Latest thoughts on battery monitor and charge controller - Escape Trailer Owners Community
Journey with Confidence RV GPS App RV Trip Planner RV LIFE Campground Reviews RV Maintenance Take a Speed Test Free 7 Day Trial ×

Go Back   Escape Trailer Owners Community > Escape Tech > Escape Systems | Water, Waste, Charging & Propane
Click Here to Login
Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
 
Old 06-18-2017, 11:30 AM   #1
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Dec 2013
Location: Denver, Colorado
Trailer: 2015 5.0 TA (sold) '13 Tundra DC 4.6 tow
Posts: 104
Latest thoughts on battery monitor and charge controller

We added the Escape panel and charge controller (GoPower) to our 5.0 TA before pickup. I'm thinking about adding a monitor now and eventually replacing the charge controller. My initial thoughts were to use Trimetric for both, but I'm seeing other brands being used with success. I'm interested in current thoughts on what other owners have installed.
Thanks!
Chuck
Chuckster is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-18-2017, 02:33 PM   #2
Senior Member
 
Patandlinda's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: Ventura County, California
Trailer: 2013 19 Escape
Posts: 7,203
Quote:
Originally Posted by Chuckster View Post
We added the Escape panel and charge controller (GoPower) to our 5.0 TA before pickup. I'm thinking about adding a monitor now and eventually replacing the charge controller. My initial thoughts were to use Trimetric for both, but I'm seeing other brands being used with success. I'm interested in current thoughts on what other owners have installed.
Thanks!
Chuck
Hi Chuck was going with the Trimetic but went with Victron . Even AM solar is using as well . I found a little less money , so easy to install and everything included including the shunt .. Finally got to use in the field recently and really loved I could get better readings on my batteries . Check out their website . Pat
Patandlinda is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-18-2017, 02:37 PM   #3
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: Southwick, Massachusetts
Trailer: None, sold my 2014 5.0TA
Posts: 7,124
I have the Bogart set (Trimetric monitor and solar controller). I like to tinker so it suits me just fine, although it might be overkill for those who just want something more plug and play.Y ou can use it as simply or as detailed as you like.

I bought it a few years ago when it was one of the few controllers that let one get the max from the Interstate batteries, this may have changed. I haven't kept up with developments.

Bogart gives you free software updates, although it's up to you to send it back to them for such, as well as knowing when they are available.

I found their tech support very helpful, you leave a message and they call you back in the next day +/-.

To really take advantage of the monitors capabilities, you need their controller.
__________________
Happy Motoring
Bob
padlin is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-18-2017, 09:27 PM   #4
Senior Member
 
fudge_brownie's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2008
Location: Janesville, WI, Wisconsin
Trailer: Escape 19 (sold) Escape 21 2014
Posts: 1,878
Like Bob I have the Trimetric, however their controller was not available when I purchased and installed so I am using a Blue Sky 30 for controller. I believe the best solution is a solar controller that has a remote viewing option or an app capability. The Blue Sky 3000i with an optional IPN monitor is an example of this. That said, who wants to toss out a functioning solar controller.

I think the Trimetric is putsy, some arcane instructions, minimal calculations, some prior knowledge helpful. The configuration information is readily available for those willing to search, the key point is it does not work out of the box. I like what it does, I think it could be better designed from a functional perspective. It is definitely a one man shop that you are buying from, good support but what if . . .

I do not know a thing about the Victron, but would certainly consider it a viable option.
__________________
Paul and Janet Braun
2003 Toyota 4Runner V8 now 2012 Toyota Sequoia V8
Escape 19' 2010 now 2014 Escape 21'
fudge_brownie is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-18-2017, 10:53 PM   #5
Senior Member
 
Patandlinda's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: Ventura County, California
Trailer: 2013 19 Escape
Posts: 7,203
Quote:
Originally Posted by fudge_brownie View Post
Like Bob I have the Trimetric, however their controller was not available when I purchased and installed so I am using a Blue Sky 30 for controller. I believe the best solution is a solar controller that has a remote viewing option or an app capability. The Blue Sky 3000i with an optional IPN monitor is an example of this. That said, who wants to toss out a functioning solar controller.

I think the Trimetric is putsy, some arcane instructions, minimal calculations, some prior knowledge helpful. The configuration information is readily available for those willing to search, the key point is it does not work out of the box. I like what it does, I think it could be better designed from a functional perspective. It is definitely a one man shop that you are buying from, good support but what if . . .

I do not know a thing about the Victron, but would certainly consider it a viable option.
Victron ,Besides the price , easy instructions with pictures for electrical dummies like me , great phone support . I bought the 700 because I only want to monitor one battery bank 2 6volts , wired in series .They have another 702 which has more bells and whistles for a little more . Latest technology I believe from Sweden . I couldn't believe how easy to install and set up . Everything included but you can buy extra accessories like a toggle . I only had a little volt metering the dummy meter before ,and the Victron gave all kinds of readings . Volts , %, how long I can go etc. as I said AN solar also is now selling on their website . Everything In a nice package that I can understand . Pat
Patandlinda is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-18-2017, 11:40 PM   #6
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2014
Location: Juneau, Alaska
Trailer: 2015 17A - Ready for more Maiden Voyages ....
Posts: 881
What is AN Solar? I'm interested,
Thank you,
Tom
__________________
Consciousness: That confusing time between naps
StarvingHyena is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-18-2017, 11:42 PM   #7
Senior Member
 
float5's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: Denison, Texas
Trailer: 2015 21'; 2011 19' sold; 4Runner; ph ninezero3 327-27ninefour
Posts: 5,136
AM Solar, the company.
__________________
Cathy. Floating Cloud
"Live in the sunshine, swim the sea, drink the wild air.... "
Emerson
float5 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-18-2017, 11:55 PM   #8
Senior Member
 
Patandlinda's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: Ventura County, California
Trailer: 2013 19 Escape
Posts: 7,203
Quote:
Originally Posted by StarvingHyena View Post
What is AN Solar? I'm interested,
Thank you,
Tom
Sorry Tom my I-pad decides how it wants it spelled AM Solar . Pat
Patandlinda is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-19-2017, 01:31 AM   #9
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2014
Location: Juneau, Alaska
Trailer: 2015 17A - Ready for more Maiden Voyages ....
Posts: 881
Hi Pat,
Thank you. Yeah I wondered what. My spell check drives me nuts too but often its quite comical.

I'm trying to figure out future moves to make my trailer more efficient. Soon, I think, my microwave will go else ware. It's nice but has just too much electrical drain. What I need is accurate data collection so I can make (somewhat) intelligent decisions for my electrical system design. I'm interested in a good charge controller so am all ears here.

I'll go explore AM Solar....

Thanks for the help.

Tom
__________________
Consciousness: That confusing time between naps
StarvingHyena is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-19-2017, 01:42 AM   #10
Senior Member
 
Patandlinda's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: Ventura County, California
Trailer: 2013 19 Escape
Posts: 7,203
Quote:
Originally Posted by StarvingHyena View Post
Hi Pat,
Thank you. Yeah I wondered what. My spell check drives me nuts too but often its quite comical.

I'm trying to figure out future moves to make my trailer more efficient. Soon, I think, my microwave will go else ware. It's nice but has just too much electrical drain. What I need is accurate data collection so I can make (somewhat) intelligent decisions for my electrical system design. I'm interested in a good charge controller so am all ears here.

I'll go explore AM Solar....

Thanks for the help.

Tom
Tom you can check Victron site for information on 700 or 702 . I purchased ours at Amazon . I just recently got to test when we were boondocking and it was very nice to see what was going on with the batteries . I need a lot of help with electrical but was very happy how easy installing the battery moniter was . I mentioned AM Solar using their product because they have the latest and are respected for their installations . Pat
Patandlinda is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-19-2017, 02:18 AM   #11
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2014
Location: Juneau, Alaska
Trailer: 2015 17A - Ready for more Maiden Voyages ....
Posts: 881
Thank you Pat. I will go there a learn all I can. I'm not new to this stuff but it keeps evolving and I need to "get on it" again and catch up. Very much appreciate the help.

Tom
__________________
Consciousness: That confusing time between naps
StarvingHyena is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-19-2017, 08:56 AM   #12
Senior Member
 
thoer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2009
Location: Galesville, Wisconsin
Trailer: 2017 21 "Blue II" & 2017 Highlander XLE (previously 2010 17B "Blue" & 2008 Tacoma)
Posts: 4,232
Quote:
Originally Posted by Patandlinda View Post
Hi Chuck was going with the Trimetic but went with Victron . Even AM solar is using as well . I found a little less money , so easy to install and everything included including the shunt .. Finally got to use in the field recently and really loved I could get better readings on my batteries . Check out their website . Pat
Pat are you using the Victron monitor with an ETI installed GoPower controller or did you buy a complete Victron system?
__________________
Eric (and Mary who is in no way responsible for anything stupid I post)

"Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance." George Bernard Shaw
thoer is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-19-2017, 10:34 AM   #13
Senior Member
 
Patandlinda's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: Ventura County, California
Trailer: 2013 19 Escape
Posts: 7,203
Quote:
Originally Posted by thoer View Post
Pat are you using the Victron monitor with an ETI installed GoPower controller or did you buy a complete Victron system?
Eric for now I bought the battery charger you suggested and it really charges my batteries up . I installed the Victron battery monitor in our trailer . I do have Escapes solar pre install when we purchased our trailer, only . I have a GO Power 80 watt folding suitcase portable it has a little charger installed on it . What I found because the 2 , 6 volts are really getting a good charge now from the battery minder at home ,the portable Go Power brought the batteries back up to 100% every day in a few hours . Our biggest draw at night was the heater and of course the water pump for showers . I would like to install some solar on the trailer and am hopeful the newer flexible panels may work . You can see my Victron monitor in my picture albums . Technology moves so fast it is hard sometimes to keep up . If and when I install solar on the trailer I will get a solar charger and install on trailer , will still have the portable as back up to add to the solar . I was just surprised for us and our needs we don't need much in solar especially if batteries start with a good charge . The on board charger didn't charge our batteries as well as the battery minder you suggested and now am using . Pat
Patandlinda is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-19-2017, 02:25 PM   #14
Senior Member
 
thoer's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2009
Location: Galesville, Wisconsin
Trailer: 2017 21 "Blue II" & 2017 Highlander XLE (previously 2010 17B "Blue" & 2008 Tacoma)
Posts: 4,232
Pat, I become more and more impressed with the BatteryMinder the more I use it. It resurrected a 12v sealed lead acid battery I used for our solar charged electric garden fence. I've current got a buddy's 12v deep cycle from his Aliner on it and it seems to have brought it back up to a higher charge capacity.
__________________
Eric (and Mary who is in no way responsible for anything stupid I post)

"Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance." George Bernard Shaw
thoer is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 06-19-2017, 02:42 PM   #15
Senior Member
 
Patandlinda's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: Ventura County, California
Trailer: 2013 19 Escape
Posts: 7,203
Quote:
Originally Posted by thoer View Post
Pat, I become more and more impressed with the BatteryMinder the more I use it. It resurrected a 12v sealed lead acid battery I used for our solar charged electric garden fence. I've current got a buddy's 12v deep cycle from his Aliner on it and it seems to have brought it back up to a higher charge capacity.
Really see the difference and am happy with this charger . Thankyou . Pat
Patandlinda is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 07-05-2017, 07:46 AM   #16
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Dec 2013
Location: Denver, Colorado
Trailer: 2015 5.0 TA (sold) '13 Tundra DC 4.6 tow
Posts: 104
Thanks for all of the replies here. I think I'm going to install the Victron 700 and operate with the existing charge controller for now. We are going to be doing mostly dry camping this summer and fall, so I can at least learn more about our usage and see if the Go Power performs to specification. I would also like to find an additional portable flexible panel to add upstream of the existing controller for early spring and fall sun position (or shaded campsites).
Chuck
Attached Thumbnails
IMG_0335.jpg  
Chuckster is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 07-05-2017, 09:28 AM   #17
Senior Member
 
AK snowbiker's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: Alaska, Washington
Trailer: 2014 5.0 TA
Posts: 451
Be sure to get the Bluetooth dongle with the Victron 700. It's kind of neat being able to take a peek at your batteries from your living room, or when your on the road with your phone or iPad. Scott

Scott and Lori
__________________
Scott and Lori
Aurora Borealis
2014 5.0 TA
AK snowbiker is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 07-22-2017, 09:20 AM   #18
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Dec 2013
Location: Denver, Colorado
Trailer: 2015 5.0 TA (sold) '13 Tundra DC 4.6 tow
Posts: 104
Quote:
Originally Posted by Chuckster View Post
Thanks for all of the replies here. I think I'm going to install the Victron 700 and operate with the existing charge controller for now. We are going to be doing mostly dry camping this summer and fall, so I can at least learn more about our usage and see if the Go Power performs to specification. I would also like to find an additional portable flexible panel to add upstream of the existing controller for early spring and fall sun position (or shaded campsites).
Chuck
So I detoured from my plan a bit - I picked up a Blue Sky 30 for $113, plus the temp sensor. I still need the faceplate adapter. I'm going to add the Victron 700 as a monitor and install everything at once.
Chuck
Chuckster is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 07-23-2017, 03:32 PM   #19
Senior Member
 
skiman's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2013
Location: Jeromesville, Ohio
Trailer: 2014 Escape 21' pulled with 2014 Silverado Crewcab
Posts: 853
I went a little different way. I recently installed a Clipper battery monitor and a Progressive Wildcat from Best Converters. The Clipper compact version is surface mount and comes with a 100 amp shunt that is perfect for our trailers. I would of liked to install the display over the frig, but the cable while long, could not make it all the way from the battery box to the overhead. Instead, i mounted it above the dinette in the back. Display is very easy to read and gives the important information.

The Wildcat kit was a snap. About 30 minutes start to finish. Construction of converter is very robust compared to stock. Mounted the control dongle on the front of the box as others have done.
Attached Thumbnails
IMG_20170723_151922506.jpg   IMG_20170723_152003351.jpg   IMG_20170723_152009512.jpg   IMG_20170723_162759762.jpg  
__________________
Carl,

"Isn't it amazing how much stuff we get done the day before vacation?"
Zig Ziglar
skiman is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 08-21-2017, 03:50 PM   #20
Senior Member
 
tdf-texas's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2015
Location: Baytown, Texas
Trailer: 2017 21' Escape - upgraded version
Posts: 2,697
I just finished installing the Victron 700 battery shunt and the solar controller. Here are the pics of the install. The battery cables were crimped using a 10 ton hydraulic crimper - making the cables up seemed to be the hardest part of the install. While I was at it, I cleaned up the wiring routing as AC and DC wiring shouldn't be bundled together.
Attached Thumbnails
Battery Shunt.jpg   Solar Controller.jpg   Shunt and controller location.jpg  
__________________
Normal people believe that if it ain't broke, don't fix it.
Engineers believe in fixing it so that it never breaks.
tdf-texas is offline   Reply With Quote
Reply

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are Off
Pingbacks are Off
Refbacks are Off




» Featured Campgrounds

Reviews provided by

Disclaimer:

This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by Escape Trailer Industries or any of its affiliates. This is an independent, unofficial site.


All times are GMT -5. The time now is 04:39 AM.


Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.8 Beta 4
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, vBulletin Solutions, Inc.
Copyright 2023 Social Knowledge, LLC All Rights Reserved.