Xantrex RS2000

[23skidoo]

I've just replaced my Heart Freedom Inverter/charger with a Xantrex RS2000 in my Beaver Marquis. I'd like to add the ability of the RS2000 to also charge the Chassis battery and see there are choices of several that claim to do this. Any experience would be appreciated.

[Gary RVRoamer]

One device that will do that is the Xantrex Echo Charger
Xantrex Technology Inc. - Recreational Vehicles - echo~charge - Product Information

Another is the Intellitec Bi-directional Isolator relay, which handles charging of either coach or chassis batteries from the other's charging source.

Bi Directional Isolator Relay Delay

[EngineerMike]

23Skid- I'd recommend the Echo Charger as the easier of the two as most wiring takes place at or near the batteries themselves, whereas location for the BIRD may be more involved. You can probably follow the Alpine Echo schematic pretty closely along w/the docs that come w/the Echo for a casual DIY install, or have a professional do it.

[Gary RVRoamer]

The only drawback to the Xantrex Echo is that it only goes one way, charging the chassis batteries from the house system. It does not provide house battery charging from the engine alternator when on the road.. Not a big deal but worth mentioning. The BiRD handles charging in both directions.

[EngineerMike]

Gary- Very worth mentioning; I should have.

[Tincup]

I installed the Trik-L-Start
http://http://www.lslproducts.com/TLSPage.html a year ago and have had no problems. Friends of mine have had one for several years and swear by it. Cheap insurance for $50.00.

[23skidoo]

After checking the specs. on three of the devices, Plus some advice on this site, I've ordered the Trik-L-Start. It seems to do everything I want, and being something of a cheapskate, it's half the price of the Xantrex device.