You have a couple of decision points here. One of them is upgrading to a LifePo4 battery, excellent choice and prices are coming down. Second should be to upgrade your solar panels and since you live in sunny CA, this is highly recommended (200w). Third is whether or not to do a DC-to-DC charger (which will eliminate the isolator you have now btw). The rest of it is just picking out the best components.
I did the whole shebang last year except the DC/DC charger. The cost and complexity of DC/DC was a bit out of reach at the time. Instead I utilized the existing wiring so that if something went wrong with my LifePo4 battery I can easily disconnect it and connect the camper to the truck battery in a pinch. I can also charge the truck battery with the solar panels. So, I basically have a backup plan if something breaks in the LifePo4, which btw was what I thought was most likely. I live in sunny CO and most of my travel is in the sunbelt states so solar is king. If I lived in the PNW I would add DC/DC for sure.
Thanks BlueSky -
1, 200 W panel is what I was thinking of putting on the roof. Brand/model recommendations welcomed.
I like the simplicity of bypassing the battery isolator all together but at some point I will want to have the capability of charging from the truck battery/alternator as an option. I would like to be able to have it switched and not on the the ignition circuit at all. That would give me peace of mind that I am protecting the alternator. Not a high priority for me this year, next year possibly.
I have the 100W Lifepo4 battery in a box ready to go. Just need to get the other components and decide if I really want to try this myself or seek professional installation help.
Question - How do you charge the truck battery with the solar panel?
Thanks again,
Mike