Forum Discussion

opnspaces's avatar
opnspaces
Navigator II
Dec 26, 2021

Advice on replacing my IOTA battery charger for boondocking

I am looking for advice, or maybe just reassuring confirmation that what I am thinking is sound.
I'm looking for a three stage battery charger that I don't have to worry about. I just want to start the generator, plug in the shore power cord, let it run for a few hours and get the batteries back up to 90 percent.

I have a 2005 Jayco Jayflight 27BH travel trailer with a IOTA DLS-3045 load center (I have verified that IQ4 is not an option on this unit). I almost exclusively dry camp with two 6volt Costco batteries and a Honda EU2000i generator.

I was thinking about replacing my charger with an IOTA DLS-45 with IQ4. Not sure why I'm focusing on IOTA except that it's the same brand as the load center. With the IQ4 it is supposed to be a true 3 stage charger. IOTA DLS-45

My other thought based on years reading this form is something from Progressive Dynamics in the 92xx series. But the 92xx series appears to have a remote pendant that I have to use to put it into bulk mode which I want to avoid. Progressive Dynamics 92xx

I am thinking 45 amp so I don't need to upgrade the battery wiring.
I have plenty of room behind the load center for a deck mount charger.
Solar will probably be a few years off.

Two postings I found here that mention exactly what I'm thinking about.
Link 1
Link 2

What are your thoughts?
  • KD4UPL's avatar
    KD4UPL
    Explorer
    Dec 26, 2021
    I've installed a couple IOTA products over the years and like them. I'd install the largest charger your generator will power so it will charge faster and reduce run time.
  • Gdetrailer's avatar
    Gdetrailer
    Explorer III
    Dec 26, 2021
    I use a PD9160 with the charge wizard pedant, I don't think you can go wrong with the PD series as long as you have the pendant.

    So far I have been able to get 9yrs of use from a pair of 6V GC2s combined with my PD9160 with charge wizard. Would consider another PD series if my current one quits.

    With that said, Iotas, as long as you have the IQ4 pendant seem to have similar specs to the PDs. Don't think I have heard anything bad posted about Iotas with IQ4 pendant.

    If you didn't mind upgrading your wiring, there is a surplus electrics outlet which currently has Iota DLS-90 units for $125, they are working "pulls" from some sort of equipment so they are selling as used.

    Find that HERE, the IQ4 pendant is not included with that unit but the price is right for 90A..
  • Ed_Gee's avatar
    Ed_Gee
    Explorer II
    Dec 26, 2021
    The Progressive Dynamics PD9245C is a fine unit that would easily service your needs. It does NOT come with a remote control unit unless you order that. I have this charger in my mini motor home and know literally hundreds of others with same unit ... and have never heard any complaints.
  • Lwiddis's avatar
    Lwiddis
    Explorer II
    Dec 26, 2021
    “ I was thinking about replacing my charger with an IOTA DLS-45 with IQ4.”

    Go solar now and stop thinking about battery recharging 99% of the time, and recharge to 100%.

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