quick question about charging

[Shogen 325]

I currently have 2 batteries in my car. I've been using my ctek 3300 to charge both at the same time...

Shizz mentioned something about not charging batteries at the same time because of possible issues with rest voltage differences between batteries. If I want to charge mine separately, could I just disconnect the positive(charge) wire and leave the ground connected when charging the batteries so they are charged separate???

Does this make sense?

[pmureika 31]

I currently have 2 batteries in my car. I've been using my ctek 3300 to charge both at the same time...

Shizz mentioned something about not charging batteries at the same time because of possible issues with rest voltage differences between batteries. If I want to charge mine separately, could I just disconnect the positive(charge) wire and leave the ground connected when charging the batteries so they are charged separate???

Does this make sense?

Do you mean one positive at a time? If you do that yes only the battery with the positive hooked up will charge. 

[swift 501]

As many batteries as he has no wonder his build log has taken so long. Its a three week process just charging his batteries. haha JK

 

I have 8 batteries, no way I'm doing them seperately. Hell, my charger is hooked directly up with ring terminals. All I do run a extension cord out once every couple weeks.

[Shogen 325]

What I currently do is just hook up my ctek to the trunk battery and lets them charge overnight.... But something about how shizz explained something recently made me think I should be just disconnecting the postivie wire connecting both batteries so that I can charge them individually.... Thats all

@swift....lol ... I have no build log cuz I has a muddy setup.... everything is unfinished and just not what it should be.....

[djjdnap 78]

http://www.bcae1.com/images/swfs/chargingdiagram.swf

 

yup

[Shogen 325]

http://www.bcae1.com/images/swfs/chargingdiagram.swf

 

yup

 

 

okay... I get that... thanks... BUT, I am only trying to figure out charging while the car is off, using my ctek and no audio playing..... ?

[Shogen 325]

I guess I will unhook the trunk battery for a few days and check resting voltage.... Then check the engine bay battery as well and see where it rests.... And then charge them separately to see if they come to the same voltage or not... Just curious to shizz's post in another thread....

[djjdnap 78]

Think of that alt as your ctek and ignore the other things.

Your only concerned about power sources.

 

bats, caps, inductors, lol...technically, caps short and inductors open when charged but this info serves no purpose here lol

 

so just the battery in this case.

 

I was trying to find the diagram like the one i posted that illustrated that, but cant find it.

Edited February 21, 2013 by djjdnap

[Shogen 325]

Think of that alt as your ctek and ignore the other things.

Your only concerned about power sources.

 

bats, caps, inductors, lol...technically, caps short and inductors open when charged but this info serves no purpose here lol

 

so just the battery in this case.

 

I was trying to find the diagram like the one i posted that illustrated that, but cant find it.

 

okay but specifically worried about matching voltages and whatnot..... that diagram does not explain nor display that...

[djjdnap 78]

Basically what i was trying to say was that if you disconnect the pos terminals, you will only charge the completed circuit connections.

 

The ones that have both + -

[Shogen 325]

Basically what i was trying to say was that if you disconnect the pos terminals, you will only charge the completed circuit connections.

 

The ones that have both + -

 ok that answers one part

[djjdnap 78]

the second part is true as well depending on your charger.

 

A smart charger will charge until it senses that the bat is fully,

if you have multiple batts it will charge until it senses 1 of the batts is fully charged.

Leaving the rest of the bank and whatever level it charged to prior to the other being fully charged.

 

If you have a bulk charger you can charge them all for as long as you want because it doesn't have any sensing technology.

The problem is you risk overcharging and damaging the batts.

 

 

Think of it as you have multiple buckets of water.

All are attached to the same hose.

You turn on the water and they all fill.

 

Lets say all the buckets are at different levels.

After one gets full you turn the water off.

the other buckets are still not full, only one is..

 

pretty much why they say you should have the same batts, and same age.

Edited February 21, 2013 by djjdnap

[Shogen 325]

the second part is true as well depending on your charger.

 

A smart charger will charge until it senses that the bat is fully,

if you have multiple batts it will charge until it senses 1 of the batts is fully charged.

Leaving the rest of the bank and whatever level it charged to prior to the other being fully charged.

 

If you have a bulk charger you can charge them all for as long as you want because it doesn't have any sensing technology.

The problem is you risk overcharging and damaging the batts.

 

 

I will look up the specs on my ctek then.... see what it states... if it has a "smart/signal sensing" feature then it will cease charging once one of the batteries reaches a "full" status according to the charging which would leave the other possibly uncharged or charged less .... BRB with specs

 

A Great All-Around Charger

CTEK offers a wide range of NEW GENERATION battery chargers. Unlike old battery chargers, CTEK chargers are designed with a focus on simplicity, safety and flexibility. The MULTI US 3300 is the charger that every household needs. It is perfectly suited for motorcycles, cars, lawn mowers, jet skis and any other vehicle with batteries up to 120Ah. Simply connect it and battery problems are in the past.

Fully automatic - for charging and maintenance

There is no need for any specific knowledge of batteries or their charging methods; the MULTI US 3300 will take care it. Once switched to the preferred mode, the charger takes its own readings and then begins to charge the battery. Once it is finished charging, it will automatically switch to its maintenance phase - CTEK's patented pulse charging - arguably the most caring mode for a battery connected for a long time. Simply connect it to solve most battery problems from the past.

Flexible for different battery needs

The MULTI US 3300 is specifically developed for different needs, vehicles and batteries. There is a choice between three different modes. The low current mode (the motorcycle icon) is perfect for smaller 12V batteries such as motorbikes, lawn mowers, jet skies, snowmobiles, etc. The higher current mode (the car icon) is for automotive or marine applications with larger batteries. Finally, an additional winter mode (the snowflake) is specifically aimed at charging and maintenance in cold weather. It is also perfectly suited for Optima Red Top batteries.

Patented desulphation function

Unused batteries lose their power and their life is shortened through sulphation. It is also more difficult to charge sulfated batteries. The MULTI US 3300 has a patented method for reconditioning sulfated batteries. The charger analyzes the state of the battery and, if possible, recovers the battery and its power.

Compatible with other electronic equipment

Most vehicles today are equipped with sensitive electronic systems. Unlike less-sophisticated chargers, there is no need to disconnect the battery; the MULTI US 3300 is specially designed to not damage electronic systems.

Made for all weather conditions and situations

The MULTI US 3300 is prepared to charge and maintain, no matter the weather, temperature or situation. The MULTI US 3300 is extremely robust and water and dust resistant (IP65 classification). The MULTI US 3300 is certified for use between -4°F and +122°F. In order to make things easier and more convenient, the Comfort Connect (eyelet terminals) can be permanently connected to the vehicle's battery.

Designed for safety

All CTEK models are designed to consider the safety of the user. They are spark free, making the connection much easier and safer considering the gases batteries normally produce. The MULTI US 3300 is also protected from reverse-polarity connections and is short-circuit proof. A red light on the charger will simply indicate that the charging cannot begin until the user has connected the charger correctly.

4 Step Charging Process

Technical Data

 

Spec Data Part No. 56-158 Input voltage AC 85-125VAC, 50-60Hz Output voltage Nominal: 12V Efficiency HIGH 85% Charging voltage 14.4V /14.7V Charging current 0.8/3.3A max Back current drain* <1Ah per month Ripple** 2% Ambient temperature -4°F to +122°F, output power is reduced automatically at higher temperatures Type of charger 4 step, fully automatic switch mode with pulse maintenance Type of batteries 12V lead-acid batteries (Wet, MF, AGM, GEL and Ca) Battery capacity 1.2-120Ah Dimensions (LxWxH) 6½ x 2 x 1½ inches Insulation IP65 (splash and dust proof) Certifications UL Weight 1.1lbs Warranty 5 years

*) Back current drain is what drains the battery if the charger is connected without the power cord connected.

**) Ripple describes the quality of the current and voltage. A high current ripple heats the battery and shortens its life. A linear charger has a current ripple of 70-400% which is much larger than the maximum 5% for a modern sealed battery. High voltage ripple could harm other equipment that is connected to the battery. MULTI US 3300 delivers voltage and current with very low ripple. The battery has a long service life and there is no risk of damage to other electronic devices connected to the battery.

A Great All-Around Charger

CTEK offers a wide range of NEW GENERATION battery chargers. Unlike old battery chargers, CTEK chargers are designed with a focus on simplicity, safety and flexibility. The MULTI US 3300 is the charger that every household needs. It is perfectly suited for motorcycles, cars, lawn mowers, jet skis and any other vehicle with batteries up to 120Ah. Simply connect it and battery problems are in the past.

Fully automatic - for charging and maintenance

There is no need for any specific knowledge of batteries or their charging methods; the MULTI US 3300 will take care it. Once switched to the preferred mode, the charger takes its own readings and then begins to charge the battery. Once it is finished charging, it will automatically switch to its maintenance phase - CTEK's patented pulse charging - arguably the most caring mode for a battery connected for a long time. Simply connect it to solve most battery problems from the past.

Flexible for different battery needs

The MULTI US 3300 is specifically developed for different needs, vehicles and batteries. There is a choice between three different modes. The low current mode (the motorcycle icon) is perfect for smaller 12V batteries such as motorbikes, lawn mowers, jet skies, snowmobiles, etc. The higher current mode (the car icon) is for automotive or marine applications with larger batteries. Finally, an additional winter mode (the snowflake) is specifically aimed at charging and maintenance in cold weather. It is also perfectly suited for Optima Red Top batteries.

Patented desulphation function

Unused batteries lose their power and their life is shortened through sulphation. It is also more difficult to charge sulfated batteries. The MULTI US 3300 has a patented method for reconditioning sulfated batteries. The charger analyzes the state of the battery and, if possible, recovers the battery and its power.

Compatible with other electronic equipment

Most vehicles today are equipped with sensitive electronic systems. Unlike less-sophisticated chargers, there is no need to disconnect the battery; the MULTI US 3300 is specially designed to not damage electronic systems.

Made for all weather conditions and situations

The MULTI US 3300 is prepared to charge and maintain, no matter the weather, temperature or situation. The MULTI US 3300 is extremely robust and water and dust resistant (IP65 classification). The MULTI US 3300 is certified for use between -4°F and +122°F. In order to make things easier and more convenient, the Comfort Connect (eyelet terminals) can be permanently connected to the vehicle's battery.

Designed for safety

All CTEK models are designed to consider the safety of the user. They are spark free, making the connection much easier and safer considering the gases batteries normally produce. The MULTI US 3300 is also protected from reverse-polarity connections and is short-circuit proof. A red light on the charger will simply indicate that the charging cannot begin until the user has connected the charger correctly.

4 Step Charging Process

Technical Data

 

Spec Data Part No. 56-158 Input voltage AC 85-125VAC, 50-60Hz Output voltage Nominal: 12V Efficiency HIGH 85% Charging voltage 14.4V /14.7V Charging current 0.8/3.3A max Back current drain* <1Ah per month Ripple** 2% Ambient temperature -4°F to +122°F, output power is reduced automatically at higher temperatures Type of charger 4 step, fully automatic switch mode with pulse maintenance Type of batteries 12V lead-acid batteries (Wet, MF, AGM, GEL and Ca) Battery capacity 1.2-120Ah Dimensions (LxWxH) 6½ x 2 x 1½ inches Insulation IP65 (splash and dust proof) Certifications UL Weight 1.1lbs Warranty 5 years

*) Back current drain is what drains the battery if the charger is connected without the power cord connected.

**) Ripple describes the quality of the current and voltage. A high current ripple heats the battery and shortens its life. A linear charger has a current ripple of 70-400% which is much larger than the maximum 5% for a modern sealed battery. High voltage ripple could harm other equipment that is connected to the battery. MULTI US 3300 delivers voltage and current with very low ripple. The battery has a long service life and there is no risk of damage to other electronic devices connected to the battery.

Edited February 21, 2013 by Shogen

[Shogen 325]

sorry for the F'd format ... highlighted main areas of concerns

[swift 501]

I have one of my Die Hards that rests at 12.7, the other rest at 12.9, my XS batteries rest at 13.0. This is charging them, all seperately and letting them sit 2 days afterwards to find resting voltage before I installed them. With them all linked together resting voltage is 12.9 with the truck off.  I'm cool with it

 

Good luck finding multiple batteries to match exactly.  I understand the lower ones may pull alittle from the higher resting ones but thats just part of it.

[Shogen 325]

I have one of my Die Hards that rests at 12.7, the other rest at 12.9, my XS batteries rest at 13.0. This is charging them, all seperately and letting them sit 2 days afterwards to find resting voltage before I installed them. With them all linked together resting voltage is 12.9 with the truck off.  I'm cool with it

 

Good luck finding multiple batteries to match exactly.  I understand the lower ones may pull alittle from the higher resting ones but thats just part of it.

 

 

I just want to make sure/check it out.... not really having any issues but was intrigued by shizz's comment so thought I would ask..... resting voltage with both batteries connected usually is at 12.9 - 12.86v mostly but after an overnight charge in their connected state the resting voltage is usually at 13.0v

[The enD 467]

Shizzz's post got me thinking too. But then again I am charging my batteries with the alternator almost every day for 30-60 minutes with driving, if it was problematic it would have already shown. Tho here we are talking about quite a longer period of charge.

 

But since my charge is not "smart" I'll just charge mine both at the same time.

That also got me thinking, if the batteries will be getting the same charge this way. The one with lower resistance will be getting more. But then they will get an equal voltage and receive the same charge. Correct me, if I am wrong here.

 

But If you've got a smart charger and it's not too hard to disconnect each battery just don't risk it and charge separately.

[Shogen 325]

Shizzz's post got me thinking too. But then again I am charging my batteries with the alternator almost every day for 30-60 minutes with driving, if it was problematic it would have already shown. Tho here we are talking about quite a longer period of charge.

 

But since my charge is not "smart" I'll just charge mine both at the same time.

That also got me thinking, if the batteries will be getting the same charge this way. The one with lower resistance will be getting more. But then they will get an equal voltage and receive the same charge. Correct me, if I am wrong here.

 

But If you've got a smart charger and it's not too hard to disconnect each battery just don't risk it and charge separately.

 

the alternator never "fully' charges the battery as in "top it off" .... AFAIK and have read in the past

Edited February 21, 2013 by Shogen

[shizzzon 461]

I think i know what shizzz's post is saying, let me explain-

 

In my vehicle, i have 12 batts in the back.

 

They are divided in 4 sets of 3.

 

Instead of trying to charge all 12 separate, I have the ability to separate them when troubleshooting and charging 3 at a time.

 

Normally, I WOULD charge all 12 at a time because they are all the same make, model and age and it's power distribution is completely uniform.

 

For batteries that are not all the same, previous posts have explained it well.

 

It will "work" to charge em all together but i'm after longevity and if i can get an extra 1-3yrs out of my batts after 5yrs of use, then i will follow recommendations.

 

to PROPERLY charge a bank regardless of model, etc.. is to use a charger with an equalizer function on it.

 

As long as all the batts are of the same technology, this shouldnt be an issue.

I'll be buying a charger like this soon. Cheapest good one i found is around $220 but well worth it.

[Shogen 325]

I think i know what shizzz's post is saying, let me explain-

 

In my vehicle, i have 12 batts in the back.

 

They are divided in 4 sets of 3.

 

Instead of trying to charge all 12 separate, I have the ability to separate them when troubleshooting and charging 3 at a time.

 

Normally, I WOULD charge all 12 at a time because they are all the same make, model and age and it's power distribution is completely uniform.

 

For batteries that are not all the same, previous posts have explained it well.

 

It will "work" to charge em all together but i'm after longevity and if i can get an extra 1-3yrs out of my batts after 5yrs of use, then i will follow recommendations.

 

to PROPERLY charge a bank regardless of model, etc.. is to use a charger with an equalizer function on it.

 

As long as all the batts are of the same technology, this shouldnt be an issue.

I'll be buying a charger like this soon. Cheapest good one i found is around $220 but well worth it.

 

 

THANKS!!! care to share the model you speak of?

[shizzzon 461]

Lol, well, i would have posted it but since i haven't looked at it in like 5 months, i forgot the name.. let me find it.  I know all the specs so hopefully wont take too long to find.

 

IT's basically considered the best AGM charger possible on this planet.

[djjdnap 78]

http://www.irv2.com/forums/f54/equalize-batts-with-which-charger-87298.html

 

Lots of good info

[shizzzon 461]

Ok, check this out-

 

Four-Stage Charging System- patented Microprocessor constantly monitors battery voltage and automatically selects one of the four charging modes; BOOST, NORMAL, STORAGE or EQUALIZE.

 

• Patented Reverse Battery Protection- prevents converter/charger from being damaged if the batteries are accidentally connected to the charger in reverse.
• Over Voltage Protection- prevents high voltage spikes from damaging the converter/charger.
• Electronic Current Limiting- limits the output current to the maximum rating of the charger to prevent overheating and damage caused by shorts or excessive loads.
• Intelligent Cooling Fan- only runs as fast as required to maintain a more constant operating temperature inside the converter/charger. This feature reduces thermal stress caused by fans that cycle on and off.
• Programmable in the Field- to provide optimum charging profiles for lead-acid, gel-cell, or AGM batteries.
• Regulated Output Voltage- prevents AC Line voltage variations from being transmitted to the batteries and 12 volt circuits.
• Automatic Over-Temperature Shutdown- prevents converter/charger damage in the event the fan is unable to cool the charger due to inadequate compartment ventilation.
• Series or Parallel Connection- Inteli-Power Converter/Chargers can be connected in series to provide a combination 12/24 Volt system, or in parallel to provide more current.

The PD9280 is a 80-amp Electronic Marine Converter/Charger that incorporates a microprocessor that constantly monitors battery voltage, then automatically selects one of four operating modes to ensure safe, rapid recharging cycles. The Storage Mode and the Equalize Mode of operation ensures minimum battery gassing and water loss while preventing battery stratification and sulfation. All Inteli-Power chargers are designed to meet the stringent requirements of the Marine environment and are UL listed for safety. A digital meter displays current, voltage, operation mode, blown fuse indication, and battery type.

 

 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Progressive-Dynamics-Inteli-power-RV-Converter-PD9280-/140910272136?pt=Motors_RV_Trailer_Camper_Parts_Accessories&vxp=mtr&hash=item20cee81e88

Edited February 21, 2013 by shizzzon

[Shogen 325]

Lol, well, i would have posted it but since i haven't looked at it in like 5 months, i forgot the name.. let me find it.  I know all the specs so hopefully wont take too long to find.

 

IT's basically considered the best AGM charger possible on this planet.

lmao..... thanks for the rave review Shizz

[bassahaulic 155]

Ain't nobody got time for that.