Sargent 328

Rather than repeat myself I suggest you read the third post in the thread linked below.

https://www.autosleeper-ownersforum.com/t36694-lithium-batteries?highlight=lithium+batteries

There was a software fault in the original EC328 control panel version 2.20 I think - if you installed a solar panel over 80 W the 12v tripped in bright sunlight. This fault was corrected with software version 2.22.

Just as catch up. Our Lithium battery suits our lifestyle. Wild camping like last night, no battery issues, used 52 amps by this morning. Now have the fixed roof PV and a portable PV panel re charging at 9 amps. Your question re gel battery. If you look on Amazon for Epever 10a you wil see the Controller that was in my Sargent EC328. Its cheap but very programmable but only for both batteries being the same chemistry. It’s all in the spec sheet. With my Lithium we charge while driving and if I’m on site power this provides the bulk charge while my Victron MPPT adds the float voltage from the PV. I also keep my lithium to about 95% charge.

You say you charge while driving  do you have B to B  ?.

The EC328 ( 2011 ) I can see about 5 amps while driving when I need power to the lithium battery. As the voltage goes higher the power will drop off. The spec for their intelligent charger is published. I will probably fit my 30 amp B2B as I can take that power no problem. I’ll do another test when driving, I can see  power on my shunt while driving.

Thanks for reply , do some research before fitting B t B to sargent 328 as their is a .loop problem ,caused by having the sargent and B t B charging  at the same time  ,sargent cannot easily be disconnected  as that circuit  runs fridge and step , I was told this by by a knowledgeable person ,not my own words ,

Thanks for that Molly3 I will have a chat with Sargent and Victron if I proceed, I have found both these companies very helpful with tech support.