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AGM solar charger on starting battery

Discussion in 'Technical Chat' started by soggyBottom, Jul 15, 2024.

  1. Jul 15, 2024 at 5:01 AM
    #1
    soggyBottom

    soggyBottom [OP] Well-Known Member

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    I have 1 battery on my 3rd gen its an AGM. I'm interested in adding a small solar panel.

    How do I hook up a charger on the same circuit as my alternator? Are there any solar chargers that are smart enough to be on the same circuit?
     
  2. Jul 15, 2024 at 1:42 PM
    #2
    Blueberry.Taco

    Blueberry.Taco blueberry.taco (IG)

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    typically a solar charge controller goes between the panel and the battery. alternator doesn't care
     
    soggyBottom[OP] likes this.
  3. Jul 15, 2024 at 5:36 PM
    #3
    4x4junkie

    4x4junkie Well-Known Member

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    Agreed, most any solar controller should be fine. If the alternator carries the voltage higher than what the solar controller is set for, the solar controller simply suspends charging until the voltage drops back down again, and vice-versa.
    I have a Morningstar SunSaver unit.
     
    soggyBottom[OP] likes this.
  4. Jul 15, 2024 at 6:07 PM
    #4
    OldSchlPunk

    OldSchlPunk A legend in my own mind!

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    My controller has a 12v switched input. Once the ignition is on, the solar is de-activated. Solar is fed directly to battery. No need to mess with your alternator.
     
  5. Jul 16, 2024 at 6:01 AM
    #5
    soggyBottom

    soggyBottom [OP] Well-Known Member

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    What controller? Or are you just using a relay or something?
     
  6. Jul 16, 2024 at 7:40 AM
    #6
    OldSchlPunk

    OldSchlPunk A legend in my own mind!

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