Hi. my Laptop just died in middle of my post (Think the shoemaker's shoeless children...)
Question.
The 2008 OEM battery on our 36 ft DRV Mobile suites battery just died. Totally
As we are going to need to increase capacity at some point for dry-camping/boondocking and/or Solar, should we:
A) Just replace the 2 6 volt Ford Motorcraft deep cycle batteries with one 12 volt deep cycle? B) replace the 2 6 V batteries with two 6 V ATM ones. c) ReplACE THE 2 6 VOLTS WITH two other 6 volt deep cycles.
Only asking because at some point we know we will need to expand/extend our battery array.
(and we know that it's the battery, because there's no 12v on the fridge when we try to use the LP, and the tech here to work\ on the slideout agreed. \ Augh. Trials and tribulations, it's all to be expected.
any ideas on brands, or types?
Terry and Jo said
01:25 PM Jul 8, 2014
Mitch,
I'm presuming that the tech checked each battery to verify they were dead. The reason I bring that up is because there is a switch on our 2010 Mobile Suites that is for the 12-volt system. It is located in the same compartment with the switches to operate the jacks and Level-Up hydraulic system. So, first of all, check that switch.
Secondly, I'd suggest staying with two 6-volt batteries. You might also consider AGM style as they are maintenance-free from what I've read on the forums. Also, if you are planning on a lot of boondocking, with the possibility of getting an inverter, you might consider having two extra batteries installed as well. Talk with someone knowledgeable about inverters so that they can suggest a location where two of your batteries are close to the inverter. On our 2010, we ordered ours with a 3000 watt pure sine wave inverter and 4 batteries. The factory built in a second compartment on the opposite side of the front storage access door to accommodate the batteries and then installed the inverter on top of that same compartment for the batteries.
Terry
bigboomer said
02:02 PM Jul 8, 2014
Mitch,
As Terry noted if you plan on upgrading down the line, make the investment now and get the AGM's. They are maintenance free and can be used in a closed compartment without venting if necessary. There are several brands from high end to lower end. I set our system up with Concorde Sunextender AGM's which is the sister company to the top of the line Lifeline Batteries. There are also other brands such as US Battery and Fullriver. We preferred to use a USA made battery.
Shop around as you can get some good deals from different sources, especially some of the solar suppliers such as Northern Arizona Wind and Sun http://www.solar-electric.com/ and AM Solar http://amsolar.com/ .
Like Terry indicated above, the consensus of RVers in the know seems to be the use of 6 volt AGM batteries as the best setup for boondocking RVs.
I have not changed over to 6 volt batteries but would if we did more boondocking for longer periods of time. Currently we boondock for a week or two and have found our current setup works to meet our needs.
I have two 12v deep cycle batteries (DieHards) that power our 12v house needs. I have another two 12v deep cycle batteries (DieHards) that power our inverter so we can use the TVs, sat box, laptops and recharge phones...etc. I have two 2000i Honda Generators with the parallel kit that we can run if need to use the air conditioner or just use a single generator to charge batteries and run the microwave, coffee pot, other appliances plus the TVs, sat box, laptops and recharge phones...etc, instead of using batteries and inverter.
Without the need for air conditioning-
Typically we will start the generator in the morning to fix breakfast and then turn it off once the batteries show a full charge. In the evening the generator will be used again to fix dinner and watch TV until quiet time or we go to bed.
Of course when air conditioning is needed the generators stay on.
The Junkman said
08:03 PM Jul 8, 2014
If your going to be a rv park, Like I plan too.. I don't see the need for Agm's, big inverter, etc.. 2 batteries should be enough to get to point a to b..
some stuff is big money.. 3000 w sine wave inverter can be like 1k or more.. I bought 4 of those agm's before for genie lift i was selling.. I think they where like $275 ea..
2 12v deep cell 1000 amp walmart batteries are fine..5 year warranty.. if they go bad, go exchange them.. $100 ea..
Boondocking? buy it all ..lol
Selah said
08:34 PM Jul 8, 2014
When talking about house batteries it's all about how many amp-hours can you put in the space available and how much is that going to cost.
Typically a single 12 volt deep cycle will have a lower A/H rating and cost more that two 6 volt deep cycle batteries. Be aware that 12 volt batteries labeled "Marine/Deep Cycle" are probably a hybrid and not a true deep cycle. If the battery label contains a cold cranking amp rating it is not a true deep cycle and you want true deep cycle batteries.
Wet cell batteries cost less but require regular maintenance. AGM type deep cycle are maintenance free and can be put in confined spaces where wet cells requires venting. This can become important if you adding additional batteries to the OEM set up.
If you are planning to expand your battery pack it should be done with in six months of your initial battery purchase. It is not recommended to mix old and new batteries.
I hope this helps some with your decision.
cheryls-other-half said
07:39 AM Jul 9, 2014
Well. The Shoemaker's children just got lucky (and got shoes?)
Seriously, Took out batteries on advice of RV Tech who agreed that the batteries should have been charging (he was there to finally fix/replace missing bolts on slideout piston). Took to a battery only store, and they tested batteries at load, they were at 4 volts each, normally new batteries come at 4.5 volts under load (according to the salesguy)
He asked last time they were charged, said had my charger directly on (tied at 12v) yesterday. He asked if I had checked the water level, I said no, and he said go back, fill them up, and recharge them, and refused to sell me new ones. (BTW, that is a GREAT way to make a customer for LIFE--Refuse to sell them something when they DON'T need it!)
So, I did, and checked levels, ... The water was totally under the cells on each of the cells. So filling them up (about a quart each cell to just COVER them), and then charged them again, and hopefully all is good again. (did add more water, then to just cover them)
Bill and Linda said
07:47 AM Jul 9, 2014
Mitch:
I know you’re good with your older batteries right now but I’d like to offer this perspective for future information.
Normally I would agree with all who suggested 6 volt AGM batteries – in my case Lifeline which, IMO, the best choice as to a brand for your application. However:
What kind of charger do you have?I have no idea what DRV was put in your coach.Probably a perfectly acceptable one for “factory standard” batteries.(That goes for any trailer brand, not just DRV.)
AGM’s are pretty expensive.You don’t want to purchase two batteries now and then go back later and add two more.That’s a no no. You don’t want to mix new and older batteries.All batteries should be the same age – or at least within 6 months or less – or you will cause the batteries to fail sooner due to the age difference.
So, unless you are ready to purchase all the batteries you need all at once, and perhaps depending on what is in the trailer now as to the converter / charger which will properly charge AGM batteries, I’d just purchase a couple of “temporary” less expensive batteries rather than the AGM’s if you should need to replace them in the future.
-- Edited by Bill and Linda on Wednesday 9th of July 2014 09:46:11 AM
TRAILERKING said
08:11 AM Jul 9, 2014
cheryls-other-half wrote:
Well. The Shoemaker's children just got lucky (and got shoes?)
Seriously, Took out batteries on advice of RV Tech who agreed that the batteries should have been charging (he was there to finally fix/replace missing bolts on slideout piston). Took to a battery only store, and they tested batteries at load, they were at 4 volts each, normally new batteries come at 4.5 volts under load (according to the salesguy)
He asked last time they were charged, said had my charger directly on (tied at 12v) yesterday. He asked if I had checked the water level, I said no, and he said go back, fill them up, and recharge them, and refused to sell me new ones. (BTW, that is a GREAT way to make a customer for LIFE--Refuse to sell them something when they DON'T need it!)
So, I did, and checked levels, ... The water was totally under the cells on each of the cells. So filling them up (about a quart each cell to just COVER them), and then charged them again, and hopefully all is good again. (did add more water, then to just cover them)
You should have did the mineral oil treatment to the batteries. I did mine over a year ago........Never been low since.
4oz per cell on a 6 volt
2oz per cell on a 12 volt
Make sure your water level is just above the plates. Add mineral oil. Top up with water to the bottom ring. Make sure your charger isn't over charging and "Boiling" your batteries also.
Mine used to gas, slobber a bit around the caps, corrode at the cable connections........Now, nothing.
The Junkman said
01:08 PM Jul 9, 2014
There's a kit thing to can buy to restore the batteries too.. Refurbishes them. Maybe it's the mineral oil thing ?
I think you use distilled water in the batteries too..fyi..
Local battery supply guys are using these kits, then selling them as New-other.. And warranting them.
TRAILERKING said
03:04 PM Jul 9, 2014
No.............I think the "Kit" you are talking about is probably to do a desulfate to the plates.
By putting mineral oil in the cells (predetermined amount), acts like a seal with the layer of oil floating on top of the water. This slows down the "Gassing" dramatically thus keeping the cells full and the tops of the batteries and battery bay cleaner.
HabDaddy said
05:17 PM Jul 9, 2014
Hope everything works out for your batteries. I also am a fan of the 6v AGM. I swapped to them about 10 years ago in my truck camper (mainly since checking the water levels was a pain but also I could mount them in any position). Got more juice and they seem to last for an eternity.
Question.
The 2008 OEM battery on our 36 ft DRV Mobile suites battery just died. Totally
As we are going to need to increase capacity at some point for dry-camping/boondocking and/or Solar, should we:
A) Just replace the 2 6 volt Ford Motorcraft deep cycle batteries with one 12 volt deep cycle?
B) replace the 2 6 V batteries with two 6 V ATM ones.
c) ReplACE THE 2 6 VOLTS WITH two other 6 volt deep cycles.
Only asking because at some point we know we will need to expand/extend our battery array.
(and we know that it's the battery, because there's no 12v on the fridge when we try to use the LP, and the tech here to work\
on the slideout agreed.
\
Augh. Trials and tribulations, it's all to be expected.
any ideas on brands, or types?
Mitch,
I'm presuming that the tech checked each battery to verify they were dead. The reason I bring that up is because there is a switch on our 2010 Mobile Suites that is for the 12-volt system. It is located in the same compartment with the switches to operate the jacks and Level-Up hydraulic system. So, first of all, check that switch.
Secondly, I'd suggest staying with two 6-volt batteries. You might also consider AGM style as they are maintenance-free from what I've read on the forums. Also, if you are planning on a lot of boondocking, with the possibility of getting an inverter, you might consider having two extra batteries installed as well. Talk with someone knowledgeable about inverters so that they can suggest a location where two of your batteries are close to the inverter. On our 2010, we ordered ours with a 3000 watt pure sine wave inverter and 4 batteries. The factory built in a second compartment on the opposite side of the front storage access door to accommodate the batteries and then installed the inverter on top of that same compartment for the batteries.
Terry
Mitch,
As Terry noted if you plan on upgrading down the line, make the investment now and get the AGM's. They are maintenance free and can be used in a closed compartment without venting if necessary. There are several brands from high end to lower end. I set our system up with Concorde Sunextender AGM's which is the sister company to the top of the line Lifeline Batteries. There are also other brands such as US Battery and Fullriver. We preferred to use a USA made battery.
Shop around as you can get some good deals from different sources, especially some of the solar suppliers such as Northern Arizona Wind and Sun http://www.solar-electric.com/ and AM Solar http://amsolar.com/ .
http://www.concordebattery.com/
http://lifelinebatteries.com/
http://usbattery.com/products/us-agm-batteries/
http://fullriverdcbattery.com/applications/solar/
Good Luck with the search!
Les
Like Terry indicated above, the consensus of RVers in the know seems to be the use of 6 volt AGM batteries as the best setup for boondocking RVs.
I have not changed over to 6 volt batteries but would if we did more boondocking for longer periods of time. Currently we boondock for a week or two and have found our current setup works to meet our needs.
I have two 12v deep cycle batteries (DieHards) that power our 12v house needs. I have another two 12v deep cycle batteries (DieHards) that power our inverter so we can use the TVs, sat box, laptops and recharge phones...etc. I have two 2000i Honda Generators with the parallel kit that we can run if need to use the air conditioner or just use a single generator to charge batteries and run the microwave, coffee pot, other appliances plus the TVs, sat box, laptops and recharge phones...etc, instead of using batteries and inverter.
Without the need for air conditioning-
Typically we will start the generator in the morning to fix breakfast and then turn it off once the batteries show a full charge. In the evening the generator will be used again to fix dinner and watch TV until quiet time or we go to bed.
Of course when air conditioning is needed the generators stay on.
some stuff is big money.. 3000 w sine wave inverter can be like 1k or more.. I bought 4 of those agm's before for genie lift i was selling.. I think they where like $275 ea..
2 12v deep cell 1000 amp walmart batteries are fine..5 year warranty.. if they go bad, go exchange them.. $100 ea..
Boondocking? buy it all ..lol
Typically a single 12 volt deep cycle will have a lower A/H rating and cost more that two 6 volt deep cycle batteries. Be aware that 12 volt batteries labeled "Marine/Deep Cycle" are probably a hybrid and not a true deep cycle. If the battery label contains a cold cranking amp rating it is not a true deep cycle and you want true deep cycle batteries.
Wet cell batteries cost less but require regular maintenance. AGM type deep cycle are maintenance free and can be put in confined spaces where wet cells requires venting. This can become important if you adding additional batteries to the OEM set up.
If you are planning to expand your battery pack it should be done with in six months of your initial battery purchase. It is not recommended to mix old and new batteries.
I hope this helps some with your decision.
Seriously, Took out batteries on advice of RV Tech who agreed that the batteries should have been charging (he was there to finally fix/replace missing bolts on slideout piston).
Took to a battery only store, and they tested batteries at load, they were at 4 volts each, normally new batteries come at 4.5 volts under load (according to the salesguy)
He asked last time they were charged, said had my charger directly on (tied at 12v) yesterday. He asked if I had checked the water level, I said no, and he said go back, fill them up, and recharge them, and refused to sell me new ones. (BTW, that is a GREAT way to make a customer for LIFE--Refuse to sell them something when they DON'T need it!)
So, I did, and checked levels, ... The water was totally under the cells on each of the cells. So filling them up (about a quart each cell to just COVER them), and then charged them again, and hopefully all is good again. (did add more water, then to just cover them)
Mitch:
I know you’re good with your older batteries right now but I’d like to offer this perspective for future information.
Normally I would agree with all who suggested 6 volt AGM batteries – in my case Lifeline which, IMO, the best choice as to a brand for your application. However:
What kind of charger do you have? I have no idea what DRV was put in your coach. Probably a perfectly acceptable one for “factory standard” batteries. (That goes for any trailer brand, not just DRV.)
AGM’s are pretty expensive. You don’t want to purchase two batteries now and then go back later and add two more. That’s a no no. You don’t want to mix new and older batteries. All batteries should be the same age – or at least within 6 months or less – or you will cause the batteries to fail sooner due to the age difference.
So, unless you are ready to purchase all the batteries you need all at once, and perhaps depending on what is in the trailer now as to the converter / charger which will properly charge AGM batteries, I’d just purchase a couple of “temporary” less expensive batteries rather than the AGM’s if you should need to replace them in the future.
-- Edited by Bill and Linda on Wednesday 9th of July 2014 09:46:11 AM
You should have did the mineral oil treatment to the batteries. I did mine over a year ago........Never been low since.
4oz per cell on a 6 volt
2oz per cell on a 12 volt
Make sure your water level is just above the plates. Add mineral oil. Top up with water to the bottom ring. Make sure your charger isn't over charging and "Boiling" your batteries also.
Mine used to gas, slobber a bit around the caps, corrode at the cable connections........Now, nothing.
I think you use distilled water in the batteries too..fyi..
Local battery supply guys are using these kits, then selling them as New-other.. And warranting them.
By putting mineral oil in the cells (predetermined amount), acts like a seal with the layer of oil floating on top of the water. This slows down the "Gassing" dramatically thus keeping the cells full and the tops of the batteries and battery bay cleaner.