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goducks10's avatar
goducks10
Explorer
Jul 08, 2016

2 or 4 6V batteries.

Getting ready to get new batteries for my 5th wheel. We do mostly dry camping but mix in CG's with elec/water off and on thru the season. Most of our dry camping is in the 3-6 night range, with most just 3-4 nights at a time.
My question is should I get only 2 6V batteries and use my Honda 2000w to charge them up when needed or should I just get 4 6V batteries and not worry about charging unless I go past the 3-4 night range.
My thinking was that we could do 3-4 nights without a charge using the 4 6V batteries but wouldn't make it that long with just two.
We tend to use power conservatively but don't make it a concern to run whatever whenever.
Not going to do any solar at this point. We don't mind running the gen when needed but it would be nice not to have to dig it out every trip.
Right now we have 2 well used Interstate G24s that need charging everyday.
I have the room for 4 6Vs so that's a non issue.
Just not sure which way would be the most user friendly.
  • I was thinking Trojan T-105s. A little spendy. I don't have a Sams near me but do have a Costco. Last time I checked though they didn't carry the 6V GC batteries. The Costco that does is about 45 mins from my house. No biggie.
    Curious, are the Costco/Sams 6V GC batteries as good or good enough considering the cost difference compared to the T-105s?
  • smkettner wrote:
    +1 to go four with mostly dry camping. Also makes charging on generator more efficient.

    The next question is what 6v? the Costco 208, Sam's/Trojan 232, or even the slightly taller Trojan 260 amp hours.

    Are you at all considering AGM?


    My vote is for 4 6v batteries. as well. To keep costs down, you =can= use golf cart batteries. Last I looked, they were about $82 each at Sam's and are, IIRC, 210 or 220 amp hour. Would bigger ones be better? Sure, but at what cost?

    Lyle
  • +1 to go four with mostly dry camping. Also makes charging on generator more efficient.

    The next question is what 6v? the Costco 208, Sam's/Trojan 232, or even the slightly taller Trojan 260 amp hours.

    Are you at all considering AGM?
  • malechi wrote:
    I'd go with 4. No one ever wishes they had less batteries


    My thinking too, but I was thinking that if I did run the 4 6V down pretty good then the recovery time would be greater. Trying to weigh the difference between a few gen runs or one long gen run to recharge if necessary.