We're interested in buying a second hand 420 to replace our '83 Familia , as we need a loo and longer beds - the joys of old age! Seen a good one but it was EHU only, and we've since been told a 420 with EHU and battery power might be hard to come by. We do a fair amount of off grid , so battery power is a must. Has anyone out there added battery power to a 420 and if so was it easy? Or even better- got one for sale?!!! Cheers wooddude

If you had to fit your own battery system I'd be inclined to fit what is supplied with a new van:

* A Schaudt CS409A batter charger (with solar input if needed - useful if off grid for a long time: €250 plus shipping/taxes)
* A Varta LA95 battery (£200)
* A 50A Fuse/holder (£5)
* A 100A isolator switch (£6)

Above are guide prices - you can always buy cheaper of course

You'd then need to connect the 7/13 pin connector to the CSV409A and then wire all your 12V equipment. The Schaudt would handle the split charging from the car battery if your fridge has 12V capability

If you've done wiring before, its straightforward. If not, dont try it without someone knowledgeable around to guide/advise/check

PS The Schaudt also has a battery boost function to handle the various voltage outputs from cars including newer high output alternators and has a DIP switch to switch between lead acid and Gel/AGM depending on which battery you fit.

I would think it depends what age of van you are looking to buy, most post 2012 UK spec Eribas will have the Autonomy pack fitted as standard (with the battery), there is a possibility an import Eriba may not have had one fitted.

I had a 1994 Puck which had a battery retro fitted by someone else.

Most post 2000 Eriba Tourings have a battery and charger fitted. It is still a cost option on new vans. You'll find factory fitted Autark/Autonomy systems, aftermarket dealer/mobile tech fitted systems and DIY jobs. So all sorts of different gear and fittings. A hot water boiler is rarer than battery and charger.

Not quite right, Most British supplied vans have a battery, but most continental supplied vans don't, and there are a lot of private imports out there.
Dave

Quote: eribanaut wrote in post #6

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Not quite right, Most British supplied vans have a battery, but most continental supplied vans don't, and there are a lot of private imports out there.
Dave

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Thanks for all your comments and ideas. We are going to carry on looking for an older model, pre 2020 and see what comes along. In the meantime we'll carry on enjoying our old faithful 1983 Famillia !