Pin weight and additional batteries

Question

I have a 2010 Laredo 316RL 5er. It comes with one 12v battery (weight?), in the front recessed  storage compartment near the front elect. jacks. Replaced 12v with two Crown 6v (~140lb). I would like to add two more Crown 6v to increase Ah. I have not weighted batteries but specs say about 70lb. So total of ~280lb total. I have a battery box that will accommodate four side by side and intend to center it. Front compartment will need additional bracing I believe to support additional weight. Are there other considerations I need to take into account. Inputs will be greatly appreciated.

mdamerell · Answer

They mount generators in that compartment. Provided the batteries are properly secured/supported I don't see why it would be a big deal.

addisonl · Answer

As long as you are below the generator weight that might go there, you should be fine. I like to do things extra safely so I probably would look closely at the support, maybe even check to see if they do anything different if there was a generator put in there. I added batteries but had space to spread them out more evenly with two on each side of the rig.

sjturbo · Answer

Thanks for the ideas. Unfortunately my Laredo does not have the usual "generator ready" front end. It is more like a step-down storage space, roughly 12" deep ~15" front to back running the width of the 5er to the landing gear on each side. Splitting the pairs up to each side of the 5er did cross my mind but it seemed like keeping the weight centered would maintain stability since it is not over or near any axle. It would likely require 3/16" angle running the width of the unit welded to each I beam frame member. My concern is how it will affect the pin weight.

jim-linda · Answer

What is your current pin weight? What is the TV rear axle weight rating? The answer is entirely in your TV capability. If you haven't weighed the rig, do so and then calculate the additions to the front compartment. I would suspect that most of the weight will add to the pin.

Jim

time2roll · Answer

Only about 2/3rd will get on the pin. Doubt you will notice unless you have issues now.
Possibly carry less in the truck bed or pack stuff toward the rear of the trailer.
Make sure you have a good charging system to make the most of the extra battery.

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Pin weight and additional batteries

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