I was wondering if you may be able to help me with something. I've recently purchased our first caravan (old franklin as a starter). I was wondering if you may know what to expect (in terms of price) to install a redarc DC-DC charger, Deep Cell battery, and anderson plug (both tow vehicle and caravan) including wiring and parts and two double DC sockets?
> I feel I have had a bad experience with a repairer/electrician and want to check if the price is reasonable before proceeding as it also appears that work they have invoiced for has not been done. Hoping you may be able to help with an understanding of what cost to expect for this kind of install.
Barboots said
09:56 AM Sep 8, 2017
Due to the potential variances between jobs of the same spec, I'd suggest having someone check over it for you. If you advise your area, maybe someone with auto electrical experience could offer you an hour to look over it?
NewVanner said
10:20 AM Sep 8, 2017
Thanks. I was quoted $1600 which included the charger and battery as well. This also included repairing the windows which they valued at $330 and fitting a new outdoor light. They made a big pitch to tell me it was a great deal and they shouldn't be doing it so cheap. I had the work the work done however they have not repaired the windows or fitted the outdoor light. They spent more time trying to tell me how cheap they did the charger and battery install for and then told me that it was too much work to complete the windows and fit an outside light despite quoting me on it. They're still attempting to invoice the full $1600. I believe this is based upon them telling me the electrical work was worth more yet it just doesn't sit right with me. I now have to spend $150 on parts for the windows and repair them myself and I still don't have an exterior light on 12volt.
Barboots said
11:03 AM Sep 8, 2017
I'd be happy to cast my eye over it if you are in Perth metro. You might find that you can get similar offers if you're elsewhere.
For what it's worth, I'd only be paying the "total quote minus window component"... unless the supplier can demonstrate a valid reason for increasing the charge for the electrical work.
Muzzlehatch said
11:54 AM Sep 8, 2017
It really isnt that difficult of a job. Have you considered doing it yourself. The window repair would be much more challenging.
NewVanner said
02:19 PM Sep 8, 2017
Thanks again for the replies. I'm in Melbourne. I'm not too electrical savvy hence why I sought someone to do the work. It wasn't until after I agreed that I started to feel it wasn't quite right. I've got the van back but am yet to pay the invoice. I'm trying to establish what a fair outcome would be. I think, asylu said, just pay minus the work that wasn't completed and be done with it.
Terryt said
03:04 PM Sep 8, 2017
Redarc unit $400 $500. Battery $400. Heavy duty cable is expensive. Labour at least $100 per hour. Genuine Anderson plugs are about $15 each. Work it out. I suspect if you take out the amount they allowed for the window you did get a pretty good deal.
swamp said
03:46 PM Sep 8, 2017
hi Projecta dc2dc 25amp $300 Redarc 25amp dctdc 100$ more Battery 120ah agm $300-400 cable $ 150 2 x 12v sockets $40 Labour wire car and van dc to dc in van consumables fuses heat shrink connectors etc etc $100
There is a healthy margin in the parts sparky bits have always been overpriced if people only new.
900 parts 1 days labour =80$ per hr,,, $650 1550.oo plus GST
Typical to keen to upsell then under quote and don't do jobs to claw back some money. The above job price is reasonable but the quote should have been itemized xxxfor electrics xxx window xxx light Not delivering what they promised and you have been quoted in writing is deceiving !!!!!
Seen this before in many trades its F`n pathetic gives good tradesman a bad name .
-- Edited by swamp on Friday 8th of September 2017 03:48:43 PM
-- Edited by swamp on Friday 8th of September 2017 03:50:18 PM
Cupie said
05:19 PM Sep 8, 2017
swamp wrote:
hi Projecta dc2dc 25amp $300 Redarc 25amp dctdc 100$ more Battery 120ah agm $300-400 cable $ 150 2 x 12v sockets $40 Labour wire car and van dc to dc in van consumables fuses heat shrink connectors etc etc $100
There is a healthy margin in the parts sparky bits have always been overpriced if people only new.
900 parts 1 days labour =80$ per hr,,, $650 1550.oo plus GST
Typical to keen to upsell then under quote and don't do jobs to claw back some money. The above job price is reasonable but the quote should have been itemized xxxfor electrics xxx window xxx light Not delivering what they promised and you have been quoted in writing is deceiving !!!!!
Seen this before in many trades its F`n pathetic gives good tradesman a bad name .
-- Edited by swamp on Friday 8th of September 2017 03:48:43 PM
-- Edited by swamp on Friday 8th of September 2017 03:50:18 PM
That seems to be about right.
Just finished wiring the GQ Patrol but without the DC DC charger at the moment.
I just used a vehicle mounted, accessory switched 30a fused relay (cost about $6 for two .. gotta have a spare hey).
If SWMBO decides she likes free camping I'll update to a DC DC charger in the van with Solar input & a new battery.
BTW I got 8m of 6 SWG wire for around $75 with 2 Anderson plugs thrown in. From Big Al I think.
NewVanner said
06:44 PM Sep 8, 2017
Thanks for this reply.
"Typical to keen to upsell then under quote and don't do jobs to claw back some money.
The above job price is reasonable but the quote should have been itemized xxxfor electrics xxx window xxx light Not delivering what they promised and you have been quoted in writing is deceiving !!!!!
Seen this before in many trades its F`n pathetic gives good tradesman a bad name ."
Basically sums up how ive felt about it well. They've under quoted as an attempt to get my business, then tried to regroup some money by taking other shortcuts. However, that doesn't change the fact that now im left with work that hasnt been done and a sour taste about the service, particularly as they did itemise the invoice which includes ($330 for the windows and $45 for an outdoor strip light), as for the rest I had no way of telling if the price was reasonable or not, which it now appears it may be. In recognising them underselling it, I'm trying to find a reasonable medium to resolve.
Muzzlehatch said
10:31 PM Sep 8, 2017
I disagree. IMHO a gob of spit on the hand followed by a firm handshake is the best way to do business with someone who has the skills that you don't and will keep you as a customer for ever. Whenever I was working my trade that was the ethos I brought to it.
Two problems with such operators. 1. You gotta book ahead. 2. They aint easy to find. They don't advertise.
I dont want to blow smoke up your arse but I would almost be happy to consult on the job via teleconfrence.
Trouble is Muzzlehatch is just another blow hard who you don't know and who has more expertise than a bull can ****.
Dude ... dont pay that Bill. You sound like a gentleman and I fear that prick is trying to take advantage of your ethical integrity.
Kindest
Muzz.
macka17 said
10:35 PM Sep 8, 2017
I took the chance, to update my lighting.
2 x 130w panels on roof in leiu of Dc\DC.($130 each, del.)
85Ah "Giant" AGM $260, They have good name.
Used LED 1 mtr strip lights on roof instead of original 12v round lights
Plus under side cupboards for reading.
Left the old lights there to cover holes..
5 mtr strip under roll out outside, wired into where the original outside light goes.
Dead simple. 200% better lighting.
You DON'T need the huge battery's with LED. (They use milliamps)
DC\DC are wayy overrated. you have to run veh anyway.
Panels work all daylight hrs.
a 25\40a AC Charger will boost everything when on mains.
A small 1kva Chinese genny will run them anywhere. (I have 3.8kva for home)
PLUS. runs any electric tools you need to use in the bush.
It happens. Specially with older vans.
Window. You can do them.
They both easy. and messy.
Winders, lock levers.
Just unscrew\drill out rivets. and lead them out\in with new.
Re rivet.
Replacement. I've done at least half a doz.
Have plenty of rags. Acetone. and coupla Stanley knife blades.
Philips\flat bladed s'drivers.
Remove screws. Slip knife along seam. Push flat s\driver in there.
Lead with knife force with driver.
It'll come.
Replace epair.
clean all gunk off. replace.Whatever.
You can buy the sticky seam tape from most van dealers.
I have a coupla lengths in garage here.
Apply to internal lip of frame.
Offer to van. coupla top screws in.
That'll hold it while you get the rest in.
Just have a coupla stable stools, 3 step ladders to work on.
Patience. and you'll surprise yourself. truly.
Muzzlehatch said
11:13 PM Sep 8, 2017
Further thoughts. Do you know I have met so many Guys who give up a hectic life as a Sheep ****y to retire into a hobby business where they can stretch out and chill out only to find the "folly" is far more lucrative and busier than the original "hard grind" .
Refer for Field Tests of the Muzzlehatchian Theorem to; http://www.ironbarkbrewery.com.au/ Sunday Afternoon the vocalist Dove ... has a voice like and angel , and right next door ...just googed it now called https://www.funkcider.com.au/ . Mind you I havent been to either venue for a few months. I need to verify Ops Normal. They used to be awesome. I need to recheck those destinations to make sure they haven't gone to pot.
But I DIGRESS.
I am very tempted to up-skill a bit . My truck is already and Electronic Workshop for my hobbies. I would need to do a bit of research into auto body work etc. I have actually built bus coach work back in the Proterozoic.. I could do awesome custom trouble shooting and wild Electronics. Right there in the layby.
Only thing. I am gonna hurk up and wurk up the writhingest greenest stinkingest big gob of putrefaction to expectorate on my palm before I ever place it upon your lilly white limp flapping flipper.. You need to start off hating my guts and expecting nothing but trouble.
Remember my background is Geology and Electronics . You trifle with me over a cash deal then Good luck with that you smart city bastard ; My Earth Sciences contacts. You messed with the wrong Retiree. Carbon Monoxide efulgences. Sulpher Dioxode fountains. Pyroclastics downpourings. And that is only for starters. You wait till you hear from my credit controller. She is ISO 9002 8.7 calibrated on the Richter Scale.
She sits in a plush leather lounge stroking a bandicoot. "Ah Mr Creditor ..We meet at last."
Muzz
NewVanner said
11:14 PM Sep 8, 2017
So it's settled. Based upon some comments re the cost of electrics install, it seems they have prob charged a reasonable amount for the electrics. The windows needed new arms/stays which was not done, however they did complete a couple of small odd jobs so I paid all except what it will cost me in parts to replace the stays on the window. Needless to say though, I won't be going back. Bummed I have no 12volt light out front though. I reckon it'll be too tough to run the wiring for the 12volt to outside but could run a portable led flood into the dc socket when needed. Otherwise I might explore hijacking the 240volt wores (just need to find them) and run it to the battery instead.
So it's settled. Based upon some comments re the cost of electrics install, it seems they have prob charged a reasonable amount for the electrics. The windows needed new arms/stays which was not done, however they did complete a couple of small odd jobs so I paid all except what it will cost me in parts to replace the stays on the window. Needless to say though, I won't be going back. Bummed I have no 12volt light out front though. I reckon it'll be too tough to run the wiring for the 12volt to outside but could run a portable led flood into the dc socket when needed. Otherwise I might explore hijacking the 240volt wores (just need to find them) and run it to the battery instead.
Muzzlehatch said
11:30 PM Sep 8, 2017
In the absence of any other information and given the diagnostic information hereto fore described I would suggest you don't do a damn thing.
Buy a dozen "aaa" torches from china and scatter then through your "trailer" like confetty. Down load the noisiest and most adolescent music to your media centre. Buy a few boxes of Vietnameese Coffee 3 x Instant and, as we, Geophysicists use the technical term "Bugger off " into the Sunset ( An Astrophyisist's term) bashing your head on the Instrument Panel (an Aviators Term) to the singing and throbbing to the beat of The Cramps .....
Aloha from Hell ..
Muzz
sandman55 said
06:18 PM Sep 9, 2017
I've recently fitted a Redarc DC to DC charger to my new van and you pay a bit more for Redarc than some others and some models are very pricey You should get the model he put in and do a search on EBay I recomment this guy http://www.ebay.com.au/usr/autoelecau?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2754 mine was a Redarc BCDC1225LV and it cost me $365.
In SA if we get a bad deal we contact consumer affairs for advice, I imagine you would have a similar government body in Victoria. The main thing is what he has given you in writing if you can go back at him.
Warren-Pat_01 said
11:02 PM Sep 9, 2017
Hi Damien,
Here in Townsville there are several WOM (word of mouth) networks running. I'd suggest there were would be similar in your area. WOM works well - if someone does a good job, people talk well of them & they are run off their feet; if not, they don't get any more work.
One suggestion would be to ask at a local caravan spare parts company or a dealer & ask for suggestions as to who to approach for future work - then get a couple of quotes.
Warren
Muzzlehatch said
01:01 AM Sep 10, 2017
Correct. Here in Perth we have a Truck guy who wont "ripp your flesh" . He does RV and busses. All the smart money goes his way and he needs to be treated with respect. You need to book ahead or if you are stroppy best you take you business elsewhere.
Orong Truck Sevices. The proprietors name is Kieth and he is Scots.
databoomer said
01:19 PM Sep 19, 2017
Gday from Perth,
Have you thought about a solar powered stand alone light that you could fix to the outside of your van?
Go to Ebay and type : Solar Power Sensor Wall Light Security Motion Weatherproof Outdoor Lamp
hi
Projecta dc2dc 25amp $300 Redarc 25amp dctdc 100$ more
Battery 120ah agm $300-400
cable $ 150
2 x 12v sockets $40
Labour
wire car and van
dc to dc in van
consumables fuses heat shrink connectors etc etc $100
There is a healthy margin in the parts sparky bits have always been overpriced if people only new.
900 parts
1 days labour =80$ per hr,,, $650
1550.oo plus GST
Typical to keen to upsell then under quote and don't do jobs to claw back some money.
The above job price is reasonable but the quote should have been itemized xxxfor electrics xxx window xxx light
Not delivering what they promised and you have been quoted in writing is deceiving !!!!!
Seen this before in many trades its F`n pathetic gives good tradesman a bad name .
-- Edited by swamp on Friday 8th of September 2017 03:48:43 PM
-- Edited by swamp on Friday 8th of September 2017 03:50:18 PM
That seems to be about right.
Just finished wiring the GQ Patrol but without the DC DC charger at the moment.
I just used a vehicle mounted, accessory switched 30a fused relay (cost about $6 for two .. gotta have a spare hey).
If SWMBO decides she likes free camping I'll update to a DC DC charger in the van with Solar input & a new battery.
BTW I got 8m of 6 SWG wire for around $75 with 2 Anderson plugs thrown in. From Big Al I think.
Thanks for this reply.
"Typical to keen to upsell then under quote and don't do jobs to claw back some money.
The above job price is reasonable but the quote should have been itemized xxxfor electrics xxx window xxx light
Not delivering what they promised and you have been quoted in writing is deceiving !!!!!
Seen this before in many trades its F`n pathetic gives good tradesman a bad name ."
Basically sums up how ive felt about it well. They've under quoted as an attempt to get my business, then tried to regroup some money by taking other shortcuts. However, that doesn't change the fact that now im left with work that hasnt been done and a sour taste about the service, particularly as they did itemise the invoice which includes ($330 for the windows and $45 for an outdoor strip light), as for the rest I had no way of telling if the price was reasonable or not, which it now appears it may be. In recognising them underselling it, I'm trying to find a reasonable medium to resolve.
I disagree. IMHO a gob of spit on the hand followed by a firm handshake is the best way to do business with someone who has the skills that you don't and will keep you as a customer for ever. Whenever I was working my trade that was the ethos I brought to it.
Two problems with such operators. 1. You gotta book ahead. 2. They aint easy to find. They don't advertise.
I dont want to blow smoke up your arse but I would almost be happy to consult on the job via teleconfrence.
Trouble is Muzzlehatch is just another blow hard who you don't know and who has more expertise than a bull can ****.
Dude ... dont pay that Bill. You sound like a gentleman and I fear that prick is trying to take advantage of your ethical integrity.
Kindest
Muzz.
2 x 130w panels on roof in leiu of Dc\DC.($130 each, del.)
85Ah "Giant" AGM $260, They have good name.
Used LED 1 mtr strip lights on roof instead of original 12v round lights
Plus under side cupboards for reading.
Left the old lights there to cover holes..
5 mtr strip under roll out outside, wired into where the original outside light goes.
Dead simple. 200% better lighting.
You DON'T need the huge battery's with LED. (They use milliamps)
DC\DC are wayy overrated. you have to run veh anyway.
Panels work all daylight hrs.
a 25\40a AC Charger will boost everything when on mains.
A small 1kva Chinese genny will run them anywhere. (I have 3.8kva for home)
PLUS. runs any electric tools you need to use in the bush.
It happens. Specially with older vans.
Window. You can do them.
They both easy. and messy.
Winders, lock levers.
Just unscrew\drill out rivets. and lead them out\in with new.
Re rivet.
Replacement. I've done at least half a doz.
Have plenty of rags. Acetone. and coupla Stanley knife blades.
Philips\flat bladed s'drivers.
Remove screws. Slip knife along seam. Push flat s\driver in there.
Lead with knife force with driver.
It'll come.
Replace
epair.
clean all gunk off. replace.Whatever.
You can buy the sticky seam tape from most van dealers.
I have a coupla lengths in garage here.
Apply to internal lip of frame.
Offer to van. coupla top screws in.
That'll hold it while you get the rest in.
Just have a coupla stable stools, 3 step ladders to work on.
Patience. and you'll surprise yourself. truly.
Further thoughts. Do you know I have met so many Guys who give up a hectic life as a Sheep ****y to retire into a hobby business where they can stretch out and chill out only to find the "folly" is far more lucrative and busier than the original "hard grind" .
Refer for Field Tests of the Muzzlehatchian Theorem to; http://www.ironbarkbrewery.com.au/ Sunday Afternoon the vocalist Dove ... has a voice like and angel , and right next door ...just googed it now called https://www.funkcider.com.au/ . Mind you I havent been to either venue for a few months. I need to verify Ops Normal. They used to be awesome. I need to recheck those destinations to make sure they haven't gone to pot.
But I DIGRESS.
I am very tempted to up-skill a bit . My truck is already and Electronic Workshop for my hobbies. I would need to do a bit of research into auto body work etc. I have actually built bus coach work back in the Proterozoic.. I could do awesome custom trouble shooting and wild Electronics. Right there in the layby.
Only thing. I am gonna hurk up and wurk up the writhingest greenest stinkingest big gob of putrefaction to expectorate on my palm before I ever place it upon your lilly white limp flapping flipper.. You need to start off hating my guts and expecting nothing but trouble.
Remember my background is Geology and Electronics . You trifle with me over a cash deal then Good luck with that you smart city bastard ; My Earth Sciences contacts. You messed with the wrong Retiree. Carbon Monoxide efulgences. Sulpher Dioxode fountains. Pyroclastics downpourings. And that is only for starters. You wait till you hear from my credit controller. She is ISO 9002 8.7 calibrated on the Richter Scale.
She sits in a plush leather lounge stroking a bandicoot. "Ah Mr Creditor ..We meet at last."
Muzz
macka17 > Wot He said !!
In the absence of any other information and given the diagnostic information hereto fore described I would suggest you don't do a damn thing.
Buy a dozen "aaa" torches from china and scatter then through your "trailer" like confetty. Down load the noisiest and most adolescent music to your media centre. Buy a few boxes of Vietnameese Coffee 3 x Instant and, as we, Geophysicists use the technical term "Bugger off " into the Sunset ( An Astrophyisist's term) bashing your head on the Instrument Panel (an Aviators Term) to the singing and throbbing to the beat of The Cramps .....
Aloha from Hell ..
Muzz
I've recently fitted a Redarc DC to DC charger to my new van and you pay a bit more for Redarc than some others and some models are very pricey You should get the model he put in and do a search on EBay I recomment this guy http://www.ebay.com.au/usr/autoelecau?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2754 mine was a Redarc BCDC1225LV and it cost me $365.
In SA if we get a bad deal we contact consumer affairs for advice, I imagine you would have a similar government body in Victoria. The main thing is what he has given you in writing if you can go back at him.
Here in Townsville there are several WOM (word of mouth) networks running. I'd suggest there were would be similar in your area. WOM works well - if someone does a good job, people talk well of them & they are run off their feet; if not, they don't get any more work.
One suggestion would be to ask at a local caravan spare parts company or a dealer & ask for suggestions as to who to approach for future work - then get a couple of quotes.
Warren
Correct. Here in Perth we have a Truck guy who wont "ripp your flesh" . He does RV and busses. All the smart money goes his way and he needs to be treated with respect. You need to book ahead or if you are stroppy best you take you business elsewhere.
Orong Truck Sevices. The proprietors name is Kieth and he is Scots.
Gday from Perth,
Have you thought about a solar powered stand alone light that you could fix to the outside of your van?
Go to Ebay and type : Solar Power Sensor Wall Light Security Motion Weatherproof Outdoor Lamp