Charging lithium batteries

[Cgriffiths]

I’m changing from lead acid to 2 lithium lifepo4 100 Ah batteries . Question does engine alternator charge house batteries while driving. I’ve read posts about burning up engine alternator because of high current draw to charge lithium batteries . Has anyone run into this problem or have diagrams on how to disconnect . I have 440W of solar that will charge if needed while driving.
Thanks

 

[bikendan]

I’m changing from lead acid to 2 lithium lifepo4 100 Ah batteries . Question does engine alternator charge house batteries while driving. I’ve read posts about burning up engine alternator because of high current draw to charge lithium batteries . Has anyone run into this problem or have diagrams on how to disconnect . I have 440W of solar that will charge if needed while driving.
Thanks

Year, make and model number of your RV is always helpful since you don't have that information in your profile.

TT, 5th wheel, popup, A-frame, toyhauler, motorhome?

 

[Cgriffiths]

I’m changing from lead acid to 2 lithium lifepo4 100 Ah batteries . Question does engine alternator charge house batteries while driving. I’ve read posts about burning up engine alternator because of high current draw to charge lithium batteries . Has anyone run into this problem or have diagrams on how to disconnect . I have 440W of solar that will charge if needed while driving.
Thanks

2015 Sunseeker 2860D ford E450

 

[miataroadster]

I have a 2023 FR motorhome with E450. I had the same concern when I upgraded to 2-100 lifepo4 coach batteries. I ended up disconnecting the ground wire of my non-lithium BIM. Only my chassis battery gets charged by the alternator when driving.

 

[bikendan]

Personally, I wouldn't buy a LiPo battery for the Motorhome chassis.

LiPo batteries are great for the ability to handle slow drains, with slow solar recharging. So they make sense for the house area.

All the chassis battery needs to do is start the engine and the alternator recharging it. So instant Cold Cranking Amps is more important.

"While it's possible to start an engine with a LiPo battery, it's generally not recommended for everyday use due to the high current demands of starting motors and the potential for damage to the LiPo if not properly managed. LiPo batteries, while offering high discharge rates, may not have the necessary safety features or capacity to handle the surge currents required for engine starting in many vehicles."

 

[Cgriffiths]

Personally, I wouldn't buy a LiPo battery for the Motorhome chassis.

LiPo batteries are great for the ability to handle slow drains, with slow solar recharging. So they make sense for the house area.

All the chassis battery needs to do is start the engine and the alternator recharging it. So instant Cold Cranking Amps is more important.

"While it's possible to start an engine with a LiPo battery, it's generally not recommended for everyday use due to the high current demands of starting motors and the potential for damage to the LiPo if not properly managed. LiPo batteries, while offering high discharge rates, may not have the necessary safety features or capacity to handle the surge currents required for engine starting in many vehicles."

I’m changing my. House batteries only not my chassis battery that will remain lead acid

 

[Aussieguy]

either disconnect the original BIM or swap it for a newer LI-BIM
(if you got one)


there are multiple ways to handle the lifepo4 and chassis battery connections
just disconnect the BIM until you decide which is best for you

solar?
alternator swap?
drive enough each day ?
your camping style is really the deciding factor

 

[Cgriffiths]

I have a 2023 FR motorhome with E450. I had the same concern when I upgraded to 2-100 lifepo4 coach batteries. I ended up disconnecting the ground wire of my non-lithium BIM. Only my chassis battery gets charged by the alternator when driving.

Thanks