converter / charger / inverter?

[Bob Gil]

OK I am trying to get something that I can power the 12v section of the bus.  I don't have any idea what all it will entail as it was all AC when I got it and I want to put some 12v into it to make it easier to not use the genset.

I need to get some thing to charge the 12 batteries and supply the 12v power to the future additions.  But I am not sure what size converter/charger I should try to get (amp size) or if there is a inverter that will charge the batteries and supply power when connected to shore power.  And what sizes I should be looking at.

I was thinking a 25 amp would be too small? would it work?

I am sure bigger would be better but how big?  I only have two auto size batteries in it now but i plan to add several 6 volt dp cycle type latter I don't want to short myself latter or to have to replace something again in the near future.


At this time i am not sure what I will be powering in the line of 12 volt but i know I want to add some house lights and at least 2 cigarette type / power plugs I am also looking into the possibilities of a propane furnace in the future if it can be done, still looking for a place to put it.

Bob

[luvrbus]

Bob if you not going to use an inverter with the charge option now buy yourself a Iota charger comes in 15 to 90 amps 2 stage or 3 stage   www.windsun.com has a sale on the units  buy the largest one you can afford a 90 amp won't over charge the batteries don't use a converter    good luck 

[Nick Badame Refrig/ACC]

Hi Bob,

If you have a 24v Vanner/equalizer, they have a 50amp 12v post that may solve your needs.

You would only be able to recharge while your bus engine is running..

Good Luck
Nick-

[Bob Gil]

Thanks Nick

But my bus is 12 volt and I need some thing to keep the batteries up when I plug it in when not in use.  And supply power when plugged in.

What is the difference of using a converter and just a charger?

[luvrbus]

Bob , a converter converts 110 to 12v they are a expensive RV product  from RV dealers the new ones have a fairly good charging system but some of the old units had a 5 amp charger

[JohnEd]

Bob,

Get a 2.5 or 3 KW inverter.  It will have a three stage battery charger that puts out 140 amps in three stages, has an equalizer feature and temperature compensation.  Also, you can run you roof AC from the inverter while you are running and the engine alternator is putting out the current you need.  If you are dry camping you will have a shorter generator operating cycle to recharge the bats with 140 on tap.  With temp sensing and three stage charging, the bats should give good and long service.  If the bats, alternator and inverter are well thought through you are powered and ready for effortless cruising.

Good luck,

John

[Bob Gil]

John that sounds great but I can't afford to pay more than half what I gave for the converted bus for one of them I need to get it around $200 or less.