This is a concise but comprehensive installation video. The install was similar on my Sprinter. You should add a warning about how to use it such that it doesn't damage the alternator. Specifically, it should only be used when the engine is running (preferably not idling) and not under heavy load (ie. climbing mountains in 95F temperatures). I plug mine in ad hoc, most of the time its disconnected. You could also add that it works with many power stations, not just Bluetti. Some Ecoflow models are capable of drawing high wattages and must be dialed down. The factory recommended limit on my vehicle is 80A so the Delta must be restricted to 900W. But that's fast enough!
Thank you for the added information. I really appreciate this comment and the kindness in which you gave it. I do the same with mine...charge while I'm moving. 🙂
Wow, a TH-camr that offers useful content! This was a clear and concise “how to” that takes the intimidation out of setting up a small inverter that allows the Bluetti to charge while driving. It’s a practical affordable solution.
Hi Jonnie it’s always good to have options thanks for sharing also I’d like to point out unfortunately on Promaster’s under the rubber mat between the seats there’s several wires which constantly get stepped on I simply put a small scrap piece of plywood and a small 2x4 to elevate it above the wires to protect the wires from future damage,electrical problems and possible fire have a great weekend y’all 🥰🤗❤️
Very nice. You explain things very well. I haven’t tried doing any of this stuff, but I certainly feel like with your directions I could. This is a good one!
Several scary problems here. No fuse on positive lead? Or if you are on the protected side of the fuse shown, it's now overloaded. Also, cutting that panel will let more lead-acid fumes into the cabin. At least add some weatherstripping around the wires?
Very good point about cutting the cover didn't even think of that. I will add that. The max output she will pull is 450w equivalent to many DC/DC chargers. I was just using the protected fuse. Thank you for this comment I always learn myself while posting these videos.
@Jonnie's Journey No matter what the inverter will pull, the fuse is so the wire cannot start a fire. You added the loom, which was really good, however *all* wires need fuses, no matter how good the insulation. I don't mean to be critical or to pile on - I am just concerned. That said... one last really minor concern, mostly due to my poor memory in such matters (!) is that if the inverter is accidentally left on, it will drain the battery and the van won't start. The low battery shutdown (meant to prevent battery damage) *might* prevent this.(?) It would take a while, especially if not loaded perhaps days. Not sure of a good fix outside of a $$$ relay controlled by the ignition.
Oh no worries I appreciate the comment so that I can learn and improve.. I was hesitant about putting this video up, I have been using the setup for 2 years And when I talked to the mechanic he said it was fine so I finally decided to share. The more I learn the more I can forward on to others.
Thanks for watching, these power banks have a limited input. It will only pull that limit from the battery. (For this setup its under 500w) As far as straining the alternator, I have had no problems using this system for two years. I talked to a bus mechanic and he said that the setup was good (safe). These inverters are designed for this use and will fault for low or over voltage. I hope this answers your questions.
This is a winner....you make it look so easy.....I like to attempt this on my Navion....Mice got into my rig this winter and chewed into my thin thin inverter wires.....any suggestions for quick connectors to splice wires back??? You hired..lol.😁I will do an unveiling of my Ecoflow River Pro next week...live..on my!!!
Hi Jonnie, thanks for another great video! I scrolled through all the comments looking to see if this had already been answered and I didn't see it, my apologies if I missed it. Is this inverter pure or modified sine? Also how long are the cables you used, so they would reach from the positive over to the passenger seat?
What size is the converter and how did you decide what size it should be? Thanks for that video, I have been asking the question if I could do this and you just showed me how.
Originally I was sold on Bluette but I found EcoFlow Pro on eBay for a great price. It is refurbished but it has the full 3 year warranty. I plan on buying the extra batteries as soon as I can afford them. Do you think 1KW will be enough for this system (10kw)? Also if you don't mind, I will be bugging you for future issues as I work through this process. I will be most happy to compensate you for your knowledge.
That’s so easy..thank you for showing the detailed steps. I will have the bluetti AC200Max and am told it can’t charge with the car charger cable into the 12v cigarette lighter. Bummer. This is a great solution. So what do you do then? Just plug it into the inverter with the AC plug? I saw a video earlier where they hardwired to the battery like you did, but I believe the connection is 12v somehow. They also have a fuse after the car battery… and a switch to shut it off or switch to solar panels. It’s “permanent” and hardwired, with no inverter. I like your solution better tbh as it has the plugs on the inverter as well, if Bluetti isn’t plugged in?
Hi Tanya thanks for watching. Unfortunately the EcoFlow Delta Pro is too big for this setup. 😪 but.... you have the EV option which is very fast charging
Thank you sooo much for this and for all of the responses in the comments. I have been desperately trying to figure out how to do this with my AC300-B300 and my '96 E350 Ambo. I see you mentioned in another comment the AC300 needs a 1500W inverter, correct? One of my house batteries sits in a compartment directly below where the AC300 set up is. Hoping I can figure out how to do this with my setup asap. Supposed to have been on the road weeks ago. Thank You! - Michelle
Michelle, i am going to be shooting a part 2 to this video going over some of the questions. This system is not going to work for any bank with a super charge. I feel it will drain the house battery faster than you can charge it while driving. I would set up a EV charge adapter so you can use the car charging stations.
@@JonniesJourney Oh, okay. :( I don't think I'll be in areas with EV car charging stations, but I better do that as a backup. I want to be completely off-grid in remote areas. But, I am adding standard solar panels to the roof today, if I can get them up there, and I have 2 of Bluetti's 350W portable ones. Hopefully this will handle it. I don't know. Thank you so very much for your reply and advice.
The AC300 is a beast. I would be ecstatic to own one. Not sure what all components you have but sounds like you have the power and solar to handle it. Do you know how many amp hour that battery is?
I have a Bluetti 200P and I prefer to recharge my battery with my Honda eu2200i. Mainly because I dislike solar panels and I hate sitting in direct sun and heat all day.
Jonnie, so I can use this exact setup for my Bluetti 2000wh AC200p and it will charge it up just fine? How long will it take to charge, let's say from 50%? I've charged my small 300 portable and plugged the inverter into my cigarette lighter.
Back again with another question, because yours is the only video on TH-cam that really shows how to do this on a ProMaster. My question is, will this work for a bluetti AC300, say, with a 1000 w inverter?
How did you connect it to the bluetti? AC300 or 200. Have you used their cable for the AC300 that goes to the car cigarette port? How long does it take to charge with the inverter (1h for 25%…for example…) thank you for the vid!
The inverter has 2 outlets outlets just plug the bluetti into it. I just run an extension cord from the back of the Van where the bluetti is up to the front. It charges between 400 and 500 W an hour. If you have the bluetti AC 300 then get a 1500 W inverter instead of a 1000 W
Just re-read you have AC300 in your comment. This setup will not work with any battery ban that has the super charge feature. I feel it will drain the house battery faster than it can be charged
@@JonniesJourney Man I wish Bluetti had ANY customer service. I don’t even know what battery ban/or the super charge feature is. I would like to set up my system to charge while driving other than using the cigarette port. Yeah I have the AC300, 420w (RICH PV) on top, the portable Bluetti 350w pv’s with 2/252ah batteries (500ah). So far it works great with the added boost of the portable panels. I sure would like to know more of what my system is capable…
Great install, Jonnie! Excuse my ignorance, but, what was that big orange thingy you connected the inverter wire to? Was that going to the alternator? I’m like you when it comes to running wires…I can’t stand “wild wires” everywhere! I love to watch DIY videos! Stay safe out there! ~Jim~
@@JonniesJourneywell I knew the battery was under the floor board, but, i thought you connected the opposite end of that cable [‘from’ the orange thingy] to the ‘battery’ that was closest to the passenger door. Idk. Btw, what’s your schedule looking like right now? I sure am wanting to get, like, a 400 watt regular solar panel mounted on the fiberglass roof. I sent my new RV mobile tech guy a text today about ripping bout the carpet and laying down those floor planks (I ‘think’ that’s what they’re called)….unless you wanna make even MORE money and do that as well if you can fit me in. Let me know!
Nice install only would have added 50 amp fuse going to the battery for safety also would have luked to inverter size and finished amount of wattage going to power station
Interesting I didn’t know about this. I’ll have to come back in a few weeks/months when I finish our van to figure this out. My mind can’t handle this right now. 😀 ~A
@@JonniesJourney we have a dc-dc and d+ line now. I’m going to look into this later. If we upgrade to a high roof later on, not sure I’d do the battery’s again.
Hi, Jonnie. I love how nicely you dressed out your cabling. I am having a problem understanding why you didn't run your 12VDC through an isolator to the Bluetti. I thought the Bluetti could be charged directly from a 12VDC source. That way only the excess current would feed the Bluetti (only after your start battery is topped off). Not sure why you would use an inverter to step it up to 110AC then have the Bluetti step it back down to 12VDC -- seems fairly inefficient. Plus...if you forget to turn off the inverter when you stop driving, won't it drain your start battery? I'm assuming that it's your start battery that you're connecting to (or is that the house battery?). Just sane... :^) Saint
Thanks Saint. The Bluetti can take in AC and DC simultaneously, but only has one input for each. These banks also have a max AC input and DC input. For instance her AC200 can take 700w solar in and 500 ac in simultaneously but can not take 1200w if just DC. The other thing is that the DC input is a 2 pin aviator plug which prevents the use of anything bigger than 12 awg. These inverters have a low voltage sensor that alarms for low voltage so hopefully that would help prevent draining battery to much. 👍 always appreciate your comments and knowledge
@@JonniesJourney Ah...that makes sense. Got it. The good news is, if you drain your start battery, you're just draining it into another battery. If it comes down to it, you can always put some of it back. eh. You're pretty sharp -- for a girl. (Ha! My 5 daughters hate it when I say that. He he he...) Peace, love and doves (the whole bit) Saint
If I have this right you are using the ac cord to plug into the step up converter. The Bluette should limit the amount of current it will accept, which is why you can plug it into a wall outlet. Not all 110v outlets are 15 amps, some are 20 amps. This is what I think I learned from the EcoFlow tech and the manual. So basically, your house battery is fused twice.
with the normal ac200 max u only get 100watts or so through the dc to dc cig lighter plug you can get 460 to 500watts using the inverter using ac 110 huge diff in charge time ! while driving !
Well, wait just a minute now....I never knew there was a cool hidden compartment there in the vans! Say what?! You'll have to pardon me. I get little-kid-giddy over secret compartments. Also, I've never seen a battery like this. The times they are a-changin'. Or they changed a long time ago while I had my head in the sand, and I'm just noticing. I'm embarrassed to ask, but I'm gonna do it anyway. At 2:44, regarding the red wire to the left of the red wire you're installing: is that wire connected to the alternator? So I guess there are multiple positive terminals for projects like this? Are they where you'd attach a trickle charger? Will wonders never cease. The most modern engines I've had my hands in are a minivan and an SUV from 2005, and that's just for routine maintenance. Barely. The only times I ever got real with an engine was in the 70s with my dad, and in the 80s, in my 1970 F-100 barebones pickup. Loved that thing. Great video!
Oh, and one more question (ok, a thousand more, but I'm reining it in). Will this connection to the inverter create a "ghost" power drain when the engine is off? If it sounds like I don't know what I'm talking about, it's cuz I don't.
It hasn't on mine. the inverter has an on off switch that shuts the power off coming in. works kind of like an isolater switch if you ask me...but i'm learning too.
I believe there has to be a load on the battery to drain it, so as long as you turn off the converter or unplug the house battery it should not be any more of an issue than the normal drainage.
Hi, I’m new to your channel. Thank you for this video as I was thinking of ways to charge my Bluetti when it comes. Just a few questions as I’m not an electrician. Do you not need to fuse between the battery and inverter? Do you need to unplug the Bluetti from the inverter when the van isn’t running? Thanks in advance 👌
The inverter I use has a fuse built in. If yours doesn't then fuse it. You do not have to unplug it but make sure the inverter is off when not driving. Thanks for watching and supporting the channel. 👍
This is very helpful...however...I am building out a E250 with an AC300 and 2 B300's. The chassis battery is under the hood rather than under the seat. Should I run a short thick cable to the inverter (mounted under the hood somewhere) and then an extension cord to the Bluetti near the back of the van. Or run a longer cable from the battery to the inverter, inside the van, and plug the Bluetti directly into the inverter. There isn't much room under the hood and frankly I'm not sure I can mount it there, but I know I need to hold the distance between the battery and the inverter to a minimum. Thank you very much.
I would definitely choose option 2 and fuse it too. Also, your AC300 had a 1.7k draw I would put it on the quiet mode so it drops it down to 1100 so the pull is not so hard.
@@JonniesJourney Thankyou so much. I have ask this question of at least 5 other van build experts and you are the first to give me a straight answer. I can't tell you how happy that makes me. Not sure what quiet mode is but I'll look it up. Thanks again and love your videos.
@timothyjohnston9069 if you do not have quiet mode on your model the you can also turn the input amperage down manually. It is preset at 15A or 20A depending on when you purchased it. Turn it down around 12A. You will need to email Bluetti for the code. Happy to respond and help anyway I can
No dumb questions here. Cig lighter adapter gives a little over 100w/hr. The inverter gives the Bluetti maximum charge capacity which in over 400w/hr 👍
@@JonniesJourney I see. Thanks very much. Setting up expedite van (which also is promaster 3500) and ordered this power unit on your recommendation. Thank you!
Hi jonnie! Did this and it worked util it cooked my 90 amp alternator 😢 but it was an old 2005 sprinter which i then replaced a 200 amp alternator. But still nervous of using it. Iv been reading a lot and the consensus is dc to is the way to go. But mine is all setup already and dont want to spend money on it anymore. Are you still using this setup and how is it going so far after a few years?
@@JonniesJourney thats good to know. Im still nervous after just recently cooking my original alternator. So you just turn the inverter on while the van is moving?
This is a concise but comprehensive installation video. The install was similar on my Sprinter.
You should add a warning about how to use it such that it doesn't damage the alternator. Specifically, it should only be used when the engine is running (preferably not idling) and not under heavy load (ie. climbing mountains in 95F temperatures). I plug mine in ad hoc, most of the time its disconnected.
You could also add that it works with many power stations, not just Bluetti. Some Ecoflow models are capable of drawing high wattages and must be dialed down. The factory recommended limit on my vehicle is 80A so the Delta must be restricted to 900W. But that's fast enough!
Thank you for the added information. I really appreciate this comment and the kindness in which you gave it. I do the same with mine...charge while I'm moving. 🙂
This setup actually cooked my old 90 amp alternator. I did replace it with with a 200 amp but still nervous of using it.
Wow, a TH-camr that offers useful content! This was a clear and concise “how to” that takes the intimidation out of setting up a small inverter that allows the Bluetti to charge while driving. It’s a practical affordable solution.
You make it look easy. It helps that the batteries are easily accessible.
Amen it does and the transit is even easier to get to. 👍
Great how to video 📹 . Clear and concise directions. Kudos, Jonnie!!!
Wow! Pretty cool 👍🏻. I wish my battery was as assessable as Patty’s was. Another great tip! Love it.
Thanks Crystal
Now I know how it's done. Thanks so much Jonnie.
Taupey 🐈⬛
Thanks Tracy ❤️
Wow Jonnie! You never cease to amaze me with your van building skills!
Thank you Tommy ❤️
Easy peasy!!!!😎👍 Jonnie makes it as simple as it can be.😍
Thanks Tim. ❤️
Another great video Jonnie!
Thank you
Cheers Jonnie 👍 Love these practical build vids 🛠 You’re so Inspiring 💋✨ 🚐 ☀️
Thank you so much Jen.
Hi Jonnie it’s always good to have options thanks for sharing also I’d like to point out unfortunately on Promaster’s under the rubber mat between the seats there’s several wires which constantly get stepped on I simply put a small scrap piece of plywood and a small 2x4 to elevate it above the wires to protect the wires from future damage,electrical problems and possible fire have a great weekend y’all 🥰🤗❤️
I didn't know that... ugh. Will check it out. Have a great weekend my friend. Mail came today 👍
Very nice. You explain things very well. I haven’t tried doing any of this stuff, but I certainly feel like with your directions I could. This is a good one!
Thanks Felix 🙂
Easiest and best explained installation I’ve seen thus far.
Thank you so much. Works fantastic.
That is so clever! Awesome that you can do this 👍👍👍👍👍 and even more awesome that you share it with others ❤❤❤❤❤
Thank you so much friend. I do hope it helps others ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I love always learning something new with your videos. You're really great at explaining things. Great job! Thanks for sharing!
Thank you Angela ❤️
You always make everything look so simple! Another great helpful how-to video❣️
Thanks so much Darcy! 😊
One of the best features!
❤️ thank you.
I’ve wanted to do this install as well, so you then plug the Bluetti charger into the inverter?
Yes 👍
Several scary problems here. No fuse on positive lead? Or if you are on the protected side of the fuse shown, it's now overloaded. Also, cutting that panel will let more lead-acid fumes into the cabin. At least add some weatherstripping around the wires?
Very good point about cutting the cover didn't even think of that. I will add that. The max output she will pull is 450w equivalent to many DC/DC chargers. I was just using the protected fuse. Thank you for this comment I always learn myself while posting these videos.
@Jonnie's Journey No matter what the inverter will pull, the fuse is so the wire cannot start a fire. You added the loom, which was really good, however *all* wires need fuses, no matter how good the insulation.
I don't mean to be critical or to pile on - I am just concerned. That said... one last really minor concern, mostly due to my poor memory in such matters (!) is that if the inverter is accidentally left on, it will drain the battery and the van won't start. The low battery shutdown (meant to prevent battery damage) *might* prevent this.(?) It would take a while, especially if not loaded perhaps days. Not sure of a good fix outside of a $$$ relay controlled by the ignition.
Oh no worries I appreciate the comment so that I can learn and improve.. I was hesitant about putting this video up, I have been using the setup for 2 years And when I talked to the mechanic he said it was fine so I finally decided to share. The more I learn the more I can forward on to others.
Good information ,
Thanks Ann ❤️. I may or may not have a biscuit joiner in my possession. Will have to see 🙂
How are you regulating how much power is going to the inverter? Can it be a strain on your alternator?
Thanks for watching, these power banks have a limited input. It will only pull that limit from the battery. (For this setup its under 500w) As far as straining the alternator, I have had no problems using this system for two years. I talked to a bus mechanic and he said that the setup was good (safe). These inverters are designed for this use and will fault for low or over voltage. I hope this answers your questions.
@@JonniesJourney
Thanks Jonnie! 🖖😜
This is a winner....you make it look so easy.....I like to attempt this on my Navion....Mice got into my rig this winter and chewed into my thin thin inverter wires.....any suggestions for quick connectors to splice wires back??? You hired..lol.😁I will do an unveiling of my Ecoflow River Pro next week...live..on my!!!
What gauge wires do you have
What is the advantage of doing all of this? I just plug mine into my 12volt receptacle.
The 12v has very limited output. A little over 100w/hr. Using the inverter will get you over 400w/hr
@ArtScape Adventures By Lisa Lisa Awesome glad this helps
@@JonniesJourney great answer:)
Hi Jonnie, thanks for another great video! I scrolled through all the comments looking to see if this had already been answered and I didn't see it, my apologies if I missed it. Is this inverter pure or modified sine? Also how long are the cables you used, so they would reach from the positive over to the passenger seat?
Pure sine wave and I use 3ft on Promaster 👍 make sure you size your cables to your inverter 👍
Super! We want this in our van too. 👍🧚♀️
Absolutely
What size is the converter and how did you decide what size it should be? Thanks for that video, I have been asking the question if I could do this and you just showed me how.
This is a 1000 W inverter. Only powerbanks with the super charge would need more than this.
Originally I was sold on Bluette but I found EcoFlow Pro on eBay for a great price. It is refurbished but it has the full 3 year warranty. I plan on buying the extra batteries as soon as I can afford them. Do you think 1KW will be enough for this system (10kw)?
Also if you don't mind, I will be bugging you for future issues as I work through this process. I will be most happy to compensate you for your knowledge.
That’s so easy..thank you for showing the detailed steps. I will have the bluetti AC200Max and am told it can’t charge with the car charger cable into the 12v cigarette lighter. Bummer. This is a great solution. So what do you do then? Just plug it into the inverter with the AC plug? I saw a video earlier where they hardwired to the battery like you did, but I believe the connection is 12v somehow. They also have a fuse after the car battery… and a switch to shut it off or switch to solar panels. It’s “permanent” and hardwired, with no inverter. I like your solution better tbh as it has the plugs on the inverter as well, if Bluetti isn’t plugged in?
Very Nike video ❤️❤️👍
Great video as always. Would this work for Ecoflow delta pro? Hi from the UK 👋
Hi Tanya thanks for watching. Unfortunately the EcoFlow Delta Pro is too big for this setup. 😪 but.... you have the EV option which is very fast charging
Awesome 👍
Thank you Mary❤️
Thank you sooo much for this and for all of the responses in the comments. I have been desperately trying to figure out how to do this with my AC300-B300 and my '96 E350 Ambo. I see you mentioned in another comment the AC300 needs a 1500W inverter, correct? One of my house batteries sits in a compartment directly below where the AC300 set up is. Hoping I can figure out how to do this with my setup asap. Supposed to have been on the road weeks ago. Thank You! - Michelle
Michelle, i am going to be shooting a part 2 to this video going over some of the questions. This system is not going to work for any bank with a super charge. I feel it will drain the house battery faster than you can charge it while driving. I would set up a EV charge adapter so you can use the car charging stations.
@@JonniesJourney Oh, okay. :( I don't think I'll be in areas with EV car charging stations, but I better do that as a backup. I want to be completely off-grid in remote areas. But, I am adding standard solar panels to the roof today, if I can get them up there, and I have 2 of Bluetti's 350W portable ones. Hopefully this will handle it. I don't know. Thank you so very much for your reply and advice.
@@lifewithllewellins absolutely, you will love the PV350's they are awesome.
@@JonniesJourney I've been thinking I should have gotten the AC 200 Max instead.
The AC300 is a beast. I would be ecstatic to own one. Not sure what all components you have but sounds like you have the power and solar to handle it. Do you know how many amp hour that battery is?
I have a Bluetti 200P and I prefer to recharge my battery with my Honda eu2200i. Mainly because I dislike solar panels and I hate sitting in direct sun and heat all day.
Absolutely understand that
Very cool 😎👌👍
Thank you Hilde. 🙂
Jonnie, so I can use this exact setup for my Bluetti 2000wh AC200p and it will charge it up just fine? How long will it take to charge, let's say from 50%? I've charged my small 300 portable and plugged the inverter into my cigarette lighter.
Yes you can. The AC 200P will charge about 450 watts an hour so it'll take about 2 hours to charge your bank if at 50%
Back again with another question, because yours is the only video on TH-cam that really shows how to do this on a ProMaster. My question is, will this work for a bluetti AC300, say, with a 1000 w inverter?
No, you have to go bigger because of the draw or decrease the input amperage. 👍
@@JonniesJourney thanks for such a quick response. What do you mean go bigger, bigger inverter?
@D May yes. Also sent you an email
@@JonniesJourney thanks! I responded via email
I can't find the information on the particular inverter you used? Great video. Would you mind providing?
I use the Jupiter inverter from Harbor Freight.
How did you connect it to the bluetti? AC300 or 200. Have you used their cable for the AC300 that goes to the car cigarette port? How long does it take to charge with the inverter (1h for 25%…for example…) thank you for the vid!
The inverter has 2 outlets outlets just plug the bluetti into it. I just run an extension cord from the back of the Van where the bluetti is up to the front. It charges between 400 and 500 W an hour. If you have the bluetti AC 300 then get a 1500 W inverter instead of a 1000 W
@@JonniesJourney got it! Thank you!
Just re-read you have AC300 in your comment. This setup will not work with any battery ban that has the super charge feature. I feel it will drain the house battery faster than it can be charged
@@JonniesJourney Man I wish Bluetti had ANY customer service. I don’t even know what battery ban/or the super charge feature is. I would like to set up my system to charge while driving other than using the cigarette port. Yeah I have the AC300, 420w (RICH PV) on top, the portable Bluetti 350w pv’s with 2/252ah batteries (500ah). So far it works great with the added boost of the portable panels. I sure would like to know more of what my system is capable…
@@MannyWC email me, i can try to help. Midwestvanbuilders@gmail.com
Great install, Jonnie! Excuse my ignorance, but, what was that big orange thingy you connected the inverter wire to? Was that going to the alternator? I’m like you when it comes to running wires…I can’t stand “wild wires” everywhere! I love to watch DIY videos! Stay safe out there! ~Jim~
That's where the battery is on the Promaster. In the front floor board 🤷♀️ craziness 🤣.
@@JonniesJourneywell I knew the battery was under the floor board, but, i thought you connected the opposite end of that cable [‘from’ the orange thingy] to the ‘battery’ that was closest to the passenger door. Idk. Btw, what’s your schedule looking like right now? I sure am wanting to get, like, a 400 watt regular solar panel mounted on the fiberglass roof. I sent my new RV mobile tech guy a text today about ripping bout the carpet and laying down those floor planks (I ‘think’ that’s what they’re called)….unless you wanna make even MORE money and do that as well if you can fit me in. Let me know!
Nice install only would have added 50 amp fuse going to the battery for safety also would have luked to inverter size and finished amount of wattage going to power station
Awesome. My Battery doesn't have the extra post. Is this something I can easily add!I have a 2014 ProMaster. Thanks
Just add it to the existing one 👍 hope this helps. It has been a game changer for me and others I have used it for.
Make sure your existing post is fuse protected.
@@JonniesJourney How do I check to ensure it has a fuse?
Email me at midwestvanbuilders@gmail.com 👍
Interesting I didn’t know about this. I’ll have to come back in a few weeks/months when I finish our van to figure this out. My mind can’t handle this right now. 😀 ~A
For yours, you will just want a DC/DC charger 👍
@@JonniesJourney we have a dc-dc and d+ line now. I’m going to look into this later. If we upgrade to a high roof later on, not sure I’d do the battery’s again.
@@AnnettesVanTease oh gotcha
So would you then use the AC charging box that came with the bluetti to plug in while driving?
Yes, I just run an extension cord from my AC200 to the inverter
Hi, Jonnie. I love how nicely you dressed out your cabling. I am having a problem understanding why you didn't run your 12VDC through an isolator to the Bluetti. I thought the Bluetti could be charged directly from a 12VDC source. That way only the excess current would feed the Bluetti (only after your start battery is topped off). Not sure why you would use an inverter to step it up to 110AC then have the Bluetti step it back down to 12VDC -- seems fairly inefficient. Plus...if you forget to turn off the inverter when you stop driving, won't it drain your start battery? I'm assuming that it's your start battery that you're connecting to (or is that the house battery?).
Just sane... :^) Saint
Thanks Saint. The Bluetti can take in AC and DC simultaneously, but only has one input for each. These banks also have a max AC input and DC input. For instance her AC200 can take 700w solar in and 500 ac in simultaneously but can not take 1200w if just DC. The other thing is that the DC input is a 2 pin aviator plug which prevents the use of anything bigger than 12 awg. These inverters have a low voltage sensor that alarms for low voltage so hopefully that would help prevent draining battery to much. 👍 always appreciate your comments and knowledge
@@JonniesJourney Ah...that makes sense. Got it. The good news is, if you drain your start battery, you're just draining it into another battery. If it comes down to it, you can always put some of it back. eh.
You're pretty sharp -- for a girl. (Ha! My 5 daughters hate it when I say that. He he he...)
Peace, love and doves (the whole bit) Saint
If I have this right you are using the ac cord to plug into the step up converter. The Bluette should limit the amount of current it will accept, which is why you can plug it into a wall outlet. Not all 110v outlets are 15 amps, some are 20 amps. This is what I think I learned from the EcoFlow tech and the manual. So basically, your house battery is fused twice.
with the normal ac200 max u only get 100watts or so through the dc to dc cig lighter plug you can get 460 to 500watts using the inverter using ac 110 huge diff in charge time ! while driving !
You rock...
Well you rock for letting me know you think so. ❤️
Nice work Jonnie
Thanks Ray 💙
👍
🙂
Well, wait just a minute now....I never knew there was a cool hidden compartment there in the vans! Say what?! You'll have to pardon me. I get little-kid-giddy over secret compartments. Also, I've never seen a battery like this. The times they are a-changin'. Or they changed a long time ago while I had my head in the sand, and I'm just noticing. I'm embarrassed to ask, but I'm gonna do it anyway. At 2:44, regarding the red wire to the left of the red wire you're installing: is that wire connected to the alternator? So I guess there are multiple positive terminals for projects like this? Are they where you'd attach a trickle charger? Will wonders never cease. The most modern engines I've had my hands in are a minivan and an SUV from 2005, and that's just for routine maintenance. Barely. The only times I ever got real with an engine was in the 70s with my dad, and in the 80s, in my 1970 F-100 barebones pickup. Loved that thing. Great video!
Oh, and one more question (ok, a thousand more, but I'm reining it in). Will this connection to the inverter create a "ghost" power drain when the engine is off? If it sounds like I don't know what I'm talking about, it's cuz I don't.
It hasn't on mine. the inverter has an on off switch that shuts the power off coming in. works kind of like an isolater switch if you ask me...but i'm learning too.
I have been trying to figure that out as well. Can't find the answer either. May have to go to my dealer to find the answer LOL
I believe there has to be a load on the battery to drain it, so as long as you turn off the converter or unplug the house battery it should not be any more of an issue than the normal drainage.
Hi, I’m new to your channel. Thank you for this video as I was thinking of ways to charge my Bluetti when it comes.
Just a few questions as I’m not an electrician.
Do you not need to fuse between the battery and inverter?
Do you need to unplug the Bluetti from the inverter when the van isn’t running?
Thanks in advance 👌
The inverter I use has a fuse built in. If yours doesn't then fuse it. You do not have to unplug it but make sure the inverter is off when not driving. Thanks for watching and supporting the channel. 👍
@@JonniesJourney brilliant, I’m all new to the electrical installation so I appreciate your reply. Keep up the great work 👌
One reason why I don't like the Bluetti's is that they charge slow using the AC wall charger.
The AC300 has fixed that problem ❤️ Super charge is becoming a common feature on many of the new power banks. 👍
This is very helpful...however...I am building out a E250 with an AC300 and 2 B300's. The chassis battery is under the hood rather than under the seat. Should I run a short thick cable to the inverter (mounted under the hood somewhere) and then an extension cord to the Bluetti near the back of the van. Or run a longer cable from the battery to the inverter, inside the van, and plug the Bluetti directly into the inverter. There isn't much room under the hood and frankly I'm not sure I can mount it there, but I know I need to hold the distance between the battery and the inverter to a minimum. Thank you very much.
I would definitely choose option 2 and fuse it too.
Also, your AC300 had a 1.7k draw I would put it on the quiet mode so it drops it down to 1100 so the pull is not so hard.
@@JonniesJourney Thankyou so much. I have ask this question of at least 5 other van build experts and you are the first to give me a straight answer. I can't tell you how happy that makes me. Not sure what quiet mode is but I'll look it up. Thanks again and love your videos.
@timothyjohnston9069 if you do not have quiet mode on your model the you can also turn the input amperage down manually. It is preset at 15A or 20A depending on when you purchased it. Turn it down around 12A. You will need to email Bluetti for the code. Happy to respond and help anyway I can
I feel like this is a dumb question but couldn’t the same be accomplished using the 12v cigarette socket, or does this offer more power faster?
No dumb questions here. Cig lighter adapter gives a little over 100w/hr. The inverter gives the Bluetti maximum charge capacity which in over 400w/hr 👍
@@JonniesJourney I see. Thanks very much. Setting up expedite van (which also is promaster 3500) and ordered this power unit on your recommendation. Thank you!
@@JonniesJourney REALLY appreciate your knowledge and content.
@@slindsay4784 thank you so much
Hi jonnie! Did this and it worked util it cooked my 90 amp alternator 😢 but it was an old 2005 sprinter which i then replaced a 200 amp alternator. But still nervous of using it. Iv been reading a lot and the consensus is dc to is the way to go. But mine is all setup already and dont want to spend money on it anymore. Are you still using this setup and how is it going so far after a few years?
I have over 13 vans on the road doing it this way. Most people that I have seen doing the DC to DC setup are going to the battery not the alternator.
@@JonniesJourney thats good to know. Im still nervous after just recently cooking my original alternator. So you just turn the inverter on while the van is moving?
good idea, but until the solar station companies figure this out (quick charging using alternator) I will not be purchasing a solar generator.
completely understand.
How many watts inverter?
This one is a 1000w inverter
@@JonniesJourney Thank you
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Thank you Dottie
I need ur help with my solar situation that I'm having problems with. I will email or contact u through ur other social medias..
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