User Manual ‎CTEK 40-186 40-186 D250SA 5-Step, Automatic DUAL 12 V 20 A Battery Charger

Question 1

#1 How far from the Alternator can this charger be placed. Assuming I use the correct gauge wire can i mount this charger in the bed of my truck?

Answer

The manual indicates with a minimum of 8AWG, the charger can be placed at 10m/30ft from the alternator.

Question 2

#2 Does this come with the straps (solid connectors) to connect to the Smartpass?

Answer

No, I believe the smartpass comes with the busbars.

Question 3

#3 With this device can I put the batteries in parallel ?

Answer

Our D250SA requires separate starter and service batteries however your service battery bank can include two or more batteries connected in parallel.

Question 4

#4 Can I connect a 12v 30watt small wind turbine to the charger utilizing the truck/alternator input?

Answer

Off hand it don't know. There is a current limit to the alternator input. To be sure call ctek support, they are most helpful.

Question 5

#5 Can you use this for a lithium battery setup?

Answer

The D250SE version can do lithium according to CTEK. But this one (the D250SA) is lead acid only.

Question 6

#6 Can I connect a 12v wind turbine to this charger?

Answer

Yes, at the same spot as the solar input. But you can't use both solar and wind at the same time. Not allowed.

Question 7

#7 Does this eliminate the need for a solar charge controller? Not sure if I can hook the solar panel directly to Ctek.

Answer

Yes, it does. That's what's great about it - it takes variable voltage input from an alternator or solar panel, and charges your battery pack. I've charged while driving and then used the panels while parked. Not cheap, but an excellent controller.

Question 8

#8 If I have the system wired correctly can i remove the second battery to leave at base camp and still operate the vehicle with out a 2nd battery?

Answer

Most definately, although i would pull out the fuse on the wire going to the charger so there's no current going to it.
The unit only 'activates' or starts charging once it gets over a particular voltage and stops when the voltage drops too low.

User Manual ‎CTEK 40-186 40-186 D250SA 5-Step, Automatic DUAL 12 V 20 A Battery Charger

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Owner manual PDF of ‎CTEK 40-186 40-186 D250SA 5-Step, Automatic DUAL 12 V 20 A Battery Charger.