Can Redarc BCDC Battery Charger Be Installed on 2014 Silverado with Smart Alternator

Updated 04/06/2020 | Published 04/05/2020

Question:

I have a 2014 Silverado that I wish to install this unit in for a dual battery setup. Has this unit been successfully installed in any smart alternator equipped GM vehicles? I am concerned about possibly throwing an error code into the onboard computer system.

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

I reached out to my contact at Redarc, who ensured the # 331-BCDC1225D is indeed compatible with all makes of vehicle including the latest GM models with smart alternators, like your 2014 Silverado. There have been no reports of newer GM vehicles displaying error codes after installing it.

On the newer GM vehicles, they often now feature a current shunt or Hall Effect Sensor on the negative terminal of the main battery to measure various loads and information from the vehicle. Simply follow these recommendations when installing 12 Volt accessory products, like the Redarc BCDC Battery Charger:

- Ensure no negative connections go directly to the main battery negative terminal but rather ensure all negative connections are made to common ground chassis/body ground points.
- Install the blue override wire on the BCDC Charger to your Silverado's ignition to allow the charger to modify its voltage requirements so that it can continue to pull power, even when the alternator voltage drops.

See attached example of typical wiring setup illustration. Also on page 11 of the linked BCDCD Charger installation instructions.

expert reply by: Carla M