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MaximusTnC's avatar
MaximusTnC
Explorer
Jun 15, 2014

Questions: 2nd battery for my sweet, sweet minivan?

Hi RV.NET peeps! I have installation/configuration questions that I'm hoping you'll be able to help me with, and/or point me in the direction of a person/company that could help me out. I wish ...
MEXICOWANDERER's avatar
MEXICOWANDERER
Explorer
Jun 16, 2014
  • MEASURE. Close only counts in Horseshoes and Thermonuclear
  • You can provide a great vent right in the compartment. Hydrogen gas rises - fast so put the vent at the top of the well
  • You need to use a device that will send full alternator voltage potential to the well battery. I recommend a 200-amp automatic battery combiner like a Sure Power
  • If you are not a road warrior camping at RV parks but rather heading off into the sticks with no hookups, it is silly to purchase a 3-stage "smart" charger. Choose a small and inexpensive multi-stage battery maintainer and plug your rig in when you get home
  • By the way that battery combiner should be BI-directional so it allows the battery maintainer to charge BOTH RV and engine battery automatically, Both batteries will love you for it
  • Install 60 ampere rated circuit breakers at BOTH ENDS of the big wire that will connect both batteries. The positive + wire
  • 8-Gauge wire is plenty for your amperage and length of circuit
  • House the charge lead wire INSIDE a slit length of fuel line hose you buy at a parts house. It must be kept distant from hot exhaust components underneath the car. The mechanic should strap the hose to components along the way with BLACK plastic cable ties. Do not use white ties!
  • Don't choose a silly sized inverter. That would be like choosing a V-10 pickup on a 30 dollar a month gasoline budget. Use a propane stove and coffee press rather than a short circuit powered electric coffeemaker
  • Good luck with your project, you're going to have a nice setup when you're done!

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