Date:         Fri, 27 Apr 2007 09:25:35 -0700
Reply-To:     neil <musomuso@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         neil <musomuso@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Charging the battery
Comments: To: PB <pbrattan@gmail.com>
In-Reply-To:  <699b6e3f0704270237o56ca8613vc5e2e0dc91c483a8@mail.gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed

Not that you asked but.......  ;^)

*IF* your aux battery uses a relay or isolator, (most likely) is wired
correctly (most likely) and parts are working, then in theory, the
positive posts of the batteries are UN-connected when engine NOT
running. As they should be. Thus you don't need to disconnect one of
the battery cables at starter battery if charging battery. Regardless
I would dissconnect the ground on any battery I charge.

The batteries aren't connected to each other (and to the vehicles
charging system) with engine off, because relay isn't energized. With
engine running, the relay is energized so the positive posts of the
two batteries are connected so that they can both recieve power from
alternator.

I like the idea that was posted of a battery lifter (rubber strap w/
"hook" for posts on each end) best. Though I wonder how much stress
this puts on batteries' plastic around posts. I've been using two
pieces of coated copper wire (scavanged from residential wire) as
"handles" for lifting starter battery out. Maybe not the best stuff as
the casing (coating on wire) is getting worn off thus providing a
*small* liability.

You may find removing ground clamp from braided ground wire makes it
easier to get battery out.


Neil.




On 4/27/07, PB <pbrattan@gmail.com> wrote:
> At this point in time, there are no "no brainers" regarding the Westy!
> (LOL)  However I did read this in the user manual.  My husband told me that
> I have to disconnect 1 battery terminal in order to charge the battery, but
> I don't understand exactly why.  He said something about if I don't
> disconnect the main battery, the charger will charge the auxiliary battery
> instead of the main one, or something like that  I need to get my aux.
> battery system checked.  I don't know if it's working properly.
> Patti
> *********************************