New RV'r - Batts + Chargers + Inverters = clueless

Well, here's where I wrap up this little adventure before moving on to the next (my inverter install). Basically, the scope here was to replace an existing 12v coach battery with 4x6v golf cart batteries, upgrade the power converter and charger, and a battery monitor.

Power Converter Upgrade

As a new RV owner, I didn't even know where the power converter was located (under the fridge) so this was an adventure. The existing Magnetek 6345 had to be replaced in favor of a three stage charger. The recommendation was to consider a solution that would support 75 to 90 amps as to allow for the additional batteries. In doing so, I'd get a faster charge. But as with anything else, life is about tradeoffs. In the end, I opted for an easy replacement, e.g. the Progressive Dynamics PD4655 which is a 55amp charger/converter. The PD4655 is a mostly a direct replacement that also comes with a new DC fuse panel and built-in charge wizard (don't order the wizard pendant, it can't attach). Randy at Best Converter recommended this path and noted that the PD9280 I was considering wouldn't fit. Either way, I'm in for a lesson here. But it's in, and it's working. And for now at least, I'm happy.

Batteries

I didn't go with the Trojan T105's as I had originally planned. Based on price/performance comments regarding Sams Club and Costo batteries, that's the route I took, specifically, Costco. As I recall, each battery was 208Ah with a price of $87 each +$9 core charge. I had our local "Batteries Plus" outlet custom cut each of the cables (welding cables).

• 2/0 went from the relay in the engine compartment to the new battery location.
  
• 2/0 from the batteries to the shunt (for the trimetric monitor).
  
• 2/0 from the shunt to the chassis for ground.
  
• #2 gauge cable was used to wire the batteries together

Creating a new battery bay

We picked a spot for the new battery bay just behind the driver. This would be a short cable run from the isolator/relay making things relatively easy. We had to section off the basement storage compartment as to keep the batteries separate from the other air space. For those who are interested, here's a video I put together of what was done. I'm pleased with how the new bay came out.

YouTube Video: 1991 Mallard Sprinter Battery Relocation Project

Misc Pics

The new battery bay

https://picasaweb.google.com/111643192205869745892/June42013?authuser=0&feat=directlinkBattery bay vent

Trimetric panel install

Thank You

Special thanks to each of you for your help. It really made this process a great deal easier knowing that I had such a wealth of knowledge available. I hope someday I can give back as well.

Best,

Tim