Can the Solar Power Kit for TorkLift PowerArmor Be Used Alongside Other Battery Chargers

Updated 07/25/2019 | Published 07/24/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Solar Power Kit for TorkLift PowerArmor Battery Box - 10 Watt Panel

(4)

$233.23

8-Amp Regulator for TorkLift PowerArmor Solar Battery Boxes

(1)

$197.43

Question:

Hello, I have 2- 12V batteries joined in parallel for my travel trailer. I typically keep them charged 1 of 3 ways: 130 Watt solar panel run through zamp system w/ charge controller while boondocking. Direct power from outlet at campsite. Wire harness to tow vehicle while driving. If I connect a 10 watt solar trickle charger with charge controller, mounted to the battery box, will I run the risk of damaging my battery or system if connected to any of the above systems simultaneously? Or do I need to disconnect the trickle charger each time I plug in? Thanks!

asked by: Dan H

Expert Reply:

The risk that you run of charging your batteries with multiple sources at once is overcharging them. This can also be an issue with a single source but not likely with what you mentioned because I would be willing to bet each of these has built-in protection form overcharging save for maybe the 12 volt pin on the 7-way but this most likely won't provide enough amps for this to occur.

In summary, you can us the Solar Power Kit for TorkLift PowerArmor Battery Box part # TLA7713 while also charging your batteries with one of the other methods you use but I do recommend adding the 8-Amp Regulator for TorkLift PowerArmor Solar Battery Boxes part # TLA7715 to prevent any issues with overcharging from this solar panel.

expert reply by: Conner L