Ignition override...

[PradoP Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close PradoP]

Hi,

2015 GXL and Projecta IDC25 charger.

Where do I wire the 'ignition override connect to ignition feed if smart alt.' cable? I am an idiot and mean where exactly i.e.- not 'just a spare fuse'. Charger is living under the bonnet so hopefully I can do so in the engine bay. I know it's easier to get an auto sparky to do it but I like to do things myself.

Unfortunately I just can't get my head around this one and need some very specific and idiot proof guidance on what to do.


Cheers,
P.

[120D4D Avid PP Poster! Find all posts View Profile Close 120D4D]

Hi PradoP, the 2015 Prado doesnt have a smart alternator. Whilst it appears to be temperature compensating, true smart alternators drop their outputs very low, in some cases down to mid 12 volt range...

Edit: from the manual:
5. If your vehicle has fixed voltage or temperature compensating alternator
installed, leave the Ignition Override cable (blue colour) open.
If your vehicle has smart (variable voltage) alternator installed, the Ignition
Override cable must be connected to the vehicle’s ignition. The IDC25 will only
operate when the vehicle’s ignition is turned on.
However, if solar panels are connected to IDC25, the IDC25 will operate and
only draw power from solar panels (assuming vehicle’s ignition is turned off).
Fit a 1-2A fuse to the cable as close as possible to the vehicle’s ignition.
Consult the vehicle manufacturer for type of alternator installed in your vehicle.

Trust this helps.

[peter_mcc Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close peter_mcc]

If you've put it under the bonnet it (probably) won't work as well as it could. The manual says it derates itself from 55C up and is only spec'd up to 80C. If you're in the Outback on a hot day driving slowly/stopped the unit will get hot.

I know - we had a Projecta low voltage cutout mounted in the engine bay. Our fridge kept defrosting down in the Flinders Ranges and I couldn't work out why - turns out the engine bay was too hot for it and it decided I was drawing too much current so it shut down.