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rowekmr's avatar
rowekmr
Explorer
May 30, 2017

Low voltage on 2000 Dutch Star 8.3L

Helllo
Just picked up a 2000 Newmar Dutch Star that has been sitting for 4-5 years (long story). Both chassis batteries replaced recently and had a pre trip inspection by a mobile mechanic before I picked it up. Starting in FL voltmeter was above 12v and by Atlanta it was bouncing from 8-11v. I had generator on for roof air. Stopped by Love service center and counter guy used a voltmeter and confirmed 11v with engine running and no electrical load. Couldn't repair it there so stopped at Walmart and shut engine off but left generator on. Tried to restart to see how low and it didn't start engine and shut generator off. Used the switch to couple house batteries and started generator and went in and got a 40amp battery charger and 50' thick gauge extension cord. I plugged in charger in garage outlet and set charger on 40 amps. I checked the specs of Interstate chassis batteries (31 MHD) and they are rated at 1190 amps.

Does it sound like alternator failure?

I plan on charging for 7 hours will that last the 10 hour ride home if I turn off all electrical loads?

Any other suggestions?
Class A

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  • Jamboree89's avatar
    Jamboree89
    Explorer
    May 30, 2017
    It is possible you could have a failed battery isolator. Do you have a Cole-Hersee battery isolator? If so, try a jumper between either battery stud and the alternator stud with the engine running, this will provide field voltage to the alternator. If you get around 13.7 VDC you'll know the isolator is bad.
  • Trackrig's avatar
    Trackrig
    Explorer II
    May 30, 2017
    The battery probably won't last the 7 hour trip home - especially if the headlights come on automatically when the engine is running as many MHs do. You can probably find the fuse to kill the lights, but don't pull the ones for the brakes or turn signals.

    The battery will take the biggest part of the charge in the first several hours. I'd stop midway and charge it some more. Don't run the dash air. Is there anyway to keep the generator running with the battery charger charging while going down the road? Get some duct tape and tape the extension cord in place to the side of the MH if needed.

    Bill

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