{"id":328,"date":"2023-01-18T20:05:00","date_gmt":"2023-01-19T04:05:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/?p=328"},"modified":"2024-01-24T12:21:34","modified_gmt":"2024-01-24T20:21:34","slug":"vanagon-100-amp-hour-under-seat-battery","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/2023\/01\/18\/vanagon-100-amp-hour-under-seat-battery\/","title":{"rendered":"Vanagon 100 Amp Hour Under-seat Battery"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I&#8217;ve found a high quality 100 Amp hour Lithium battery that fits under and behind the drivers seat in a Vanagon Westfalia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">EDIT: 1\/24\/2024, The battery case has changed slightly since I did mine. A friend reports that it still clears the Westie swivel, but with less clearance. I will update this post when we see how the mounting and wiring turns out. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this post I&#8217;ll show you how I made it fit to be used as a house battery in my Vanagon and I&#8217;ll provide links to parts used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I&#8217;ve been loving this setup for almost a year. It&#8217;s an excellent upgrade that doesn&#8217;t use precious cabinet space. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_8814.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-357\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_8814.jpeg 480w, https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_8814-225x300.jpeg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The setup also includes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>750 Watt modified sine wave inverter<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Solar charge regulator for dual batteries<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Charging relay to charge house battery from alternator<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>6 position fuse block for light loads<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Distribution posts located for easy access of jumper cables<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized is-style-default\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"888\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/AO_Lithium-1024x888.jpg\" alt=\"AO Lithium Battery\" class=\"wp-image-342\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/AO_Lithium-1024x888.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/AO_Lithium-300x260.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/AO_Lithium-768x666.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/AO_Lithium.jpg 1156w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">AO_ Lithium 100 Amp Hour Battery (paid link) <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3Xij1Px\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/amzn.to\/3Xij1Px<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br>This battery features: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Safe Lithium Iron Phosphate chemistry<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bluetooth phone app monitoring<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Freezing temperature charge protection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>100 Amp hours of capacity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>12.8 Volts nominal voltage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>100 Amps load\/charge capability<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>300 Amps peak load capability<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rated for 4000 cycles of long life<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Best of all: Short 7.4&#8243; height to fit under a Vanagon drivers seat swivel<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>No cutting of the Vanagon body to fit, it does require drilling out a few rivets to remove the battery cover. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Details:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I enjoy making the best use of the limited space in a Vanagon camper. For years I&#8217;ve been looking for a 100 Amp hour lithium Iron Phosphate battery that could fit in the left battery compartment and still clear the seat swivel mechanism. I finally saw one on Will Prouse&#8217;s YouTube channel that looked like it might fit. It is a little taller than the compartment, and pretty wide so I did have to relocate a few things as shown below. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In order to allow it to fit, I flipped and slightly relocated the factory refrigerator relay providing clearance for the battery. I also used the coil connections from the same relay to drive my larger parallel charging relay. <br><br>I&#8217;ve removed the drivers seat and rotated the seat swivel base 180\u00b0 in order to provide clearance to access the battery compartment in the image below. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_5152.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-346\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_5152.jpeg 480w, https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_5152-225x300.jpeg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Removed the hinged compartment cover by drilling out the rivets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_5148.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-345\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_5148.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_5148-300x225.jpeg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Removed the plastic cover retainer thingamabob.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_5123.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-344\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_5123.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_5123-300x225.jpeg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stacked a couple 5\/16&#8243; and 7\/16&#8243; standard washers on a 25mm long 8mm socket-head cap screw from my local hardware store and tightened with a ball end hex wrench to keep the battery from rattling or bouncing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_5164.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-348\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_5164.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_5164-300x225.jpeg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Clearance to the battery case really is close so the bolt length and washer sizes are critical. It requires a ball end hex to tighten it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_5163.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-347\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_5163.jpeg 480w, https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_5163-225x300.jpeg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I bent the lugs to allow them to clear the battery, exiting to the side to avoiding interference with the metal lip of the battery box. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_5319.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-349\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_5319.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_5319-300x225.jpeg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I selected 6 AWG super flexible cables to match my 750W inverter max load and and Anderson connector as a quick disconnect for the battery. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"371\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_8814-1.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-360\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_8814-1.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_8814-1-300x174.jpeg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I also used dual terminal posts that are positioned to allow for easy connection of jumper cables without moving the drivers seat. I&#8217;d like to make a cover for the positive terminal to protect against inadvertent shorting. Speaking of shorting, in this installation I rely on the BMS (Battery Management Systems) inside the AO Lithium battery to limit short circuit currents on the heavy wiring and jumper terminals upstream of the fuse block. <br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Helpful comments have suggested I add more over-current protection, so I will add a breaker. The breaker also can act as a shut off to prevent parasitic power draw when the Vanagon is in storage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_8809.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-359\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_8809.jpeg 480w, https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_8809-225x300.jpeg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The original carpet doesn&#8217;t quite lay flat. I think some sticky back velcro would work well to hold it in place. I suspect it will need additional adhesive to hold it to the carpet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br>I use a small AC inverter to run a rice cooker and juicer. I found this compact 750 Watt unit that does the job. It&#8217;s mounted high to retain storage space, but not so high that it interferes with the fully reclined seat. I measured the quiescent current draw on this inverter at 10 mA when switched off. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_8807.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-358\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_8807.jpeg 480w, https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_8807-225x300.jpeg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br>The Sunseeker Duo charge controller has been reliable for many years so I also integrated it here. It&#8217;s nice that it charges both house and SLI (Starting Lighting and Ignition) batteries from one solar input, but these days there may be newer options. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The distribution fuse block allows easy access for all my loads including a Engle refrigerator, Diesel heater, electric blanket and USB outlets. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;6a74a2f178487&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a74a2f178487\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"480\" height=\"640\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--pointerdown=\"actions.preloadImage\" data-wp-on--pointerenter=\"actions.preloadImageWithDelay\" data-wp-on--pointerleave=\"actions.cancelPreload\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_8814.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-357\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_8814.jpeg 480w, https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_8814-225x300.jpeg 225w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-bind--aria-label=\"state.thisImage.triggerButtonAriaLabel\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.thisImage.buttonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.thisImage.buttonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The 200 Amp charging relay connects the lithium house battery to the lead acid SLI battery to charge the house battery from the alternator while the engine is running. This is allows for charging faster than solar while driving. DC-DC chargers may be a better\/safer option and I discuss them below. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The relay connects to the house battery under the drivers seat through a parallel pair of #10 AWG wires running under the walk through edge carpet to a 80 Amp fuse on the SLI battery. Due to the VW&#8217;s low charging voltage of 13.8 Volts this does not rapidly charge up the house battery, sometimes it will even slowly discharge a full house battery if I drive with the lights on. I&#8217;ve installed voltage regulator I had on the Vanagon alternator that it puts out 14.5 Volts at the battery. This is better for both batteries. There is a potential risk of overheating the alternator from continuous high current, especially at idle when cooling is low. As of this writing I see 14.5V voltage regulators  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.busdepot.com\/068903803d\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">at Bus Depot.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When using a relay instead of a DC-DC converter, the charge current will be highest when the house (Lithium) battery is empty and the vehicle headlights are off. I recorded currents at various states of charge in my setup with the 14.5 Volt regulator installed. Initially this charges faster than a 25 Amp DC-DC converter would, and puts more load on the alternator, but once the battery is over 25% full the DC-DC system would provide a faster charge.  <br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\" style=\"border-width:1px\"><thead><tr><th>State of Charge %<\/th><th>Amps<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>0<\/td><td>73<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>1<\/td><td>68<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>3<\/td><td>49<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>5<\/td><td>37<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>10<\/td><td>33<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>25<\/td><td>22<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>67<\/td><td>18<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>89<\/td><td>17<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"347\" height=\"218\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/REDARK.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-381\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/REDARK.jpg 347w, https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/REDARK-300x188.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 347px) 100vw, 347px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If faster charging while driving is important and you want to limit the stress on your alternator, a DC to DC charger that boosts the voltage of your vehicle charging system to optimally charge the house battery while limiting the maximum current to avoid overloading the alternator may be worth it. This would be used instead of the above 200 Amp relay. The 25 Amp rated REDARC BCDC1225D above has great reviews and seems to be high quality and costs accordingly.  It has the added benefit of a built in MPPT solar charge controller. This would only charge the house battery from solar, not the vehicle SLI battery like my Morningstar controller does, but it removes the need for the solar charge controller. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;6a74a2f178d74&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a74a2f178d74\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"923\" height=\"675\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--pointerdown=\"actions.preloadImage\" data-wp-on--pointerenter=\"actions.preloadImageWithDelay\" data-wp-on--pointerleave=\"actions.cancelPreload\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Renogy.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-380\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Renogy.jpg 923w, https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Renogy-300x219.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Renogy-768x562.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 923px) 100vw, 923px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-bind--aria-label=\"state.thisImage.triggerButtonAriaLabel\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.thisImage.buttonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.thisImage.buttonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Renogy makes simple DC to DC chargers that are less expensive. This 40 Amp would charge faster, but also may be pushing the limits of the alternator output capacity. Their 20 Amp unit may be safer for the alternator and a reasonably priced alternative albeit without solar input.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For crimping the lugs, I&#8217;ve used an inexpensive hammer crimper in the past with good results, for this project I enjoyed splurging on a hydraulic crimper. Not required, but nice and controlled. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;6a74a2f17917c&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a74a2f17917c\" class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"896\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--pointerdown=\"actions.preloadImage\" data-wp-on--pointerenter=\"actions.preloadImageWithDelay\" data-wp-on--pointerleave=\"actions.cancelPreload\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Crimpers-1024x896.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-365\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Crimpers-1024x896.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Crimpers-300x262.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Crimpers-768x672.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Crimpers.jpg 1095w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-bind--aria-label=\"state.thisImage.triggerButtonAriaLabel\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.thisImage.buttonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.thisImage.buttonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Paid link <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3XHs3pi\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3XHs3pi\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/amzn.to\/3XHs3pi<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Below are a list of (paid) links to the parts and tools that I used in the project. Links open in new tab: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>AO_ Lithium 100 Amp Hour Battery <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3Xij1Px\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/amzn.to\/3Xij1Px<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>INVERTERTEK 750W Power Inverter <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3iHbvPd\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/amzn.to\/3iHbvPd<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>200 Amp Charge Relay <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3IXEoBs\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/amzn.to\/3IXEoBs<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>80 Amp ANL Fuse for SLI Battery Connection <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3wfo8o0\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/amzn.to\/3wfo8o0<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dual Terminal Block Set <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3Whx9r1\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/amzn.to\/3Whx9r1<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Anderson Connector for Battery <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3J0OEsU\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/amzn.to\/3J0OEsU<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This 6-Way RV Fuse Block has a cover, unlike mine <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3ZJVYin\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/amzn.to\/3ZJVYin<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>6 AWG copper welding cable <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3kt1buP\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/amzn.to\/3kt1buP<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>1\/4&#8243; 6 AWG Terminals for Relay <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3GUvO3E\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/amzn.to\/3GUvO3E<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>5\/16&#8243; 6 AWG Terminals for Battery, Terminal Block and <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3CZcaCE\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/amzn.to\/3CZcaCE<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ball Hex Key Wrench Set<a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3QU1sDk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> https:\/\/amzn.to\/3QU1sDk<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hydraulic Crimper <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3XHs3pi\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/amzn.to\/3XHs3pi<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Low cost Hammer Crimper option that also works well <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3GOtA65\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/amzn.to\/3GOtA65<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>14.5 Volt Regulator for Alternator at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.busdepot.com\/068903803\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bus <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.busdepot.com\/068903803d\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Depot<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>REDARC BCDC1225D battery charger option <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3WrwfYZ\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/amzn.to\/3WrwfYZ<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Renogy 40 Amp DC to DC charger, also 20 Amp available <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3iIJVkR\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/amzn.to\/3iIJVkR <\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sticky Back Velcro for the carpet <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3kl1bwJ\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/amzn.to\/3kl1bwJ<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This site contains paid links, by buying through these links I may receive a commission for the sale. This has no effect on the price for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Feel free to leave questions or comments below, I&#8217;m happy to discuss it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br><br><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>I&#8217;ve found a high quality 100 Amp hour Lithium battery that fits under and behind the drivers seat in a Vanagon Westfalia. EDIT: 1\/24\/2024, The battery case has changed slightly since I did mine. A friend reports that it still clears the Westie swivel, but with less clearance. I will update this post when we&hellip;&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/2023\/01\/18\/vanagon-100-amp-hour-under-seat-battery\/\" rel=\"bookmark\">Read More &raquo;<span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Vanagon 100 Amp Hour Under-seat Battery<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":343,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"neve_meta_sidebar":"","neve_meta_container":"","neve_meta_enable_content_width":"","neve_meta_content_width":0,"neve_meta_title_alignment":"","neve_meta_author_avatar":"","neve_post_elements_order":"[\"title\",\"meta\",\"thumbnail\",\"content\",\"tags\",\"comments\"]","neve_meta_disable_header":"","neve_meta_disable_footer":"","neve_meta_disable_title":"","_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[8],"tags":[15,12,19,17,11,21,16,10,20,13,14],"class_list":["post-328","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-vanagon","tag-100-ahr","tag-house-battery","tag-iron-phosphate","tag-life","tag-lithium-battery","tag-swivel-seat","tag-under-seat","tag-vanagon","tag-vw","tag-westfalia","tag-westie"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/IMG_2616.jpeg","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/paSKPd-5i","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/328","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=328"}],"version-history":[{"count":44,"href":"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/328\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":736,"href":"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/328\/revisions\/736"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/343"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=328"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=328"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cafeelectric.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=328"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}