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Topic: LiFePo Start Batteries??? (Read 343 times) previous topic - next topic

LiFePo Start Batteries???

Starting to see some lithium start battery offerings with 1000 to 1200CCA.  Would like to save weight and get start batteries with the same chemistry as my house batteries.

Anyone done the conversion? 

Other than the cost and need for heating them, anyone see an issue?
2001 4010 U320 build #5865 "Bluto-d-Bus" since 09/18
2006 Honda Element ESP Toad
Full timing since 2016 in Western MT
Copilot: Sitka
1975 GMC 260 Avion: sold

Re: LiFePo Start Batteries???

Reply #1 –
Other than the needed modifications for charging off the alternator, I see no downside. I'd just leave a way to bypass said modifications incase you ever need to go back to lead acid/agm in a pinch. Not sure how you'll heat them in their current location though...may need to relocate
1987 Grand Villa ORED
2001 U320 4010

Not all that wander are lost... but I often am.

Re: LiFePo Start Batteries???

Reply #2 –
Agreed Elliott.  I already have B2B charger installed to protect the alternator from over amping with the Battleborn house set up.  If I go with the lithium starts I'd probably use switched snowmobile handle heaters like what Roger Engdahl used on his Battleborn install plus a water heater insulate wrap?
2001 4010 U320 build #5865 "Bluto-d-Bus" since 09/18
2006 Honda Element ESP Toad
Full timing since 2016 in Western MT
Copilot: Sitka
1975 GMC 260 Avion: sold

Re: LiFePo Start Batteries???

Reply #3 –
Quote from: Woody & Sitka –
Agreed Elliott.  I already have B2B charger installed to protect the alternator from over amping with the Battleborn house set up.  If I go with the lithium starts I'd probably use switched snowmobile handle heaters like what Roger Engdahl used on his Battleborn install plus a water heater insulate wrap?
At 70mph on a cold day I'd still worry about them hanging off the back in an exposed area like that. If they have to shut down due to it being too cold to charge you could lose 12v power going down the road I think. Maybe box that hanger in with sheet metal to protect the insulation?
1987 Grand Villa ORED
2001 U320 4010

Not all that wander are lost... but I often am.

Re: LiFePo Start Batteries???

Reply #4 –

I thought the lipo BMS only cuts off charge at low temperature?  Most start LiFePo specs I see are rated for use at much lower temps than the charge cutoff of the BMS like this Dakota Litium.  This TPE battery is rated at 1300CCA and down to -25C with a 5 year warranty.
 Amazon.com: GROUP 27 Car Start-Stop Lithium Battery 12V 80AH Car Battery...

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2001 4010 U320 build #5865 "Bluto-d-Bus" since 09/18
2006 Honda Element ESP Toad
Full timing since 2016 in Western MT
Copilot: Sitka
1975 GMC 260 Avion: sold