Revision 4/1/21
All electric, delete the propane, is the trend
Actually, Sportsmobile has been converting travel vans with all electric systems for over 15 years. To do this we offer several different options • Auxiliary Battery Systems • Solar Panel Arrays • Generators – gas and diesel • Second Alternators for most vans. What do you need for your travels? See Heating/Cooling.
An Air Conditioner is by far the largest user of 110V power. If you want to run an A/C for long periods of time you’ll need one of the items below:
- A 110V Hook Up at a camp site, park at home, etc.
- A Second Alternator is available for most vans.
- A Generator, mounted inside or under the van.
- Portable gas 2000 watts or greater.
Second Alternator – Available All Vans
A Second Alternator (o) will provide an estimated additional 3,400 watts or 270 amps (max). This additional power will first fully charge your 12V Auxiliary Batteries you can also use your 2000W inverter or 2800w (o) for 110V power.(Second Alternator, Weights 20 lbs)
You will have plenty of 110V power for long periods of time for an A/C, microwave (o), water heater (o), and other items, not all at the same time. Plus power for your 12V refrigerator, lights and other items. Solar panels, Additional Auxiliary Batteries or higher capacity inverter are available.
Second Alternator / Generator – Pros & Cons
Second Alternator
- When idling the engine uses about 25% more diesel fuel compared to running a generator. In our opinion this is the only negative.
- Easier to operate
- Very quiet
- Less maintenance
- Does not take up any space under/inside the van
- More Dependable 12 & 110V power
Generator
- Cost more
- Weighs about 100-200 pounds more
- Requires more maintenance
- Is louder. A Second Alternator is quiet
- Has a larger foot print
- If mounted under the van the spare tire must be relocated, usually on a rear door.
Note: for some owners a generator may still be a better choice. Such as commercial use, van for dog shows, etc.
How do I order a Sprinter Second Alternator?
Your Sprinter Van Order Should Include:
- Second Alternator Factory Bracket ‘N62’ Est $600
If You Already Own a Sprinter
- A Second Alternator Bracket can be installed by Sportsmobile – Approx $1,800
Your Sportsmobile Conversion Should Include:
- Second Alternator Est $3,500
Sprinter Dual Alternator Kit with 280XP Amp AlternatorSprinter Van 2007 • 3.0L Diesel
Propane Tank & Stove Deletion
Propane system negatives • No propane tank to fill • Some tunnels and ferries have propane restrictions • Greener • Less Weight • No van exterior cuts • No need to turn propane valve on/off • less maintenance.
What are some propane appliance alternatives? Prices are approximate.
Electric 110V • Generator • Second Alternator vans
- Microwave $250
- Microwave/Convection $600
- Portable Stove $60
- Stove-Induction Cooktop – Single Burner $500
- Double Burner $800, fast to heat up. Energy efficient. Cool to touch.
- Water Heater $1000 – Recommended 2.5G model.No van side vent, easy operation and winterization. 1/2 the weight and size of a Propane Heater.
- Electric Space Heater – $50
Diesel Engine Vans
- Diesel Furnace – Espar Airtonic $4,200 with high altitude kit. Very energy efficient. Weight and size about 1/2 of Propane Furnace.
Diesel/110
- Furnace & Water Heater – Espar Hydronic $8,000 very energy efficient. 1/2 size and weight of propane. The Water Heater continuously heats hot water with no water tank. Also has 110v air and water heater.
Note: Diesel powered appliances use fuel from the diesel van’s fuel tank, no need to find a propane station. They cost about twice propane-powered appliances. However, over the long haul, you will save money as they are more efficient and require less maintenance. Plus they are about 1/2 the size and weight of propane appliances.