This topic brought over from it’s own separate thread. I’ll go into detail on what the initial issue was and follow up with steps taken to resolve. It should help lithium battery owners in setting up the proper charge profile for their lithium batteries.
First of all thanks to the below who helped me identify and resolve the issue:
1. Brian @ Momentum Vans
2. Fitz, who put me in touch with VTSOUNDMAN
3. Scalf77
4. VTSOUNDMAN: Many texts and well rounded expert advice over two days while I was entering data and troubleshooting in the van!
The initial issue: the BMS started alarming and then shut down when I was hooking up to shore power.
This was traced to HVC of 14.8V that was being provided by the Xantrex.
There were many steps and a bunch of attempts, but I’ll keep the solution as a step by step progression. Then the next post I’ll talk what I’ve gleaned from the experts on the subject matter and how I then reprogrammed my Balmar Smart Regulator.
1. The Lithionics Charge Profile is attached. These are the parameters used to program the inverter/charger and the smart regulator.
2. Set the charge profile in the Xantrex:
a. CUSTOM battery setting in ADVANCED SETTINGS
Bulk: 14.4V
Absorption: 14.4V
Float: 13.2V (although this won’t be used)
Temp compensation: set to ZERO
2-STAGE, NO FLOAT
There are a few more steps in the Xantrex but the basic ones are above. Pictures of the SCP show progression.
__________________
2017 4X4 2500 144" Stone Grey High Top
The discussions I had with Brian @Momentum Vans, VTSOUNDMAN, and further research have led me to believe that I’ll lower the bulk/absorption voltages even more.
I’ve already lowered my Balmar Regulator to 14.2V bulk/absorption.
The Xantrex currently will not let me lower the bulk lower than 14.4V, even though the Manual states the minimum bulk setting allowed is 13.7V. This could be a firmware issue or perhaps an SCP issue.
1. I will first try and reset at the inverter itself, although this is tough at the location.
2. If that doesn’t work I’ll contact Xantrex.
The bottom line from discussion and recommendations is that the bulk and absorption do not need to be at 14.4-14.6V.
__________________
2017 4X4 2500 144" Stone Grey High Top
During a recent oil change a No-Spill quick change oil plug was installed. Due to the VC skid plate changing the oil, even while trying to “throttle” the stock plug, resulted in oil all over the skid plate. The oval opening provided is nice but the oil still finds its way all over the plate.
The quick change plug will illuminate this, using the provided fitting and hose to drain the oil through the oval opening.
There are different types, I chose the standard screw on type. The kit comes with the required crush ring.
The plug does protrude out a bit. If I didn’t have the skid plate I’d be hesitant to install. However, the skid plate is the reason to have it installed.
NO SPILL SYSTEMS
PART #10-14150-01
Size: M14X1.5MM SB T9
Torque: 20 foot-pounds
I heard back from Lithionics, the OEM of our batteries.
They attached the specific document related to our inverter/charger. Interesting that their parameters are higher. They also recommend a couple parameters for the inverter, which I will program.
I’ve attached the document.
Charger profile is:
Bulk: 14.6V
Absorption: 14.6V
Float: 13.4V
__________________
2017 4X4 2500 144" Stone Grey High Top
This marks the first time I need to winterize the domestic water system since we bought the vehicle. Up until now the van has been either in continuous use or my care during the winter.
Linus the van has four major drain points through the floor and discharged to the ground:
1. WATER TANK: drain just aft of the water tank, driver side, blue line only valve. For draining water tank.
2. LOW POINT AFT: Aft of water tank drain, driver side, blue and red line valves. Low point aft includes outside shower, all lines aft.
3. FLAT PLATE MID VAN: In D5 common area, forward of rear wheel well. Blue and red line valves driver side. Drains low point for flat plate and D5 common.
4. SINK MID VAN: Next to sink, passenger side. Blue and red line valves located just aft of the sink next to lithium battery compartment.
Discounting the water tank discharge, the main discharge valves form a triangle of low points in the van. If all valves are opened and the water pump run until dry, the van is essentially cleared of all domestic potable water.
In addition to this Momentum Vans will add a blow out connection upstream of the water pump IOT further clear the lines.
__________________
2017 4X4 2500 144" Stone Grey High Top