I've been using Ctek chargers for years now, and have three, one on each of
the three cars I store.  On the two vans I plug it into the cabinet socket
and hook up shore power.  http://smartercharger.com/

I have the basic model, and now they have a "polar" model that looks just
right for you!

I too have exploded a battery.  It happens when the electrolyte gets below
the grids and a spark is generated inside the battery, usually during
charging or jumping.  The Hydrogen gas in there goes ka-boom!

The Ctek justifies the term "smart charger."

Stuart

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Dennis Jowell
Sent: Saturday, January 10, 2015 3:26 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Westy battery charger

Good morning to all
My 20 year old Sears craftsman battery charger went south yesterday trying
to trickle charge my Westy main battery! Does anyone have a recommendation
for a new charger? Reading all the reviews of all the ones out their sure is
confusing. Many horror stories of the Chargers burning etc. batteries
exploding etc. any thoughts? Any suggestions?
Dennis

Dennis Jowell
Scotch Hollow Farm
Newbury Vermont =