On Tue, Sep 21, 2010 at 7:35 AM, Jack R. <jack007@comcast.net> wrote:

> I have the standard configuration (relay) for my Aux battery in my 84 Westy.

...

>
> The problem is that with the relay, the aux battery does not seem to charge
> as quickly as the main battery, and will in fact drain when running the
> Dometic Fridge even when the van is running.
>
>

What gauge wire is between your starter and aux battery? Also....
extra loads (heater fan, headlights, charging appliances make a
difference as do quality of wires, connections, condition/rated output
of alternator, and starter battery etc. And..... is the starter
battery low when you experience this issue? If so, I'd consider that a
large load. Not sure of the exact "ins and outs", but assuming the
path is: alt. --> starter battery --> relay/aux battery, if starter
battery low or failing (losing its charger over time, not taking a
charger) my gut tells me it would suck amps before they got to aux.
battery.

Neil.

--
Neil Nicholson '81 VanaJetta 2.0 "Jaco"

http://tubaneil.googlepages.com/

http://groups.google.com/group/vanagons-with-vw-inline-4-cylinder-gas-engines