Is it alright to connect a trickle charger (Ctek) without disconnecting the battery from the car? I just want the ability to be able to top-up the battery without any bother. Better still, if a trickle charger is OK to use is there a better place to use for the connection? (the Mercedes had designated points under the bonnet for a trickle charger).

I use a Ctek on my Focus RS - the battery remains connected and I've never had a problem. Never used it on the RRS, but it should be OK. My Ctek came with a lead with a socket on one end. I leave that permanently connected to the battery and just plug the charger in when I need to. 14.5MY SDV6 HSE Dynamic Indus silver/lunar/ebony 20" wheels, InControl, full-size spare, electric tow bar, adaptive xenons, adaptive cruise control, auto main beam assist. Gone: TDV8 HSE; Zermatt silver/ebony, 19" off road alloys, active diff, particle filter, tow pack (it was fun) BMW 730D SE (great car, sadly missed). Ford Focus RS mk2, Ultimate green, lux pack 2, bluetooth. The start of my mid-life crisis.
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Does this might help...?

http://www.rrsport.co.uk/forum/post204253.html#204253 Malaysia Boleh!
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I use a AccuMate 6V & 12V maintenance charger on my TDV8 RRS. I have used this unit on my last 4 cars including a P38, and a Disco 2.

I have the unit connected by Accumate’s plug and socket direct onto the battery terminals, which includes an in-line fuse.

As I work offshore for 5 weeks at a time, I leave this connected, to maintain the battery.

The unit isn’t a rapid charger. In fact it will not charge a flat battery. It does however monitor the battery, and just trickles as need be. It also includes many safety features to prevent over charging etc.

Oh by the way, I don’t have any ties with them, I’m just a satisfied customer.

Thanks for the information, I think I'll get a Ctek and use it if the battery gets low. Too many short journeys in winter puts too much strain on the battery.

Just a thought on this matter but does anyone have any experience of one of these???

http://www.care4car.com/productdisplay/pro...arger.html