Looking for long term feedback from anyone who is running a smart alternator..........

[TwinStick]

and dc to dc charger for aux battery systems. Wondering if anyone has had any negative effects on smart alternator or new vehicle electronics in general. Our platform is a 2023 Chevy Colorado ZR2. Bought new and currently has 12k miles.

Thanks for the feedback.

 

[Gravelette]

No personal experience but there has been a lot of discussion on some RV forums I read. Folks add the dc to dc chargers to ensure a steady charge to travel trailer house batteries via the 7 pin. Left to their own, the smart alternators often don't do much. I haven't read of any downsides.

 

[donmontalvo]

My 2021 JLUR has a DCDC charger that keeps the 100Ah LiFePO4 battery charged when the engine is on.



It also trickles power to my 2024 nuCamp T@B 320S BBC camping trailer over the 7-pin, thanks to the Tow Package, it is a 240 AMP alternator.

I need to disconnect the 7-pin when I'm stopped for the night, to prevent the JLUR starter battery from draining.

I haven't been able to sort out whether I need to get an Isolation Relay installed so I won't have to unplug the 7-pin anymore. Over my head.