Blackberry mountain bike day van /camper conversion

[SnoodyMcFlude]

Made a sort of table today so I can have the stove on the rear door. It ain’t pretty but is functional. Made using some lining ply that I had lying about.

First routered out the existing bit of ply


Then cut some supports


And finally a table top


At some point I’ll work out a way to store the bits neatly on the door but fairly happy with it. Not sure how it’ll work in practice, possibly a bit too high but that’s not the end of the world.

Might finally attempt the wiring/leisure battery if the weather isn’t too shit tomorrow, or otherwise try and rig up a sort of awning to go on top of the barn doors.


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[owdi]

Following this one.. I was purchased a split charger for my 2012 but had to return it when I was informed that facelift Caddy 2011-2015 (approx) are Euro5 and they need a more specific type of split charger. I guess this has all been covered on this forum but I'm new to it and not come across that info yet, but my understanding is that a Euro5 compliant vehicles don't run the alternator constantly, so traditional split chargers are no good.

[mark1a]

I’m following this too. I’ve done some research into the leisure / aux battery thing and the split relay won’t work. It means getting a DC-DC type system, costing nearly £200 for something like the Sterling Power BB1230 however they look like they have the EU5 / EU6 charging nailed.

Couple of videos here explain it well, and better than I could.

https://youtu.be/cJlk2nMGrys

https://youtu.be/OudqpMxrel0

Nice Caddy!

[Calamity Kev]

I'm just finishing building a battery tray with a Sterling BB1230 ready to fit, i'll post some ics once installed and setup. I'm Euro 6 and it appears to be the only way to go.

[SnoodyMcFlude]

Bugger, hadn't realised that. Do all post-2011 vans have them or is there a way of knowing for sure that it's got a smart alternator?

The next couple of months are busy with motorsport and then paying for ski holidays, so the extra money on a £180 split charge may have to wait a bit! In the interim think I'll still wire up a battery to lights and sockets to make the van more usable, then just charge the battery at home.

Anyone want to buy a Durite split charge relay?

[mark1a]

The guy in the first video link I posted explains how to check. Basically plug a volt meter into a 12v socket and drive around for 15 minutes. If the voltage fluctuates wildly you have a smart alternator.

[JD2k]

I’ve just fitted a Durite spilt charge relay system to my 2012 1.6tdi.. I’ve not come across any problems and have tested the starter battery voltage a couple of times.. I’ll double check for any fluctuations while driving, thanks for the info lads

[Doc]

If you have start/stop you'd be best using the smart split charger as the alternator can but out almost 15v while regenerative braking. If you don't have a AGM battery or other suitable for this high voltage, you may do harm.

[SnoodyMcFlude]

Thankfully don't have start/stop but will do the volt meter check.

[Shaunie P]

Has to be the best colour IMHO

[caddychris2002]

Where did people get with the battery thing

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[SnoodyMcFlude]

I didn't confirm if I have Euro5/6 but have basically decided that I'll need the expensive split charge option. However at the minute I have been coping fine as the only power I really need is for lights, and I can run them off a USB charger. At some point I need to complete the wiring but even then I may only hook up to a leisure battery that I charge at home rather than through split charge. The only thing that I'd really like to sort is the ability to have the lights on a switch, rather than plugging them in every time.

[caddychris2002]

I've ordered one of these. Might do the same as you get the battery and then save for the charge system

MASO 4 Hole Toggle Switch Panel with Dual USB Socket Charger 2.1A&2.1A + LED Voltmeter + 12V Power Outlet + ON-OFF Toggle Switch 4 in 1 Multi-function Panel for Marine Car Boat Truck Trailer Camper Motorhome Mobiles (Red) https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07H4B5R8N/ ... UBbZB2G34F

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[sharky4642]

Hi I have a Ring RSCDC30 smart split charger installed in my 2013 bluemotion caddy and its really good I would highly recommend it if you are looking at getting a split charger. I have it hooked up to a 110ah battery and it copped really well on a week away to the lakes. the bonus is its a bit cheaper than the smart systems.