Foretravel Owners' Forum

Foretravel Motorhome Forums => Foretravel Tech Talk => Topic started by: Peter on November 13, 2020, 10:13:51 pm

Title: Start Battery, Isolator and Boost solenoid replacement
Post by: Peter on November 13, 2020, 10:13:51 pm
So... i have decided to replace by start batteries (red top Optima 34/78 which have  narrower post than the ones installed now)  Isolator (Cole Hersey 200 Amp) and Boost Solenoid (Cole Hersey 200 amp continuous) and maybe some cables if they need replacing. I am also adding a Trik-L-Start.

My question is to do with safety....I realize I have to disconnect the negatives on the start batteries prior to starting but do I need to remove the negatives off the house batteries as well????
As suggestions etc would be helpful!!!!
Peter
Title: Re: Start Battery, Isolator and Boost solenoid replacement
Post by: craneman on November 13, 2020, 10:18:43 pm
Your boost solenoid and isolator will have house batteries on one side. probably best to remove both negatives for the work
Title: Re: Start Battery, Isolator and Boost solenoid replacement
Post by: steve31 on November 13, 2020, 11:28:42 pm
If I'm messing around with the 12 volt system I disconnect everything at the battery. No sense getting a surprise that can smoke a circuit board. If I need power for testing I know the system is hot
Title: Re: Start Battery, Isolator and Boost solenoid replacement
Post by: dans96u295ft on November 14, 2020, 12:35:56 am
Yep. Disc the ground on both
Title: Re: Start Battery, Isolator and Boost solenoid replacement
Post by: Roger & Susan in Home2 on November 14, 2020, 10:08:59 am
Get a section of 1" foam pipe insulation at the hardware store.  Use a 4" piece over the lug secured by a zip time. 

Make sure your charger is off as well.  If you have solar be sure that is off too.  It never hurts to double check with a digital voltmeter.
Title: Re: Start Battery, Isolator and Boost solenoid replacement
Post by: jor on November 14, 2020, 03:59:39 pm
When you're installing your new batteries you could use the little plastic caps that came with your new batteries to cover the terminals. I always keep a couple around. Failing that, it's a yoga mat or a couple of rags.

When you disconnect, remove the negative cable first. When you connect put on the negative cable last.
jor