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[HVMoto]

I've read some posts on people creating extensions for easier access charging via the anderson connector, and it got me thinking about creating a primary/secondary cable to connect my bikes.

I have the tools and cabling to make a 4-5ft cable with anderson connectors on each end. My reasons for doing so are primarily based on having only one outlet available in my garage. Both bikes are the same model (2013 DSP) and have the same capacity batteries.

Any reasons why this couldn't/shouldn't be done?

[NEW2elec]

Do NOT do this!

I'll pass you off to MVetter he'll tell you what happens.

[MVetter]

If you're trying to go Aux to Aux there's a good chance the current inrush will cause fires and explosions. Try not to be anywhere nearby if you're going to detonate your bikes in this method as it will create many noxious fumes!

[TheRan]

Wouldn't it make more sense (and potentially actually work) to go from the aux connector to the IEC for the charger? Of course the even more logical solution would be to either install a second outlet in your garage or use a splitter.

[MVetter]

That would work if you knew for certain the OBC units Zero sourced double as DC-DC converters. Might work, might result in smoke and fire!

edit- I have been reached out to by a source I trust who confirms that Zero's onboard chargers do, in fact, double as DC-DC converters and this should work. Emphasis on should. I believe you indicated a Model Year '13 bike which means you've got Mean Wells on there. They're basically indestructible.

[TheRan]

Yeah I don't really know how the chargers work so just assumed they might be able to take DC. Tried looking it up but the unofficial no longer links to the product page. If not then a DC to AC converter could be used but no idea how costly they are for that voltage and wattage (most of the stuff I found was for 12V batteries).

[DerKrawallkeks]

Interesting question, but you can't go Aux to Aux.
Tells you the guy who connects solar panels directly to Aux.

Theoretically, aux to aux could work if the battery voltages are extremely well matched beforehand.
Of you only have one outlet, buy a multi socket thing, they're super cheap.

About DC charging using the stock chargers, this might be possible.. I put a regular smartphone charger on the Aux, to power my solar power tracker. Since the first thing they do is rectify anyway, and most of them work with 110V US electricity, it worked fine
Definitely don't do any of this! Bad idea

[HVMoto]

Thanks for all the quick replies!

I'm using an extension cord on one for now, so all good (except it's not taking a charge like the other - I'll explore that later).

I have Mean Wells (2S2P) on one for sure, it was a "non runner" so I decided to take it apart first (loads of additional wiring to remove), all 4 chargers appear to be working well.

Again, thank you, I've been reading posts here nightly since I purchased them and I appreciate all the knowledge I've received so far.

[HVMoto]

Question on avoiding current in rush (this moves away from the one outlet scenario). Looking closer at the Anderson connector I see two wires to pin 38 and 40 on MBB wrapped and labeled ACCY CHGR SIG TO MBB (see attached photo) and two (looks like 4awg) cables (positive appears fused) to the B+ and B- on the controller.

Is this a suitable input for a lower amperage DC source? Say, 2 external Mean Wells in series or a controlled low amp solar input (as was mentioned)?

I measure no voltage (at the connector or the controller) when not charging and a climbing voltage (to about 89 volts DC) after the onboard chargers are plugged in. Is this normal?

While one DS is showing 103.5 volts, the other is flashing red (low battery) at the BMS window and doesn't appear to be accepting a charge, even though the green charging light flashes on the display. Not knowing how long the battery has been in this state, I'd like to proceed carefully if attempting an alternative charging input, and also generally understand my recently adopted twins better.

[2020_SRS_Commuter]

I've read some posts on people creating extensions for easier access charging via the anderson connector, and it got me thinking about creating a primary/secondary cable to connect my bikes.

I have the tools and cabling to make a 4-5ft cable with anderson connectors on each end. My reasons for doing so are primarily based on having only one outlet available in my garage. Both bikes are the same model (2013 DSP) and have the same capacity batteries.

Any reasons why this couldn't/shouldn't be done?

Im no Zero scientist so my approach would be low tech and SAFE. One way you might do this is purchase a DC to AC converter. Plug the converter into the aux 12V of one bike, then plug the other bike to be charged into the converter. If the converter is  not drawing enough current to pop the fuse on the  bike providing the charge, that would work. You might want to get one of the "Pure Sine" type converters though... some of the cheap DC to AC have blocky square waves the onboard chargers might not like.