Deuce Electrical System 12V/24V

[cloud9]

Over the past few years I have had to replace the two 12V batteries that are wired in series in my deuce almost once a year (even after pulling them individually and re-charging them). The truck doesn't get used to frequently (cranking to start in cold weather etc), but it does have a pretty hefty stereo system. When I do use the truck it is for events where we drive the truck a short distance then have the stereo going and the truck not running.

The Stereo gear is connected to the first battery only in the series, yielding only 12V. My questions is when that first battery is drained, will the charge coming back from the alternator charge both batteries the same no matter what their independent voltages are? I think that I might be frying the battery that is connected to the stereo system, by the two batteries getting under/over charged.

I have done a little research and found a few 24V to 12V high amp convertors that might work, by attaching it to the second battery in the series, which then would draw evenly from both batteries, discharging them at the same rate. Those are my thoughts; any one with past experience in this area or comments otherwise would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Mike.

 

[ida34]

The alt just charges both batteries until it sees around 25 volts. You end up over charging the battery not being used for your stereo while the other battery never gets charged enough. This may be why your are having your problem. I installed a 24 to 12 volt converter for running stuff. Many here will say they have run a 12 volt tap for years with no problems but the fact you are frying batteries says a lot. Have you checked the alt at a qualified shop? Is your alt running to high a voltage anyway? Check the output at the batteries with a multimeter. Anything over 27 or so volts is over charging. There is an adjustment on the alt to set the charging limit. You might also try disconnecting any 12 volt accessories and see if this helps.

 

[Westech]

also don't forget to trickle charge the batteries when not in use. Get a solargizer charger. I have mine on order. It charges the batts when not in use there only 50 bucks or less.

 

[Boatcarpenter]

ida34,
I believe you will find that the TM says adjust the alt. output to 28volts +/- .2 volts.
BC

 

[bottleworks]

Anything over 27 or so volts is over charging.

I am going to have to disagree on that. A proper 24V charging system should be producing aprox 28 Volts.

cloud9, you have learned a valuable lesson on 24v systems. You can't pull off the lower battery with out a proper setup. You need a battery equalizer or two alternators charging each battery. I suggest a 100 amp battery equalizer.

 

[gimpyrobb]

Headwizard on this site has killer 24-12v converters for the best price you will find.

 

[M725]

-20 said between 28.5v to 29.1v is normal. Anything more or less you have a problem.

 

[cloud9]

Thanks

Great feedback guys, thanks for your comments. I will get the multi-meter out and check the voltage coming from the alternator.

Sounds like the 100 amp battery equalizer is the way to go. Will I run into any problems with the equalizer set-up if the draw on the 12V battery is significant?

Thanks again.

Mike.

 

[bottleworks]

Great feedback guys, thanks for your comments. I will get the multi-meter out and check the voltage coming from the alternator.

Sounds like the 100 amp battery equalizer is the way to go. Will I run into any problems with the equalizer set-up if the draw on the 12V battery is significant?

Just keep is under 100 Amps (or the rating of the unit you buy). You can go above the rating, but the batteries will become unequalized until the demand lowers and the BE can do its equalizing. Attached is a image found on Google of a type III and II. I have the one on the right. There is no significant advantage between the older version and the newer. The older one is just a little thicker. Look for them in junked transit buses in Junkyards....Typically in the battery compartment.

 

[bottleworks]

Oh and be sure to check for any A/C voltage output from the alternator. Excessive A/C voltage can also damage the batteries. You don't want more then aprox 300 mV of A/C. Check it at the alternator post. If you check at the battery end, the batteries tend to mask it.

 

[quarkz]

Mike,
Not to go off topic,
but.......
Welcome to the sight and could you post some pix of you paint job?
I am partial to the winter camo scheme and you avitar looks to have a non-mil paint job.
Thanx
Tony

 

[cloud9]

Tony,

Thanks for the welcome, I have been using the site for the last year for a multitude of topics. I have re-built the master cylinder on the brakes, replaced tires, etc etc with the help of the forum. I will get some shots of the paint job as soon as it stops snowing here in Utah.

Have a good one.

Mike.

 

[AN/ARC186]

Why not just go with a separate 12v alternator and battery set? I posted pics here a while back on the setup I installed and it works great!