Operation Manual

Electrical system
9
88 Caravan - 14-09 - EN
9.3 12 V power supply
When the caravan is not connected to the 240 V power supply, 12 V power supply
is performed either by the starter battery of the connected towing vehicle or by the
living area battery (Autark Package).
When the caravan is electrically connected to the towing vehicle and the vehicle
engine is running, the living area battery is charged by the vehicle generator.
The 12 V power supply can be cut off with the 12 V main switch on the panel (spe-
cial equipment).
9.3.1 Living area battery, general (Autark Package)
Z If you use the battery of the towing vehicle to provide power for the caravan,
bear in mind that the battery capacity is restricted. If you place too great a
burden on the battery, this may lead to starting difficulties.
Z Always disconnect the electrical connection between the towing vehicle and
the caravan before the caravan is connected to the local power supply. In order
to carry this out, disconnect the plug from towing vehicle socket.
Z Always disconnect the electrical connection between the towing vehicle and
the caravan before the living area battery is charged via an external charger.
Z To make the living area's electrical installation completely deenergised, pull out
the plug from the battery input "Batterie-Eingang" at the transformer/rectifier.
X When changing the living area battery, use only batteries which meet the
minimum capacity of the charger. Observe the separate instruction manual
for the charger. Lower-capacity batteries will generate a great deal of heat
when they are charged. Danger of explosion!
X Devices with a maximum of 10 A can be connected to the sockets of the 12 V
power supply. Fire hazard!
Z Use the charger module provided on the transformer/rectifier to charge the
living area battery. When charging externally, use a regulated charger that is
suitable for the battery type (a lead acid or dryfill battery) and the capacity of the
living area battery.
Z Prior to commencing a journey ensure the living area battery is fully charged.
For this reason charge the battery for at least 24 hours before commencing the
journey.
Z During the trip, use every opportunity to charge the living area battery.
Z Charge the living area battery for at least 24 hours after the journey.
Z Before a temporary lay-up charge the battery for at least 24 hours, for longer
standstills 48 hours.
Z For long periods of inactivity (4 weeks or more), either disconnect the living area
battery or recharge it regularly (charge for 24 hours at least every 12 weeks).
Z In winter store the charged battery in a place which is cool and protected from
frost and recharge every 12 weeks.
Z When the living area battery is changed, only use batteries of the same type.
Z Before disconnecting or connecting the terminals of the living area battery,
switch off the engine of the towing vehicle as well as the 240 V and 12 V power
supplies and all appliances. Danger of short circuit!