I just wanted to share the current project I’m working on. I’m installing the Victron BMV 700 battery monitor.
The most challenging part was running the data cable from the shunt, located near the batteries, to the mounting location of the display.
My batteries are on the tongue of the trailer, so I am running the data cable, inside of some protective loom, along the steel gas line under the trailer. The cable then follows the gas line into the trailer’s floor under the cabinets where the display is installed. I had to disassemble the cabinets a little but I was able to get the cable through the wall to the mounting location. The display is mounted right next to all of the other controls and displays.
The last thing I need to do is mount the shunt on the tongue of the trailer. I ordered a weatherproof box for it today and hopefully that installation goes smoothly.
I’ll give an update when the whole project is done. Thanks for reading!
Victron makes a very good monitor and very happy with mine. Nice install but I am curious with the Victron Connect App allowing you read the data on your smart phone, why you would go through the trouble of mounting the unit in the coach? Nothing wrong with that approach just curious. I mounted mine in the basement storage area just inside the door. It was an easy run from the batteries to the monitor and with the app on my phone I have looked at the actual monitor twice.
Unless it is the 712 it won't have bluetooth unless you buy the dongle. We have the 712 with bluetooth but we mounted the monitor in the RV as well with the other guages/switches. There is a door that covers all of them. Personally I have found it much easier to look at the monitor vs. pulling out the phone, clicking the app. Sometimes it can take a little bit of time before the data presents. We also put the SCC monitor, solar array disconnect and the inverter remote in the same place. One stop shopping for all the camper info and switches. I am forever opening this cabinet and my wife is continually closing it behind me. :halo:
Hi Bruce, as Greg mentioned, my monitor isn’t Bluetooth so in doesn’t connect with my phone. I guess It just is my personal preference to have all of my displays in the same place.
I’m glad to hear you are happy with your monitor, I’m looking forward to getting mine fired up.
I also like having all of the displays and controls in the same place. When I add an inverter I will place the remote there also. Your set up looks good!
heck yeah Wade! It’s a fun little project. The next thing on my to do list is an inverter. I’m thinking I’m going to go with the Victron multi plus. It’s a charger/inverter that replaces the oem charger. When your not plugged in to shore power it will automatically switch to the inverter. It looks like a great system.
I bought my inverter through AM Solar and got the Smart ATS (Automatic Transfer Switch) with it. Other than working in tight spaces and with heavy wire, it makes for a fairly easy install as it eliminates the need for a sub-panel. It comes with a very clear wiring diagram. As for advice and tips unless you also have the Smart ATS from AM Solar I am likely not able to offer much as you will be needing to install a sub panel which I did not need to do. The connections should be straight forward. If you do not have the Smart ATS and do not want to deal with a sub-panel and/or want to more easily incorporate a generator, you can likely purchase just the Smart ATS from AM Solar, up to you. Also make sure to program the Victron Multiplus for the batteries you have.
Hi Bruce, can you expand on the Smart transfer switch? The Victron Multiplus has a high speed transfer switch built into it. Is this something for a 50amp service that allows for powering both legs in the AC MDP through the inverter?
We only have a 30AMP service and we simply wired our inverter directly into the panel. Only one hot leg on our camper. No sub panel needed.
Hi Greg, That makes sense, yes with 30-amp there is no need for a sub panel unless you want to isolate the inverter loads. The Smart ATS accomplishes a couple things, it enables wiring 50-amp without the need for a sub panel, designed to include a generator into the mix.