RV Batteries
I just bought my third deep cycle marine battery in three years for my Rockwood Fifth Wheel. They keep going dead. I bring them indoors in winter and keep them connnected (plugged in) in the RV all ...
Forum Discussion
Grapehound wrote:
I just bought my third deep cycle marine battery in three years for my Rockwood Fifth Wheel.
Most "marine" batteries are NOT true "deep" discharge. They are dual purpose starting and trolling, therefore they are a compromise. True 12V deep discharge batteries are not common and likely can only be obtained at a solar energy store or possibly through a golf cart distributor. For a bit more money and a bit more space, you are better off buying two 6V golf cart batteries at Costco or Sams.
Grapehound wrote:
... keep them connnected (plugged in) in the RV all during the camping season, even when I am not camping.
If you suspect there is a possible short in the wiring either install a master disconnect switch or disconnect the batteries between trips.
Grapehound wrote:
We took a three day camping trip last weekend after I had fully charged my new battery to 100% on the big charger.
By "big charger" I hope you are referring to a smart charger that does 3 stage charging. If you are using it at home between trips, a 20-50 amp multi-stage charger is fine. It will have a maintenance mode so no trickle charger is required.
Grapehound wrote:
Now that I am home it is down to 50%, even though it was charging on the way down (140 miles), it was plugged in the whole time camping, and charging on the way home.
A proper full, recharge while driving is NOT POSSIBLE without special equipment.
Please read this.
