Using Redarc BCDC Charger to Charge Secondary Battery on GMC Yukon
Question:
Hi, I have been looking at the RedArc battery isolator and DC to DC chargers because I would like to add a 2nd battery for powering accessories - as well as a higher amp alternator to my 2010 GMC Yukon XL 2500 L96 6.0L gas. I talked with the tech people at one of the mfrs of high amp alternators Mechman - and they suggested that running a high amp alternator in a configuration with a battery separated by an isolator was a bad idea and would potentially lead to alternator burn out , because of the possibility that the isolated battery might be drawn all the way down - and the alternator was not designed to bring a drawn down battery back up to full charge. I also asked about the possibility of using a DC to DC charger instead of the isolator and pointed them towards the RedArc products - but they said that a charger would likely have the same issue as the isolator. I am looking for some advice on whether this setup is technically possible - and if so , what is the correct setup: isolator or DC to DC charger. I do not believe my truck has a smart alternator I checked it - and I my plan is to use a deep cycle battery for the secondary battery. Thanks!
asked by: Jim W
Expert Reply:
The Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger # 331-BCDC1225D that you referenced is exactly what I recommend for this application and it will work perfectly. This charger is specifically designed to not just maintain but charge up a secondary battery while driving with its multi-stage charging design that boosts the charge (up to 25 amps) from the truck's battery. Even if the secondary battery were to get low on power you don't have to worry about any damage being done to the alternator.
This particular charger does also have an integrated battery isolator to prevent it from pulling any power when the truck is turned off. I have attached a short install video that you can check out as well.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger - Dual Input - DC to DC - 12V/24V - 25 Amp
- Battery Charger
- Battery Charger
- RV/Camper
- Trailer
- 75 Ah
- 200 Ah
- Charges/Maintains
- 12V
- Solar Panels to Auxiliary Battery
- Vehicle Battery to Auxiliary Battery
- Redarc
more information >
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