ArkPak + Fridge Problem?

[erstwild]

I recently put together the following:

ArkPak 730 with BattleBorn LiFePO4 100 amp/hr battery in hopes of powering my National Luna 52L Weekender.

I installed the battery in the ArkPak, changed the settings for LiFePO4, and charged it up.

The ArkPak has a standard 50a Anderson output. The National Luna fridge has a 50a Anderson power cable. I plug it in and try to power on the fridge. Nothing. I change the fridge power cutoff settings. Still nothing.

Anyone have any ideas about what might be failing me in the chain?

One thought is the power cord is 4m long. Perhaps despite the good connection types there is still too much voltage drop in the cable?

 

[Josie'slandcruiser]

First thought is to plug the frig into a regular 12v outlet (in your truck, etc.) and ensure it runs.

Is the 100AH battery fully charged ? Does the ArkPack have a fuse?

I am not familiar with National Luna frigs but it should not take more than 10 amps (?) to start up - probably closer to 5.

I would guess your issue is either a poor electrical connection, or a blown fuse.

Good luck!

Alan

 

[john61ct]

ArkPak specifically states to not use LFP batts.

Not saying relevant here, but. . .

The internal BMS may see the startup current required as too high.

 

[moabian]

ArkPak specifically states to not use LFP batts.

Not true. The 730 was designed for use with LiFePO4 batteries and has a setting specifically for that battery type. I've had the 730 for 3 years and switched about a year ago to the same battery the OP is using. The first battery I got from Battle Born was defective, but the second has been working fine since I received the replacement in February.

As someone has already stated, use a voltmeter to determine where power is or is not. The Arkpak display should show the charge state of the battery. The first battery I received from ArkPak worked fine for a few months, then the BMS stopped allowing it to take a charge.

My ArkPak is used to power a 63-quart ARB...and to charge drone batteries.

 

[erstwild]

Thanks for your input all. It turns out that I had a bad fuse. Fixed it and everything is working like a charm now. Hopefully no issues with the BattleBorn, but I have a 1 year warranty. Glad to finally have a reliable battery source for the National Luna.

 

[john61ct]

The 730 was designed for use with LiFePO4 batteries and has a setting specifically for that battery type.

Interesting.

A staffer came through another forum I use and said the opposite.

I'll see if I can contact him to resolve the issue.

 

[moabian]

I would have to say that since the ArkPak website states the 730 is "compatible with Lithium LiFePO4 batteries", there is a specific setting in the 730 for that battery type, and quite a few people have been using LiFePO4 batteries without issue in the 730, that the issue is resolved.