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Topic: 2003 U320 Chassis batteries (Read 2078 times) previous topic - next topic

Re: 2003 U320 Chassis batteries

Reply #25 –
Not sure how to help with your current problem, BUT might want to relocate those batteries somewhere else, like one of the bays.
Also might try calling Foretravel and ask.
'99 U320 40 WTFE
Build #5462,
1500 Watts Solar 600 amp Victron lithium
2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland Hemi
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Retired

Re: 2003 U320 Chassis batteries

Reply #26 –
Quote from: Bob and Julie –
Not sure how to help with your current problem, BUT might want to relocate those batteries somewhere else, like one of the bays.

Foretravel put the batteries in that mid-line compartment when they moved the AquaHot out to a more serviceable location (gel or AGM batteries being sealed and thus not needing as frequent access as the AquaHot.

A 38' U320 coach, especially if it has a tag axle, will lose A LOT of storage if you sacrifice a bay for the batteries.
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: 2003 U320 Chassis batteries

Reply #27 –
It was a terrible job.  I did it by myself, but it would be much, much easier with a second person.

I considered using something like a transmission jack, but did not have one (or access to one).  So, I built a wooden ramp and slid the old batteries down it and the new ones up it.  Used some hinges to connect ramp to battery rack.  Had to drill a few holes in rack to attach.  Still was not easy, but doable.

There is a lot of wrestling with the batteries, so be sure the positive poles don't touch anything metal.  Most batteries come with plastic caps on the poles.

As others mentioned, I considered removing the muffler to make access easier.

DO NOT RELY ON THE AIR SYSTEM TO HOLD THE COACH UP!!!!  Use some type of heavy duty jacks (not auto jack stands).  I think there is a sticky that discusses working safely around your coach.  I have 4 thick-walled metal tubes I use to securely hold the chassis up.

Be Careful!
Jim McNeece
2003 U320 40'
2017 Chevy Colorado Tow
 

Re: 2003 U320 Chassis batteries

Reply #28 –
We don't have an 03', but I believe from what I have read, better chassis battery access is one of the benefits of replacing the muffler with a resonator.
Don
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Don & Tys
1999 U270 3602 WTFE #5402
Xtreme Stage 1 w/Headlight, Step Conversion, etc.
2009 Honda Fit Sport with Navi
Freedom is NOT "just another word for nothing left to lose"... with apologies to Kris Kristofferson