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Installing DC to DC charger in Toyota Tacoma

 I had a difficult decision to make. Power is the most important problem in my trips and I was under impression that solar is the best option but I couldn't wrap my head around all the space I need for a decent setup. I don't think anything less than 200w is practical, considering cloudy days or shorter winter days. If you camp for a long time, solar is the best power option but I move and drive a lot. After a lot of research and up and down, I decided to go with a DC to DC charger. I know I can easily use a simple relay and don't spend a lot but I know for experience that any addition to car's electrical system should be taken more seriously. Saving extra $50 doesn't worth screwing around your car's electric system. You can easily put a lot of work load on the alternator and fry it in time. Out of many car problems, the alternator is the only one I don't hesitate to fix.

Renege had a big sale so everything was a perfect match and I got my DC to DC charger. I went with 20A, since my need is minimum and I haven't upgraded my factory alternator. Renege has a low current mode that cuts the charging to 50% I can use for longer drive time.

Perhaps other components are more hassle, especially wire! Yes, I didn't know I should use marine grade wires until after I purchased wires, and boy it can get expensive, so I used regular wires and I tried to have a solid installation.



I also got ANL fuses, for extra safety.

and setup, wrapping the conduit and soldering connectors:


adding heat shrink wire wraps:

installing Renege Dc to Dc charger on a board:

adding ANL fuses and wire connections:

I used the PVC pipe as a shield so I can pass wires from one side of the bed to the other side.

I made a wooden battery box for the AGM battery, with all wire connections and a small convertor. I may upgrade the convertor later.


and everything was a perfect fit in the bed:



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