Redarc Manager 30

[Cheyne78]

Im considering replacing the solar controller with the new Redarc Manager 30 which has just come out and wouldd welcome any advice on connection options. Im not impressed with the Jayco supplied solar regulator (charging 2 *100AH from a 120W panel). My DC charger in the car seems to achieve a much higher output than the Jayco solar reg but admittedly the aux battery in the car is smaller, hence charges quicker. The new Redarc unit is an 8 stage 240v charger, MPPT solar regulator and DC charger all in one. What I can't figure out is how I could wire in the Redarc whilst still maintaining the 240 to 12v conversion of the Setec? Is it possible to have both units connected to the batteries or can I run the Redarc into the Setec Aux in place of the current solar regulator?
Lastly I want to run a second (portable panel) as on another thread so will simply use y connectors to connect the two panels before the input into the solar input of the Redarc.

I think Ill leave this install to the experts but would welcome some independent advice before i shell out $$$ on an overpriced 4WD shop doing an install (being there done that)...

The gear these guys put out is simply awesome and being Aus made is important. No, Im not affiliated but a very satisfied customer. Hopefully they'll be on sale at the 4WD show on the weekend

 

[Capt. Gadget]

I disconnected my Setec and fitted a Ctek D250sDual which is probably similar to your Redarc and also a Ctek MSX25 Charger for when I'm plugged in to 240. From memory I think the Setek has an input maximum of 14.8v

 

[Racer]

Simply unplugged the Setec from the power point and plug in your smart charger. I have done this with two Jaycos, wire your smart charger direct to one of your batteries. No issues.

Personally I'd stick with the Jayco regulator, it's a 30amp PWM. I used our van for the first time, free camping over 4 days. Running 4 showers, stereo, tv for kids, lights on, battery never got below 12.9 during evening after showers, per day. I had same intentions before getting our van regarding upgrading the regulator n I won't bother.

2 x 100ah
1 x 120w solar

I also have an additional 190w panel which I have bypassed it's regulator. Van has external link to Jayco regulator and I've added an input in the D250S when I am vehicle only.

What are you running that requires more?

 

[Cheyne78]

Thanks @Capt. Gadget and @Racer . So Im assuming if I unplug the Setec it will still operate as a step down transformer from 240 to 12v when plugged in at a caravan park but all charging will come from the Redarc?

Simply unplugged the Setec from the power point and plug in your smart charger. I have done this with two Jaycos, wire your smart charger direct to one of your batteries. No issues.

Personally I'd stick with the Jayco regulator, it's a 30amp PWM. I used our van for the first time, free camping over 4 days. Running 4 showers, stereo, tv for kids, lights on, battery never got below 12.9 during evening after showers, per day. I had same intentions before getting our van regarding upgrading the regulator n I won't bother.

2 x 100ah
1 x 120w solar

I also have an additional 190w panel which I have bypassed it's regulator. Van has external link to Jayco regulator and I've added an input in the D250S when I am vehicle only.

What are you running that requires more?

Its more that Id prefer to have one system that does the whole thing rather than having a separate regulator and 240v charger (and no DC charger). The State of charge on the Redarc also replaces the need for a Drifter control panel to tell you how long is left on battery power. Thanks for your help as it clarifies / reinforces what I suspected.
Cheyne

 

[Bmhdg76]

Bringing up a bit of an old thread... How did you end up with this @Cheyne78?
I have a Projecta charger that I did the same with in that I simply bypassed the Jayco setec... Unfortunately it has now died (under warranty so will be repaired/replaced) and as such, am looking at possibly changing to the redarc battery system. What are people's thoughts? Pros cons etc?

BJ.

 

[Cheyne78]

Hi @Bmhdg76 , I haven't done it yet but have just had an anderson plug wired in for the 2nd solar panel input to the factory reg. Once the $$$ is available I'm still planning on changing to the Redarc but now certain that it seems as simple as unplugging the Setec and plugging the Redarc in. Let me know how it goes if you decide to do it.