Solution For Powering An ARB Fridge While Dry Camping

Updated 10/21/2019 | Published 10/19/2019

Question:

My current primitive arrangement causes alternator/regulator failure. I assume it is overheating when seeing two discharged Interstate SRM29 batteries after 5 days of dry camping. I am also using the two parallel batteries for cranking. I know thats not proper use of them and should swap one for dedicated cranking. I need the current storage capacity to run the ARB fridge/freezer located in the tow vehicle for 5 days minimum. I could place one storage battery on the trailer tongue and feed it back to the car. Please help me set this up properly. Heres my specs: - 140 amp alternator: TuffStuff 7069ABull6G https://www.tuffstuffperformance.com/i-24486276-silver-bullet-alternator-140-amp-smooth-back-1-wire-6-grove-bullet-pulley-chrome-7069abull6g.html?ref=search:https3A2F2Fwww.tuffstuffperformance.com2Fsearch.html3Fq3D7069ABull6G26go3DGo - batteries: Interstate SRM29 Reserve Capacity = 210 minutes @ 25A 80°F. x two I calculate 52.5 Ahr. each @ 50 discharge - refrigerator: ARB fridge/freezer https://www.amazon.com/ARB-Portable-Freezer-Electric-Powered/dp/B002Q1INDM Thanks,

asked by: David G

Helpful Expert Reply:

I recommend the Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger # 331-BCDC1250D, the main reason for this is controlled current draw. By using a BCDC, this charge current will be regulated to a specific amount. The current draw from the starting battery would be limited to 55-58amps.

The BCDC should be mounted no further than 5 feet from the batteries it is charging. This ensure the output voltage is not effected by voltage drop.

Some other steps to consider include changing your battery setup to have only one cranking battery and one auxilliary battery with the BCDC in between. The BCDC will charge the auxilliary battery and not allow the auxilliary battery to drain the starting/cranking battery because it's acting as a battery isolator.

To really provide power for 5 days and more of dry camping, a 100 watt solar panel to keep the battery charged or start and run your vehicle for a time every day until the BCDC charges the auxilliary battery would be a good practice.

Finally another auxilliary battery or going with more solar panels maybe in order to cover the power draw of that refrigerator.

Included is a video resource with more information.

expert reply by: Patrick R