Adding a second leisure battery to a new vehicle with solar panal fitted?

[fesspark]

Do I need to disconnect the solar panal if I am just adding a second leisure battery to a new vehicle? Fesspark

[sshortcircuit]

No

[747]

You could always chuck an old bit of carpet over it if you want.

[Alanb]

Always treat batteries with extreme caution. They have a lot of energy stored in them, and can give off an explosive hydrogen / oxygen mixture. It is therfore sensible to take all reasonably practicable steps to minimise the risk of sparking in their vicinity. When connecting batteries this means switching OFF loads, and sources of charge.

 

Alan

[aandncaravan]

Fesspark, I assume you are asking because all you intend to do, is keep everything in circuit and just branch off to the new battery?

I would guess the point of your question is because the Solar panel will remain connected to the batteries at all times, there will be no break, so no risk?

If so so then there is no need to disturb/worry about the Solar at all, bearing in mind the warnings above.

 

 

However, the ideal way to wire in a second battery is to have the positive connected to one battery and move the negative to the new battery. This ensures they are balanced so one battery won't be doing all the work. Then wire negative to negative and positive to positive.

For that you need to break the existing circuit so should isolate the Solar Panel from the Solar regulator, or cover over the Solar panel.

 

Just moving the Earth/Negative so it goes to battery B in the picture below makes a significant difference.

 

It may only look a subtle charge, but an important one.

 

Don't forget to lock up the Frost Protection valve before you start, if relevant.

 

 

[fesspark]

Thankyou,those that answered, I have it now how to do it and have gone through the process with my present m,home, all works well, Cheers Fesspark.