Trickle Charger Install

fellows
Chats A Bit

Posts: 160

Trickle Charger Install Aug 14, 2023 14:59:46 GMT via mobile

Quote

Post by fellows on Aug 14, 2023 14:59:46 GMT

This is probably not the right section for this post, but I wasn't sure what the most appropriate one was...!

I'm looking to fit a trickle charger to my NA. I'm thinking probably an OptiMate4 as sold on mx5parts (mainly because Ctek chargers are really expensive!).

However, I'd like the wiring to the battery to be permenantly installed (OptiMate sell a loom for this and a weatherproof panel connector) such that I can park the car up, lock it, and then connect the charger.

Has anyone ever seen this done before, and if so does anyone have a clever idea where the charger connection could be hidden so it can be accessed by is a) hidden and b) not getting trashed by rain and stones!?

Any helpful thoughts welcome, cheers!

Crumpets
Chats A Bit

Insert witty remark here...

Posts: 227

Trickle Charger Install Aug 14, 2023 23:02:54 GMT

Quote

Post by Crumpets on Aug 14, 2023 23:02:54 GMT

Not quote the same as how you've explained you want it, but if it helps, I have my CTEK wired to the battery terminals of the battery - allowing me to connect the battery tender and then keep the module inside the boot. I ran an extension cable to it and then closed the boot on the wire. (The rubber seal forms around the cable and prevents water getting in the event of rain.) This plug/loom then tucks up around the side of the battery when not in use.

I have been fortunate enough to have dry storage over the last year though, so the latter hasn't applied. - But it's been faultless for both indoor and outdoor applications.

七転び八起き

Nana korobi ya oki.

fellows
Chats A Bit

Posts: 160

Trickle Charger Install Aug 15, 2023 4:25:44 GMT via mobile Crumpets likes this

Quote

Post by fellows on Aug 15, 2023 4:25:44 GMT

Thanks for the reply.

Your method is probably a lot more sensible really! I did steer away from closing the boot on the cable originally as I didn't want to damage the boot seal and potentially cause a leak.

I take it that hasn't been an issue for you, even when the charger isn't installed (just out and about but caught in the rain)?

I am now happily in a position to garage the car, so this may be less of a problem than before.

Last Edit: Aug 15, 2023 6:22:22 GMT by fellows

queenie: Hiya fellas and fellettes. My name is Gary, I am 72, live in rural Victoria (Australia), am an unashamed Anglophile and own a gold 1998 NB. I bought her in 2016, reflecting at the time that I had wanted a car like this since age 15. Yep, took me 50 years! Dec 31, 2023 5:58:34 GMT

Deleted: Hey guys, I’m 49 & from the UK here! Currently restoring/upgrading a Mazda MX5 Eunos Roadster. Got a lot of work to do 🤯😩🫣🤣 Jun 30, 2024 16:21:03 GMT

Simon: Nice and quiet in here, but I'm back with vengance! Car with a knackered crank is now having a full rust and engine resto at Basset Down! Will be spenny, but excited to have a 'good' car again. Jul 2, 2024 16:29:20 GMT

Post by fellows on Aug 14, 2023 14:59:46 GMT

Post by Crumpets on Aug 14, 2023 23:02:54 GMT

Post by fellows on Aug 15, 2023 4:25:44 GMT

Shoutbox