Continuous Duty Solenoid or not?

[dlivesgreen]

Hello out there,<br>I am wondering if anyone is using a continuous duty solenoid.&nbsp; I also have a solar panel and I am wondering if anyone has both or any suggestions on how to set it up to use both.&nbsp; I would love to harness the power from the motor when I can, but I don't want to make any pricey mistakes.<br>

 

[gadgetMe]

I use one on my suburban, that charges the trailer batteries when I drive. It disconnects when the engine is turned off. (control part of the circuit is tied to the ignition side of the elec system)<br><br>Works very well, I am able to use the truck charging system when driving, putting in more amperage (to charge batteries) than the solar will.<br><br>The solar regulator (if you have one) will reduce it's output sensing the external voltage coming in.<br><br>I purchased a constant duty solenoid from Graingers, it has been working for the last 6 years flawlessly <br><br><img src="http://images.grainger.com/B327_27/images/products/250x250/DC-Power-Solenoid-6C028_AS01.JPG">At the top of the solenoid are two posts. one is for the wire that will activate it, (hot) the other is a ground, that is grounded to the body or engine ( some body parts are plastic) I does not make any difference which post is wired to the hot or ground.<br><br>Also, use pretty heavy wire to go to the back of the vehicle, even the smallest alternators will put out 35 amps ( I used #2 welding wire, But I am charging 4 - 6volt batteries) I would use at least a 8 gauge wire.<br><br>Putz<br>

<br><a target="_blank" href="http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/WHITERODGERS-DC-Power-Solenoid-6C030?Pid=search">grainger link</a><br><br>

 

[dlivesgreen]

Thanks for the input.&nbsp; I do have a solar regulator and I will have to make sure that it will do what you are saying.&nbsp; It makes sense because they are designed to not over charge the battery and regulate voltage.<br>

 

[Guest]

I do too Dlivesgreen....Just as Pondputz says....I use it with solar in the system....I have the output of the regulator connected to the battery bank side of the solenoid.&nbsp;&nbsp; There should be no problem at all....<br>Bri<br><br>

 

[dlivesgreen]

Thanks.&nbsp; It is good to hear that I can use what I already have.&nbsp; Now I just need to get the money for batteries, brackets (for panel) and wire.&nbsp; This will let me get the panel off of my bed, so I can start using it and get on the road.<br><br>

 

[akrvbob]

You will love solar power!! It is just so amazing to glance over at the controller&nbsp; and see it charging your batteries for free in total silence. Have you started a thread in the follow your conversion forum? We would love to follow your progress! Bob<br>

 

[dlivesgreen]

Yes I started a thread but i need to update it.&nbsp; I have most of my personal stuff in it I just need to sort everything.&nbsp; I also need to purge a lot of stuff.&nbsp; Once the panel is up and the electric system is finished I will take more pictures.<br>

 

[akrvbob]

Let me warn you, that purging stuff never ends!! Just today I found a bunch of stuff to take to the thrift store, and I've been doing this a long time! Keep at it, this life is well worth it!! Bob<br>

 

[Kenny]

Found this site that does a good job explaining how to wire the solenoid up!<br><br><br>http://www.tombarcia.net/Truck/DualBatt/DualBattery.htm<br><br><br>

 

[dlivesgreen]

thanks Kenny! That is a great schematic.&nbsp; I did electrical design for a local power company, so a schematic is right up my alley.&nbsp; <br>