I recently upgraded from a 2004 Connect to 2014 Custom and was hoping to transfer over my leisure battery. I've been using a Durite VSR system which has been working fine on the old Connect but I believe the VSR is not suitable for the newer Euro 5 vehicles with smart altenators. I've been doing some reasearch on here and other websites and I think I have a few options but it's giving me a bit of a headache, I think i find a solution then find a problem. I've listed the options below and if anyone can advise if my understanding is correct it would be much appreciated before I shell out any cash
Option 1 Use current VSR
- Not suitable for smart altenators
- Charging mode can be changed to standard charging as per instruction in BEMM but permanent change to standard charging can cause damage apparently
- VSR does not disconnect at engine off and can stay connected for some time, not ideal according to BEMM and disconnection should be at engine off.
Option 2 Fit leisure battery alongside starter battery using Ford supplied dual battery kit for wiring and relay
- paying Ford prices for parts - not sure what this is yet but all dealers screw you on cost don't they
- Would this connect leisure and starter battery at ignition on? If so would this damage leisure battery as it is not designed for starting vehicles?
+ fitment would be as intended by Ford so no issues caused
+ batteries disconnect at ignition off
Option 3 Buy a battery to battery charger
- £200 extra spend
+ designed to work with smart altenators
+ better, fuller charging of battery
Looks like option 2 or 3 are possible but can anyone advise on any advantages / disadvantages of each? I have a feeling the cost is going to be similar for both.
Cheers