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  #1  
Old 08-30-2009, 05:18 PM
 
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Default Charging 18 volt system

A bit off topic, but I think you can help me. I am a delivery truck driver. I just got a new 24 volt electric pallet jack. I want to charge my pallet jack with a solar charger. The jack has two 12 volt deep cycle batteries hooked in series. I currently plug in every two weeks. Can I simply buy two 12 volt chargers, hook them in series and charge my system? What size charger(s) should I purchase? Any help is appreciated.

Last edited by jimmm; 08-30-2009 at 05:48 PM.
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Old 08-30-2009, 05:32 PM
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Huh? You don't charge 24 volt systems with 18 volt chargers.
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Old 08-30-2009, 05:45 PM
 
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Default 24 volt

Sorry, I meant to say 'Charging 24 volt system'.

Last edited by jimmm; 08-30-2009 at 09:17 PM.
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Old 08-30-2009, 05:54 PM
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What size are the batteries in amp hours?
How deeply will they be discharged each day?
What is your location?
What is your budget?
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Old 08-30-2009, 05:56 PM
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Most likely it uses a DC-DC converter to drop it to 18 volts for the pallet jack. That doesn't affect the charging side.

Why not use a 24v system for it? I can't and won't recomend any componets without much more detail than you give. Basic componets will be the charge controller and solar panels. Yes 2 - 12 volt panels can be hooked in series to produce the 24v needed. The charge controller will be needed for regulation so they don't become over charged.
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Old 08-31-2009, 03:26 AM
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Get a 24v charger. If you are absolutely sure the 12v charger cables are isolated from charger case and ground prong of AC plug then you can use two 12v charger connected as if you are charging two separate 12 v batteries. One charger on each battery.

Although the DC to DC converter can be least attention, be careful your truck's alternator can supply worse case loads for the truck plus the DC to DC charger.

Last edited by RCinFLA; 09-01-2009 at 03:18 AM.
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