How to Charge Battery Bank on R-Pod Using Tow Vehicle and Solar Panel Power

Question:

Hello, Im looking for some tech support concerning my 2015 R-Pod 179. First, Id like to add flexible solar chargers to the roof. Then Id like to set up so the batteries will charge by the tow vehicle while underway. Ideally, the controller will charge by solar first, and then by tow vehicle if there is no solar available. The R-Pod has a connection for a suitcase solar panel so it may be pretty straight forward. Is there a system designed for this type of setup? Secondly, Im looking for an electric jack for the R-Pod. Can you recommend? Thank you,

asked by: Wayne H

Expert Reply:

It looks like you're needing the Redarc BCDC Battery Charger. This comes in a few different sizes but you'll need either the 25 Amp # 331-BCDC1225D or the 40 Amp # 331-BCDC1240D. These will charge the battery bank on your R-Pod via the tow vehicle but they also have a connection for a solar panel setup and will prioritize solar panel over the tow vehicle. They also have a smart charge system so they will read your battery bank and apply the best case scenario to get the battery bank topped off. You'll also need some wiring and the MIDI Fuse Kit # 331-FK40 for the 25 Amp system of Kit # 331-FK60 for the 40 Amp system.

One thing to keep in mind is that if your R-Pod already has a connector for a solar panel then it might already have a charger on-board. You'll want to check and see if this is the case or not and if it does then we might need to change our approach some. We do have a selection of solar panels for you to choose from if you don't already have some. Again, be sure you don't get a controller with the solar panels because you won't be able to use it with the BCDC.

To upgrade your tongue jack to a powered jack we have a few options. For a simple upgrade from your manual jack I recommend the Buyers Products Electric Jack # 3370093500 which plugs into the 7-Way on your vehicle for power. If you'd like something that is a little more premium then check out the Phoenix Electric Jack # UF38-944040 which operates 3x faster than the etrailer jack. The Phoenix does require hardwiring into power.