Leisure battery

[simon lewis]

Just bought an 89 Leisuredrive and I'm starting to do it up a little.
At the moment it doesn't have a leisure battery, everything is coming off the van battery (just the kitchen water pump and 3 lights). I tried fitting a leisure battery with a split charge relay, but the van alternater is'nt supplying enough current to trigger the relay (13.7v and it needs 14v).
Before I go any further, I'm wondering if I'm worrying too much since the habitation electrics are so basic. Should i just fit a small solar panel to top up the battery.

[eatcustard]

Welcome

My leisure battery charges at 13.5-13.8
So to get over 14v is going to be hard, change the relay to kick in lower?

[kevtherev]

the relay is triggered by the smaller post on the Alternator. then earthed
you should have a 12V relay with a 70A capability from the larger 8mm post.

I have one here if you can't get one from a car accessory, shop or a caravan shop, or on line, or maplins.

[Hacksawbob]

is'nt supplying enough current to trigger the relay

I think you mean voltage, as Kev says if your relay isn't triggered by 12V then you dont have a 12V relay.

Or you have a voltage sensing relay like this
http://www.thetoolboxshop.com/0-727-33- ... 8096-p.asp

[simon lewis]

Thanks for the advice lads, I'll have another go this weekend.