Handy product

[sendiw]

Came across this product and thought it may be of interest to some of you.

http://www.bailcast.com/en-gb/products/ ... solarguard" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[CovKid]

Probably should go in 'chat' this post. Solar chargers aren't new but the gadget to restore sulphated batteries - think I'd need firm scientific evidence that it actually worked

[sendiw]

Cant comment about the science of it all but the company is UK based in case of any problems. I notice they also do a seperate battery rejuvenator product. Would be interesting to hear from someone who has used these products. Maybe when I'm feeling flush I will treat myself to one and let you know.

[Oldiebut goodie]

Probably should go in 'chat' this post. Solar chargers aren't new but the gadget to restore sulphated batteries - think I'd need firm scientific evidence that it actually worked

It doesn't restore a sulphated battery (if the desulphater is any good the amount of drain from it will not be replaced by the puny charger) it just keeps the battery from getting discharged through small drains thus the battery does not get sulphated - if you want to desulphate a battery you will need a proper gizmo (easy enough to build yourself - I have a 110Ah battery that I am desulphating at present)).
I have a 40w solar panel to keep my batteries up to spec - that one posted is one hell of a steep price for a 2.4w solar charger!

(Why does the spell checker think that sulphur and sulphated are incorrect spellings?)

[T'Onion]

cheaper at maplins

[Red Westie]

Exactly the same solar panel I purchased from Maplins for £12.99.....(was a special, think they are normally £17.99)

I've got two smaller 1.5watt panels for sale £4.00 & £7.00 if anyone is interested.

Completely useless as a charger but very good for preventing battery sulphation if the vehicle is left standing for weeks on end.

Martin

[sendiw]

Hmmm. ..I see. I wont bother with one then. Thanks for the enlightenment folks.

[Fritz]

Nice one Richie, looks like you have won this weeks coconut for useful gadgets.......



Regards


Fritz,,,,,,,

[treacle]

Completely useless as a charger i have one on my van and it was a waste of money

[sendiw]

Nice one Richie, looks like you have won this weeks coconut for useful gadgets.......



Regards


Fritz,,,,,,,

I'm getting quite a collection of these coconuts. Maybe I should start making my own Bounties.

[CovKid]

Give the magnets on fuel lines a go. The manufacturer speaks very highly of them Seriously though, there does seem some evidence that a desulphator can revitalise an ailing battery but not sure its not cheaper to just get a new battery in the end. I too have a solar trickle charger but its yet to work as it claims and its been in the van six months

[Oldiebut goodie]

You might care to peruse the forums here http://leadacidbatterydesulfation.yuku.com - it's not all snake oil,rocking horse poo etc.

[Red Westie]

Ayup.....when I said they were completely useless as a charger I didn't mean they 'COMPLETLY USELESS full stop.
I happen to believe they are extremely useful in maintaining charge when parked up and are essential for battery longevity. If you use your camper 'as I do' sporadicly , sometimes 3-4 times in one week and other times, sat there not started for several weeks. This is very typical Camper Use and so these solar panels come highly recommended.
So rather than put you off I would whole heartedly recommend you get one or even two. REALLY.....

Martin

[CovKid]

I think you're right Martin but the tiny ones don't seem much use in my opinion. I've got a voltmeter fitted and panel or no panel voltage still drops. This might improve with a bigger panel though.

[sendiw]

I think I will just put my trickle charger on when the van is laid up. That firm mainly do cv boots/kits etc.. worth a look.