a new site with as much charge as possible.  This is his first charging method.
His second charging method is via his PD4000 series controller that works nicely, if he has shore power.  In a pinch, he can also plug his shore line into his portable generator and it should work the same way, though it might be slower as you're going from a 30 amp shore power to I think his generator is around 1800 watts.  It'll be the same, just slower.
The third option is solar power.  I have not been a fan of solar power in the past, I've always hated what it does to the environment especially with the mining and disposal of things, but have really come to appreciate the options it opens up for RVing.  That said, you could very easily go out and buy a plug and play setup that would give you all the power you would want and just plug into the solar power connector. The big problem I have with doing this is the security of your investment.  I don't know if you can tie these down in any way or not, but I'm sure that could easily be overcome by any potential thief.  Now the little $25 panel w/controller I stick in my windshield to charge my chassis battery I would not like if some ass hole came and five fingered it, but that wouldn't break the bank.  A much more expensive and Lithium capable system for his house battery is another story.  I know Ted is like me and my spouse in that they get somewhere, and might be gone all day riding their bike or otherwise exploring.  Seeing that solar panel just sitting there for the taking seems like a big temptation for the average shit head.  If'n it was me, I'd bite the bullet and get a setup on the roof with a proper controller and as big as you could go, and be done with it.  (I'm pretty good at spending other people's money.)  I have mostly decided I will be adding as many panels as I can fit on the roof, and am even willing to upgrade the controller if necessary to handle more wattage.  I even saw a video where you don't have to drill into the roof anymore with the new tape systems and products available, so the possibility of leaking is minimized.
To summarize, power is probably the main thing Ted needs to get optimized to fully enjoy his Lance time.  He seems to have a decent handle on his water and sewer options if I recall.
First, gotta solve the alternator charging problem (still a few questions unanswered there).
Second, he can charge via his PD4000 if he can access shore power, and if boondocking could use his portable generator (not optimal..noise, fuel, timing when it runs low, etc.)
Last, investing in solar power greatly enhances his boondocking capability, and reduces the length of time either option 1 or 2 would be needed to recharge.
Does this thinking sound right to others?
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