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Is a Solar Controller Needed to Install Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger  

Question:

Is it required to have a solar controller between the solar panel and the BCDC 1225D? Or do you install the the solar panel directly to the BCDC 1225D via the yellow wire? Should a 20amp fuse be used on the input line?

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Helpful Expert Reply:

A solar controller is not required to install the Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger # 331-BCDC1225D, the solar panel does get connected to the charger directly via the yellow wire.

As for fuses you will need the 40-Amp MIDI Fuse Kit for Redarc In-Vehicle 25-Amp BCDC Battery Charger # 331-FK40 which gets installed as per the accompanying photos; it will depend on the type of battery (lead acid or Lithium ion) you are using.

I have added a link to a video review of this charger for you to check out, as well as a link to the installation instructions.

expert reply by:
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Kyle S
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Jason J.

6/12/2020

A few questions about the REDARC BCDC 1225d and a solar panel. I understand that I run the positive cable from the solar to the REDARC and connect it to the yellow wire but where do I connect the negative? Can I just ground it to the chassis in the engine compartment? When the engine is off will the REDARC still charge my auxiliary battery from the solar panel on the roof or does the ignition need to be on? Last question, do I need a fuse in between my solar panel and the REDARC yellow wire? Any information is appreciated!

Etrailer Expert

Chris R.

6/16/2020

Yes, your solar panel can just be grounded to a convenient bare (and clean) metal surface. That yellow power wire from the panel doesn't need to be fused and the solar panel will continue to charge the battery even when the truck's engine is off.

Jason J.

6/16/2020

@ChrisR thank you so much!!
Etrailer Expert

Chris R.

6/19/2020

@JasonJ Anytime!

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