Can a Victron Orion XS DC-to-DC Charger Replace an RV Battery Isolator for Lithium Batteries?

Published 10/06/2026

Question:

I plan on replacing my AGM Batteries with Lithium minimum of 450Ah. I have located the battery isolator under the coach. the plan is to put the new batteries in the same battery tray with slight modifications, i would like to replace the Isolator with this DC to DC charger. It will be exposed is shielding the controller enough to insure it will operate properly? I looks like all the necessary wiring is in place.

asked by: Ron

Expert Reply:

Hi there Ron,

Yes, the Victron Orion XS # VN96RR can replace the battery isolator and regulate alternator power going to your new lithium battery bank. This is a very smart device and will be a really good upgrade that actually charges (with customizable profiles) instead of just passing voltage through it like the isolator was doing.

Since it is IP65 rated, the electronics are protected from dust and incidental water spray, but I would still shield it from direct road spray and debris while leaving room around it for cooling.

Your existing isolator wiring may be reusable, but you’ll want to verify the wire gauge and fuse protection are appropriate for the charger’s 50-amp output.

Also, this only replaces the isolator/alternator charging function, so your shore-power converter will still need to be lithium compatible.

What kind of RV is this in? Lithium is such a nice upgrade and all the electronics will likely benefit from the swap.

expert reply by: Andrew N