How to install battery isolator switch

Because the alternator needs to be running for a VSR to work, if your starter battery is dead, there is no direct way to use the leisure batteries to help start the van. There is a relatively small risk of needing to do this anyway if your starter battery is healthy. Best Use: You want the easiest way to get alternator power in a set-and-forget system.

With no voltage drop, this will be the go-to option for most camper vans. Diode based isolators are the tried-and-true system for electricians. They use electrical magic to charge starter battery and after it is fully charged they divert power to the leisure batteries. This type of Isolator installation is slightly different from the other options. The Isolator is wired in between the alternator and the starter battery.

For some newer vehicles, a simple isolator creates problems with the electrical system. In this case, a 4-post isolator can be used although they are about twice as expensive. See the install instructions on Littlefuse. The linked isolator is fully sealed in epoxy with large cooling fins to reduce the strain on the electronics. There are no moving parts to break and because it is fully sealed it is water and dust resistant.

Best Use: You want the most robust option available and are willing to trade a little voltage drop in exchange. Kate is the lead content creator for ParkedInParadise. She has traveled through 48 US states and writes about van life, camping and RV living. What Is A Battery Isolator? For those camping for long periods of time without driving, this may be an optimum approach. How To Install A Battery Isolator As we said, there are a couple of different ways of hooking up your secondary battery.

Manual Switch Wiring Diagram. Purchase on Amazon. The battery switch allows you to switch between 1 or more batteries and sometimes a combination of batteries.

A common battery switch lets you choose Battery 1; Battery 2 or both. Whichever battery you choose is connected directly to the engine, alternator and accessories. The switch lets you drain one battery, then switch to another to start the engine.

Cons: Requires user to manually switch between batteries. Heavy battery cables must be run to the switch. The solenoid isolator uses a continuous duty solenoid to connect the auxiliary battery during certain times like starting and charging then disconnects when not in use.

Depending on how the solenoid is wired, it can be switched to be:. Build Your Own Battery Cables. Do You Need New Cables? Installing your own cutoff switch is relatively easy, but please heed the cautions outlined below. If you are skittish about playing with electricity, or not sure how to continue, consult a professional. A cutoff switch is installed on or near the battery, and is used primarily to prevent battery charge depletion and for long-term storage.

A fused switch will maintain current to your alarm, on-board computer, central locking system, and stereo, but still prevent your car from starting - the current generated when attempting to start the vehicle will blow the fuse and shut down all electrical connections.

Buy a new switch. The easiest type of switch you can use is a simple terminal disconnect switch. This is very important!

Choosing a switch that is used, worn, or underrated can result in serious electrical problems or even fire. Do this first to avoid the possibility of electrical short circuiting or shock, neither of which are good for your vehicle or your body! Carefully remove the battery clamp from the negative lead and save it should you want to remove your cutoff switch later.

Clean your terminals and check the fluid levels in your battery. Attach the battery cutoff switch to the negative terminal, and tighten securely. Reattach the positive lead to the positive battery terminal, and tighten securely.

Following the instructions that come with your switch, reattach the negative lead to the switch, and tighten securely. Make sure the cutoff switch is turned off. Test the system by starting your vehicle. If all is works as expected, turn off the vehicle and engage the cutoff switch.

Make sure you still have power to all systems. Do not attempt to start your vehicle with the cutoff switch engaged, or you will blow the fuse. Wherever you put it. I suggest on the battery, as displayed in the article. No car comes with them installed. Yes No. Not Helpful 1 Helpful 1. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube. Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0.