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Topic: Dead Batteries (Read 1009 times) previous topic - next topic

Dead Batteries

I replaced the chassie batteries last autum, prior to putting the coach in heated storage at a motorhome facility.  They informed me that the chassie batteries are totally dead. 

They have been periodically plugging the coach in, and the coach batteries seem fine.  All interior lights are operable, they say, but the ignition key is totally dead.  They have had the entrance steps switch in the off position.  Will this prohibit the chassie batteries from charging?

Any other insight or assistance would be helpful.

Gregory S
2003 Designer (Ruby)

Re: Dead Batteries

Reply #1 –
Quote from: GregoryS –
I replaced the chassie batteries last autum, prior to putting the coach in heated storage at a motorhome facility.  They informed me that the chassie batteries are totally dead. 

Any other insight or assistance would be helpful.


Unless you have something like the Trik-l-Start installed (an aftermarket device), the only ways to charge the chassis batteries while in storage and plugged in are to use the BOOST switch to connect both battery sets together OR to use a separate battery charger for the chassis batteries.  (BOOST really isn't designed for long term connection, though, if you lost power you could lose both sets of batteries).

There are enough small loads on the chassis battery that it needs a source of charging during storage.

Michelle
Learn every day, but especially from the experiences of others. It's cheaper!  - John C. Bogle

2000 U320 36' non-slide / WildEBeest Rescue
2003 U320

Re: Dead Batteries

Reply #2 –
Gregory,
It may be small consolation, but at least chassis batteries cost less than coach batteries -- of which you have six.

The Trik-L-Start is under $50 and if I can install it, anyone can install it. I would recommend you get and put this in place now. You can put Trik-L-Start in the Google search box and it will take you where you can buy one.
George Stoltz.  Retired from full-time living in a great Foretravel and now are back to living in a traditional sticks and bricks in Florida.

Re: Dead Batteries

Reply #3 –
Hi Greg,
  If you are interested in the Trik-L-Start, check with Carl Sandel, a member here. He had a few Trik-L-Starts for sale. He purchased a quantity for a better price.
Raymond & Babette Jordan
1997 U 320
1998 Ford Explorer XLT
 

Re: Dead Batteries

Reply #4 –
Step switch turns off house battery loads, except for alarms and refrigerator. Step switch has no effect on start battery loads.

If you are storing a long time without charging, you should disconnect batteries. Something pretty difficult on start batteries mounted up under engine.
Must measure battery voltage with digital meter to know what is going on.

Plugging in to charge batteries will only charge house battery, without some add-on after market aid.
Interior lights use house battery. Ignition key uses start battery.

Sorry you learned the hard way.