I was just getting ready to install new coach batteries in our 320. I intended to remove the three 8Ds and haul them to the batt shop. I had disconnected the cables and was just about to call my son and have him come over for some exercise. Anyhow, in the mean time, I found another vendor with a better price and that also does take out and installation. My question is: Is there any problem driving with the coach batteries disconnected? (inverter/charger OFF and boost OFF) Thanks.
jor
Can't think of any. Just make sure that there is not a cross connection between the alternator and engine batteries and the house circuit. Easy to find out if you check for voltage at the house battery terminals. In other words the engine circuit is isolated from the inverter etc.
Perhaps someone with more experience with these coaches can tell OR even better call Foretravel for a definitive answer.
Keith
To expand on Keith's caution, you really need to be careful with the positive terminals, as the alternator, through the battery isolator will be able to provide full alternator output (150+ amps) if that positive terminal were to ground.
I would reconnect the batteries, or at least the cable from house positive and house ground even if only to one battery.
Brett
OK , guys. I'm convinced that this isn't a bright idea. I'll just reconnect. Thanks to you both!
jor
Talking of Batteries has me asking if anyone has a good lead on Lifeline AGM 8D with automotive connections. I have 3 already that I bought in March and want to add another of same for more storage. Best price I have come up with is $650 at AM Solar where I got the others. Any ideas??
John
i special ordered 8DAGM's made by East Penn from O'reilly Auto parts at $399 each, HOWEVER this is special order and they screwed it all up. You might check , maybe you can find a store manager with some brains. Good Luck.
Gary B
Jor,
The problem is that even though you removed the batteries, as soon as you fire up the engine, at least one of the loose cables becomes hot as it is connected to terminal 2 on the isolator and will see lots of amps instantly from the alternator even at idle. You can imagine if a ground cable came in contact with the hot cable while going down the road! Lets see, you have a fiberglas box with the 8Ds in it? :-)
So, easy to think there is no voltage as a meter would indicate zero until you hit the starter, the alt starts making juice and it's buddy the isolator spreads the joy.
Photo the cables so you can remember installation sequence. My factory labels are there but unreadable.