Deka DC31DT battery? Deep Cycle?

pnichols wrote:
By the way for the OP ... you have stated that you like the idea that one can merely add more 12V voltage batteries in parallel to increase capacity as needed. This shouldn't be done "too simply". Two or more 12 volt batteries need to be wired together in parallel in a balanced configuration so each battery supplies the same current into loads or so each battery accepts the same current when being charged. Here's an article that helps to explain balanced interconnection methods for batteries in parallel: http://www.smartgauge.co.uk/batt_con.html

You're right about the balancing. I was reading heavily into that yesterday.

Now that I have learned the GC2's at Sams Club are Deka/East Penn Mfg, I think we're going to go that direction.

Cost wise:

3- 12v @ $120/ea = $360 = 315ah
4- 6v @ $ 85/ea = $340 = 430ah

Wiring and storage box will be more complex, but we'd like to put the Inverter and new PD charger/converter in there, too. It's going to be a real project (!)

Our batteries will be stored in a single row, not a square as some people can do in their storage compartments. Think "truck tool box" style.

The plan is to have the batteries in the middle section, partition it off and vent it, use one of the sides for the inverter, charger/converter, switches, etc and use the other side for tool storage.

Here is a pic of the tongue area



I can move the Propane storage forward 4.5"-6" and not interfere with the electric jack (well, require moving the regulator if I ever have to use the manual override).

I can move or remove the current battery mount.

I cannot move the WDH linkages and must have unfettered access to them for the pipe/bar I use to set them when hitched.

I've seen toolboxes that are stepped in the front, so that could be an option, but I'm strongly considering making a custom box.

I like the idea of recessing the batteries (and weight) down in side the tongue.

The front edge of the camper is rounded, so as we come up vertically, we eventually lose about 6" of space between the propane bottles and the front edge of the camper.

I'm considering building a reinforced frame inside the box that would support a "shelf" on top to store the generator as some have done.

If we choose to later, the generator storage area could eventually be a generator box to provide for running it in place and connect to the electrical systems and chargers in the box below.

That's the "grand plan" anyways. Not sure how far we'll go with it, but as long as we don't inhibit the possibility for the future.

But for now, some front electrical box and management pics would be more appreciated so we can steal...ahem...consider those ideas. :C