 | Home > Maintenance & Modifications > Adding external battery points to easily charge the battery |
 
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| macfrank Member Since: 05 Nov 2015 Location: somewhere in the north Posts: 1118   
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I have the CTEK installed inside, connected to the battery using the above mentioned CTEK indicator plugs. Mains is fed in through a Defa plug and Socket.
This is sufficient for the intended amperage. The terminals in your inital post may be needed for jump starting and the 50A Andersons are also good for charging a Lithium battery at higher currents.  Click image to enlarge Click image to enlarge Click image to enlarge |
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18th May 2025 2:17pm |
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| Vitesse Member Since: 21 Mar 2014 Location: Sussex Posts: 394  
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I tow a Penman trailer and use the Nato socket. This has a 12volt supply as part of the wiring. So this is very useful to use with a dedicated plug connected to a CTEK. Works well for me but appreciate is a large job on its own.
Click image to enlarge 2015 90 XS Santorini Black |
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20th May 2025 1:05pm |
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| Ianh Member Since: 17 Sep 2018 Location: Essex Posts: 2364
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Using the tow socket s a very elegant solution. The only downside is it leaves the CTEK and the 240v mains supply in the elements and vulnerable to theft if used on a drive etc , i.e not in a locked garage.
Regarding being in the elements. Sure you can buy IP rated boxes to put plugs and CTEK in, place under vehicle etc, but it does add more cost and completely. |
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20th May 2025 2:17pm |
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| Trev Member Since: 01 Jul 2023 Location: Fife Posts: 16  
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I fitted one of these into the passenger side seat box and just close the door on the wires when the charger is connected. Work fine without causing any damage to the door seals.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Anderson-Connecto...B0D5HRV65X |
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31st May 2025 11:21pm |
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| M94PUMA Member Since: 16 Dec 2016 Location: Hampshire Posts: 160 
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I wanted one externally so could connect a Ctek charger whilst the vehicle is locked & alarmed and maintain a trickle charge etc.
Fitted on the front of the battery box, tuck up high enough not to be ripped off by anything. Out of sight as it’s hidden by the side sills. Although I’ve fitted it and it works perfectly, I’ve never actually needed to use it. But least I can charge it if I ever needed to 
My TD5 90 will sit for 6 weeks quite happily and not drop charge even with a tracker hardwired. Click image to enlarge |
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1st Jun 2025 10:15am |
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| WestCountryPete Member Since: 30 Sep 2023 Location: Wiltshire Posts: 44 
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I used the ctek to 13 pin adapter so I charge using the towing socket. Worked OK so far for me. As nobody else has mentioned it, I’m now wondering if there’s a reason I shouldn’t be
Click image to enlarge |
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4th Jun 2025 7:32pm |
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| M94PUMA Member Since: 16 Dec 2016 Location: Hampshire Posts: 160
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Yeah they work fine, charged my l405 Range Rover the exact same way through the 13pin for years.
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4th Jun 2025 7:36pm |
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| andy63 Member Since: 30 Jun 2023 Location: north east Posts: 750
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As long as the max charging current of the charger you use is compatible with the existing circut you are using it won't be a problem
Installing your own dedicated socket and wiring will allow for larger chargers and charging current if its required.. |
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4th Jun 2025 8:38pm |
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| M94PUMA Member Since: 16 Dec 2016 Location: Hampshire Posts: 160
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Yes absolutely, best to check what your wiring is rated for.
If I remember rightly ctek quick connect cables are rated for 10amp, so their chargers will be putting out less than that. Most 13pin trailer wiring is 20amp or 30amp max load I think? |
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4th Jun 2025 9:23pm |
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| LR Nuts Member Since: 10 Aug 2022 Location: UK Posts: 1267 
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Click image to enlarge I too used the Anderson connector method. can be used for charging and jumping. (not at the same time) |
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5th Jun 2025 8:25am |
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