Portable Power Solutions for Campers on the move

Although dual-battery systems have been around for many decades – commonly in the form of a manually operated switch – it was only until 1998 that the split-charging system was automated via an Intelligent Solenoid. A short while later, the market called for a portable version, one that could be recharged via a vehicle’s alternator, …

Fast Charge

Is it time to ditch your lead-acid battery for lithium-ion technology? While some overland travellers have migrated away from lead-acid batteries in favour of Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4), others are not yet convinced of the economics. Although it may be true that the higher costs of a LiFePO4 auxiliary battery make it harder to justify …

DC to DC Chargers: When is bigger better?

QUESTION I read your previous column that compared the recharge performance of an Intelligent Solenoid system against your very own 25A DC-DC charger. In the same editorial, you mentioned that the results would differ if a 40A charger were used. Well, I’ve got my heart set on a DC-DC setup, purely because I like the …

PART 1: How to CONNECT a solar panel to a dual-battery system

Whether you’re a weekend camper or long-haul overlander, there’s no denying the convenience of a solar setup. Aside from having free energy to power your camping fridge, a solar panel can also be used to maintain your auxiliary battery for optimum service life. With this in mind, here’s a basic guide on how to connect …

WHAT IS THE BEST DUAL-BATTERY SYSTEM FOR YOUR 4X4?

The 4×4 travel market has no shortage of hot debates and shootout tests. Whether it be vehicles in a comparison, or tyres, suspension, fridges, winches, or even camping pots for that matter, people want to know what works “best”. However, there’s one subject that many overland travellers are generally keen to steer clear of, and …

Why Your Auxiliary Battery Is Not Charging

QUESTION My dual-battery isn’t charging. I had a solenoid system installed in my 4×4 just over a year ago. The setup seemed to work fine the first time, but now there’s very little power in my auxiliary battery when I get to camp. On my most recent trip I spent anywhere between 3 to 4-hours …

Hou Die Lading Reg

Hoe om na jou ekstra battery te kyk Met die Paasvakansie agter die rug, is die kans goed dat jou ekstra battery ’n bietjie instandhoudingswerk nodig het. Jou battery doen dalk permanente skade op terwyl jy hier lees! Maar moenie bekommerd wees nie – daar’s nog tyd om jou battery te red en sy lewe …