Just joined

[Living the dream]

Bought a 9 year old California 2 weeks ago. We believe it will be great for the two of us and the our two dogs (a large Labrador and a really mischievous Jack Russell mix).

Our California has some issues (private sale, bought at seen) but we are really pleased to have the van, sure we will fix the issues, and get years of use…

 

[Perfectos]

Bought a 9 year old California 2 weeks ago. We believe it will be great for the two of us and the our two dogs (a large Labrador and a really mischievous Jack Russell mix).

Our California has some issues (private sale, bought at seen) but we are really pleased to have the van, sure we will fix the issues, and get years of use…

L T D,

congrats,

I’m sure the collective knowledge of the forum can help with any issues your having with the Cali.

ask away ?

 

[Living the dream]

Hi thanks for the welcome. Our prime concern is that the leisure batteries are not charging. We replaced them but only afterwards realised that no power was getting to them either from the alternator or from the mains.

 

[kurienp]

Hi thanks for the welcome. Our prime concern is that the leisure batteries are not charging. We replaced them but only afterwards realised that no power was getting to them either from the alternator or from the mains.

Welcome on board @Living the dream .

After 9 years, good to have changed the battery as that then has taken care of any possible battery related issues.

One of the first fuses to check is the one on top of the leisure battery. Time to take out the leisure battery in the rear cupboard and check the fuse on there.

There are fuse diagrams available in the files section. It is a very useful resource.

It will take you a few months to get to know the van and all its foibles and then you will feel more comfortable with what is happening and what the van is doing.

 

[kurienp]

pics of the control panel when engine running and when on hookup may also give some clues on the next steps.

 

[Perfectos]

Undoubtedly fuse relate.

Another place to check fuses in below the engine battery, these are the main fuses for the vehicle I.e before power is distributed to the lesuire circuits.
also under passenger seat which is a 50a fuse

there are vehicle specific wiring diagrams in the VIP section, available to download.

@Loz & @WelshGas are the resident go to for these types of faults on an SE.

 

[WelshGas]

Hi thanks for the welcome. Our prime concern is that the leisure batteries are not charging. We replaced them but only afterwards realised that no power was getting to them either from the alternator or from the mains.

When plugged into Mains Hookup, do you have a mains supply on the kitchen mains socket?
If not check that the RCD switch, just above the gas holder is in the correct position.
If you do have mains power on the kitchen socket, check that the mains lead, black kettle type plug, is plugged in properly to the charger. On a 2012 vehicle the charger should be above the rear leisure battery in the base of the rear wardrobe. If not it is below the fridge, access through the L kitchen cupboard.
With regards to alternator charging, check the large brown 80 amp fuse under the front passenger seat. Turn seat sideways and slide backwards for good access.
If that fuse is OK check engine compartment fuses. Diagrams in the Forum Resources section for VIP members.
Would be a good idea to get a multimeter for checking fuses and voltages.

 

[Graham T]

 

[Living the dream]

Thanks for the quick updates. I have been able to check off a few items though I haven’t found some fuses yet, will have to return to it later today.

So far:
*Kitchen mains socket does get power
*The lead into the charger does feel secure (the charger is under the body of the fridge)
*80 amp fuse is OK
*Fuse on top of the second leisure battery is OK
*Engine battery receives power from the alternator (12.7V across the battery when the engine is stopped, 14.2V engine running).

 

[Perfectos]

when on hook up 240v hook up check both leisure batteries are receiving a charge: both , one or none?