hey everybody
I have an Orion Smart 12v/12v 18A (HQ22053GE69) that I have been using in my van for 2 years with no problem. It charges my LiFePO4 battery, at 15A-18A most of the time. All cables are 4mm2 and the max length is 1.5m. All connections looks good.
A few days ago, it begun to shut on and off every 15s or so.
I believe that it is due to the input voltage being too low.
- When the charger is off, the input voltage is 14v.
- When the charger turns on, the input voltage drops to 11.63V, activating the input voltage lock-out. Before turning off, I can hear the 2.1l diesel engine (at idle) struggling with the increased amount of power needed (more than usual I thing).
What does it mean?
Does it mean my alternator is dying? (My engine battery is fully charged).
It's an old van with a 70A alternator. Is an Orion Smart 12v/12v 18A too much for my 70A alternator?
Or can it be something else?
I appreciate any input.