Victron Upgrade Series Part 1: Orion XS 50A DC-DC Charger Install

This upgrade will be completed in multiple phases. Over time, all, or at least most, of the coach battery system will be converted to Victron components, excluding the lithium batteries themselves. I am starting with the DC-DC charger. The wiring schematics remain the same. Check the SFK lithium battery installation on this link (click here).

The original 40-amp Renogy DC-DC charger has been replaced with a Victron Orion XS 50-amp DC-DC charger. For reference, you can view the original 40-amp Renogy DC-DC charger installation at this link (click here).

The DC-DC charger will remain in the same location, which required fabricating a new mounting system for the Orion. This time, the mount is designed in two pieces. The baseplate is secured to the firewall using three existing OEM bolt studs. A separate L-bracket holds the Orion and bolts to the baseplate, allowing for easy removal if needed.

DIY Spot Welder Using Two Microwave Power Transformers

⚠️ Important disclaimer (please read)

Disclaimer: This DIY involves very high-voltage transformers and wiring and could fatally electrocute you or someone else, start fires, or cause serious injury or property damage. This project is for entertainment/educational purposes only and does not endorse anyone attempting it. Do it at your own risk. If you are not experienced with mains electricity and transformer safety, stop now and buy a commercial spot welder or ask an experienced professional.

What this blog will (and won’t) do

What you’ll get here:

• A conceptual explanation of how to use two microwave power transformers (MOTs) to create a DIY spot welder.

• A general materials and tools list.

• Safety guidance and recommended protective measures.

• Alternatives that are much safer and often cheaper in the long run.

What I will not provide:

• Exact wiring diagrams or step-by-step instructions for modifying MOTs or wiring mains terminals in a way that could cause electrocution.

• Specific measurements, voltages, or instructions to bypass safety features on appliances.

• Anything that would knowingly enable unsafe modification of high-voltage equipment.

The working spot welder:

Starlink Mini DIY Battery Pack!

Take your Starlink Mini anywhere! This compact DIY battery pack keeps your Starlink online off-grid, perfect for RVs, camping, or emergency backup. Reliable, portable, and hassle-free… and best of all, you can build it for a fraction of the cost of commercial options!

If you’re not into the DIY option, Amazon sells various battery packs for the Starlink Mini. I’m not endorsing the product links below since I haven’t tried them, purchase with caution.

• LiFirst Starlink Mini Battery
• QUIDDITY Starlink Mini Battery Pack
• PeakDo LinkPower Power Bank Compatible with Starlink Mini
• E100 Starlink Mini Battery Pack with Charger
• Starlink Mini Mount, with Battery Pack 

On Sale! Flame King Refillable 1LB Empty Propane Cylinder Tank

 AMAZON DEAL FINDER!

Flame King Refillable 1LB Empty Propane Cylinder Tank On sale for $14.50 today, hurry this deals usually don't last long. I got same bottles 8 years ago for about $10 each. Regular price now is about $29/ tank.

You also need Flame King Propane Refill Fitting Adapter Valve for 1LB Camping Refillable Tank Cylinders.

Stand: Flame King Propane Refill Stand for 1LB Camping Refillable Tank Cylinders fits Standard 20Lb Propane Tanks

Refill Kit + 1-lb empty refillable tank: Flame King Refillable 1LB Empty Propane Cylinder Tank - with Refill Kit and CGA600 Connection

Mounting Starlink Mini on NCV3 Sprinter Dashboard

After brainstorming a variety of ways to mount the Starlink Mini on my Sprinter’s dashboard, I had two main goals: keep the dish securely in place during travel and make it easy to remove for repositioning—especially when the dashboard view is blocked by trees or other obstructions.

Finding the Right Spot

The dashboard top center cubby turned out to be the ideal mounting spot. However, it's partially covered by a front-facing plastic trim piece that must be removed to fit the Starlink dish. This piece is secured with screws hidden beneath the L-shaped vent trims, which requires first removing the radio surround to access. Be sure to disassemble the trim pieces in this order for proper removal.

Once cleared, the dish slotted in as if the space were made for it. It sits low and blends seamlessly with the dashboard, giving it a clean, factory-installed look—while also keeping a low profile to deter theft.

For step-by-step trim removal instructions, see this earlier post – click here.