Batteries

[Kentish Paul]

I have a Bongo converted by AVA. I know absolutely nothing about car electrics (or car anything!). The car has an electrical input under the rear bumper, a panel which I think is called a “zig” and a leisure battery which seems connected to the main battery by a hefty cable. Can someone tell me (or guess):

a) Does the alternator charge the Leisure battery at same time as main battery?
b) If leisure Battery has never been used (I will only star fitting/using appliances this summer), will it be damaged.
c) Presumably, the rear 12v socket which feeds the AVA fitted a kitchen unit including cool box is fed by the leisure battery. Is it likely that any other items such as electric blinds would be powered by the LB?

Many thanks

Paul

[stilldesperate]

a) Does the alternator charge the Leisure battery at same time as main battery?
b) If leisure Battery has never been used (I will only star fitting/using appliances this summer), will it be damaged.
c) Presumably, the rear 12v socket which feeds the AVA fitted a kitchen unit including cool box is fed by the leisure battery. Is it likely that any other items such as electric blinds would be powered by the LB?

Many thanks

Paul

a) Should do - put a meter across battery with engine off - should be no more than 12.8v (ish) start engine - should rise to 13.8 (ish)

b) Shouldn't be - check that there's distilled water covering the plates if you can unscrew the toop caps

c) To find out, stop the engine, and disconnect one lead from the starter battery. Don't let it short out!. See what works - any that do are from the LB

SD

[dobby]

Hi there, we've got an AVA bongo with an LB they fitted. We bought ours in 2005. At that time they were relucant to isolate and feed fittings via the LB. I'd assume that yours wasn't. stilldesperate's test is the best way though