Inverter question
We have a 2007 Holiday Rambler DP with an Onan 8500 Generator and an inverter. The way it is set up through the Magnum Energy panel inside, our batteries do not charge as we are going down the ro...
Forum Discussion
prstlk wrote:
We have a 2007 Holiday Rambler DP with an Onan 8500 Generator and an inverter.
The way it is set up through the Magnum Energy panel inside, our batteries do not charge as we are going down the road. The only way to charge them is to start the generator and run it for 2 or 3 hours or plug into shore power.
We called the manufacturer of the panel and they told me that I was to start the coach and go back and look at the panel. If it says “inverting” then it is not charging while the engine is running. This is in fact what it says. He basically told me that some charge while going down the road and some don’t and that it depends on how the MH manufacturer set it up.
Can someone tell me what I would need to do to have the batteries charge while the engine is running and we are moving?
At this point, I'm going to assume that you KNOW for sure that you ARE NOT receiving a charge to your house batteries while the engine is running, that you have checked the ACTUAL VOLTAGE at the batteries and not the panel inside, correct? If not, do so.
About 99.9999999% of the motor homes manufactured in the last 30 years or so, are designed so the engine DOES charge BOTH sets of batteries while the engine is running. I can't possibly imagine a coach manufacturer such as Holiday Rambler, and especially a 2007 model year, not setting up the 12V engine alternator system, to NOT charge both sets of batteries while the engine is running.
As has been stated, there are a few ways that this is accomplished. I am no expert on this stuff but, been around a few dozen coaches and have done a bit of battery work and charging system work. If I may ask, has this condition you're speaking of, ALWAYS been like this or, did it just develope? A suggestion. If it were me, I'd maybe get ahold of another HR owner or, if there's forum of that type, and see what more info you can find on your particular model and year.
About 99.9% of the time, the "Inverter/Charger" has nothing to do with the 12V alternator charging system. It's job is to charge one or both sets of batteries while on shore power, depending on how the system is setup.
So, some analyzing is in order before any major changes or alterations take place.
Scott
