camper batteries

Thanks for all the info!

I recently bought two US brand 6 volt batteries for $99 apiece to replace two Trojan T-105's that had lasted around ten years. I bought them from Powertron in Santa Ana, CA. They told me that US brand batts are just as good as Trojans. I replaced the original WFCO converter/charger with a modern Progressive Dynamics PD 9245 unit that has different charge levels including desulphation mode that will maintain batteries much better. I also have a Trik-L-Start installed that keeps the starting battery up while rig is plugged into 120vac. All systems require checking battery electrolyte levels and adding distilled water to keep the plates covered as well as keeping connections clean.The PD 9245 is simple to install and has a remote "pendant" with LED's that lets you monitor what the charger is doing.

I just replaced two deep cycle batteries. On the suggestion from my son in law, I went to the local Interstate distributor and asked for "Blemished" batteries. I got two for less than the price of a single battery. Only difference.... all of the labels peeled off, exect for a date code sticker. Same warranty!

As far as batteries, true deep cycle 6 volts are what you want. Nearly all "deep cycle" 12 volt batteries are more of a hybrid. When you pick up a true deep cycle battery you'll feel the difference. As others have said, you should also change over to a multi-stage converter (Progressive Dynamics) and your batteries will last longer. You also need to know how much you're draining them. Draining them too low will dramatically shorten their life. Check the specs of the battery for that data. You need an accurate voltmeter hooked up to them to know how for down you've drawn them.

I went really hard core and put Lifeline AGMs in mine. Big bucks but worth it to me.

If the batteries are properly taken care of I would expect more than 5 years.
Keep in mind, there are only a small handful of battery manufacturers who make the batteries that hundreds of different companies sell. Interstate does not make their batteries. The manufacturers include: Deka, Trojan, Exide, Johnson Controls, and there may be a few more.
I use Deka on most everything. I've installed hundreds of their batteries in the off grid power systems I design for a living.

Forgot to mention my forest river is a 2005, purchased in march 05. I thought I was doing pretty good with the coach batteries, except for the Interstates.

Marcus 14006 wrote:
I'd be more concerned with what your charger is doing to all of these batteries.

X2!!

If you have a single stage converter/charger. It will over charge your batts.
Fir about $200.0 you can upgrade to a Multi stage converter/charger. This will give your new batts longer life.

I would have to agree with what Marcus 14006 said.

If the batteries are not being properly maintained by your charger,
it will make NO difference what you buy.

I'd be more concerned with what your charger is doing to all of these batteries.