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  • Which split charge is best for me?

    Which split charge is best for me?

  • Which split charge is best for me?

    Which split charge is best for me?

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What split charge relay is for me?

4276 Views 8 Liked
2 Reviews
Rating:
5.0
Posted on: October 19th 2018
By: James Withams

Which split charge relay is for me?

Here at Rayne Automotive, and in the world of charging in general, there are three main split charge types; ignition triggered, voltage sensing and smart alternator DC-DC charger.

 

Today we are looking to clear up the much-asked question, “which type do I need?” we are going to go through the merits of each one and provide a few rules of thumb for which one is for you.

 

 

Pros

Cons

Voltage sensing (VSR)

More modern technology

More expensive than ignition triggered relays of a similar amperage

Easier to fit

 

Covers more eventualities

 

CAN-BUS friendly

.

 

 Ignition Triggered

More versatile and can have manual override functions

Has to be connected to an ignition live feed

Cheaper than VSR

 

Available in more variants to suit individual needs

 

Very easy to mount with it’s traditional screw hole bracket

 

Can go up to 200A capacity

 

.

 

Smart Alternator

DC-DC Charger

Highly intelligent, variable charging capacity

More expensive than the other types

Can be used as a solar controller also

Has to be connected to an ignition live feed

Compatible with brand new vehicles, fitted with smart alternators

 

Provides a smooth charge with temperature adjustable voltage

.

 

 

So now we have seen the merits of each relay, you’re probably thinking; “that’s great, but which one is best for me?” well below is a list of situations and the best relay for them and the reason why.

 

Situation

Relay type

Reasoning

Pre 1990 vehicle

Ignition triggered

The main advantage of the VSR is it’s ease of fitting, this is somewhat negated on early vehicles due to how easy it is to find an ignition live and generally how simple the electrical systems are.

Heavy usage, such as winching or large inverters

Ignition triggered

Rayne Automotives’ range of relays is far more extensive in the ignition triggered range, meaning we can supply ultra-heavy usage kits of up to 200A continuous.

Modern vehicles (post 1990)

Voltage sensing

In modern vehicles, the ease of fitting of the VSR really comes into it’s own. In addition to this the VSR is CAN-BUS friendly so won’t interfere with your vehicles electrical systems.

Euro 5/6 vehicles (aprox. 2015 on)

Smart Alternator DC DC charger

Vehicles fitted with a smart (or variable voltage) alternator need a different charging system all together due to the changes in their voltage output.

 

If you have any more questions, or aren’t sure which system you need, please don’t hesitate to contact us and a member of our technical team will walk you through it. Thanks for looking!

Tags : 12v, Leisure battery, Smart alternator, Split charge
Posted in: Archive - How to Guides
Author: James Withams

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Comments

  • split charge
    By : Graham On July 24th 2019
    Rating:
    5.0

    Got a 2008 VW Crafter on its way. simple question, which split charge would i need before i order a wiring kit. Also with your kit, if i fit a solar panel with a MPPT controller will that be compatible with your kit ?? Cheers Graham

    Replied by : Rayne Admin Hi Graham, Thanks for your comment, with a 2008 model, the best relay would be the voltage sensing split charge relay. It would be fine to add an MPPT solar charge controller onto it too. If you let me know what size panels you're after, I can price what controllers we have to suit. I look forward to hearing from you. James.

  • Split charge relay
    By : Chris On March 24th 2019
    Rating:
    5.0

    Hi. I’m just wondering which type of split charge system I need to choose with my wiring kit order. I have a 61 plate VW t5. I think it’s the voltage sensing type but just wanted to ask the experts first. Thanks in advance, Chris.

    Replied by : Rayne Admin Hi Chris, Thanks for commenting. For a 2011/12 vehicle I would recommend the voltage sensing split charge kit. That's going to be the best one. I hope this helps and if you have any further queries or questions, please don't hesitate to ask. Kind regards James

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