Hi there, Victron Community!
Unsure how to simply and effectively connect 2 alternators to the BMS 12/200.
I don't want to connect my starter batteries in paralell.
I'm currently converting the following 12V Pb system:
- 375Ah semi-tractic 12V battery bank
- two Hitachi 55Amp alternators
- two separate starter batteries
- two battery isolators between alternator and service battery
- 1x Victron Agrofet 100A/2 Output
- 1x Newmar 70Amp/2 Output
to a mainly solar powered LiFePO4 setup with the following specs:
- 2x Smart LiFePO4 330Ah in paralell
- Smart BMS 12/200
- 2x MPPT 100/30 (with 550Wp solar each)
- 1x MPPT 100/20 (with 2x 140 Wp in paralell)
- 2x Hitachi 55 Apm alternators
- 2x lead starter batteries (separated)
- two battery isolators between alternator and service battery
- 1x Victron Agrofet 100A/2 Output
- 1x Newmar 70Amp/2 Output
My question is, can I leave the two battery isolators in place and:
- leave each alternator connected to its starter battery,
- install a 3-way switch just before the BMS alternator port,
- hook up both alternator positive cables (coming from the isolators) to the 3-way switch,
- connect both negative alternator cables (coming from the isolators) to the service battery bank's negative,
- simply select with which alternator I want to charge the service battery each time I run the engine(s) by using the 3-way switch.
Also, the BMS manual says to connect the GND cable to the negative of the service AND the starter battery. In a dual-starter battery situation, what do you suggest?
Curious about your thoughts/advice/experiences. Cheers!
