Charging Advise (CTEK DS250S)

[juln]

Hi All,

I am in the process of converting my Toyota hiace into a camper for a trip later on this year. I am in the completion stage and just and just need to really fit it out (all done just waiting for it to be fixed in place).

I have been fortunate enough to receive a CTEK D250S & 2x 125ah batteries.

I have a couple of questions, is it recommended to get a smart pass? Its a bit of extra cost and i dont want it if its not needed, i will just be running a light at night, fridge and maybe charging my laptop / phone.

Also I was looking at a way to charge from AC power when i have the opportunity. I was looking at the CTEK XS25.
Can i connect the XS25 Directly to the Solar input of the D250S? I have been looking into it and it seems on paper it may work. although i was hoping for some confirmation.

These questions are stopping me from completing the van, any advice would be appreciated.

 

[Weasel with a Diesel]

Depending on the battery and factory recommendation charging current should be around 10% to 30% of the battery capacity.
10 % of 250 Ah is already 25 A.
The DS 250S is only able to supply up to 10A.

I just charged a half drained 50Ah battery this weekend- the charging current was 45(!)A. So batteries can draw a significant current! This draw continued just for an hour, but it is still there.
Now start thinking of the current draw of a half drained 250Ah battery bank...