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jawsthemeswimmi's avatar
jawsthemeswimmi
Explorer
Jan 13, 2020

Battery Replacement Assistance

I am ready to replace my travel trailers factory installed group 24 rv/marine battery. I briefly searched the forum/internet and found a lot of good info but still wanted to post the question with my exact circumstances here. We have a 2016 Forrest River Flagstaff 23LB travel trailer. Most of the time, we camp with shore power. However, there is at least 1 time a year that we camp dry. With the factory group 24 we haven’t been satisfied. Mostly, the 1 time a year we camp dry is in the early fall. We want the ability to use the lights at night (sparingly), the on demand water pump for dishes and showering, and the fridge for a 3 day camping trip. Our fridge will run on propane but from what I’ve read the control board still needs 12v for power.
Would a true 12v deep cycle battery accommodate this? If so, what brand/model do people recommend? If not, what other recommendations are there? I know of the 2 x 6v golf cart battery setup but would that be overkill for once a year? I appreciate any help!

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  • schlep1967's avatar
    schlep1967
    Nomad
    Jan 13, 2020
    My opinion, not that it's worth much, for a coupon and less than $100 you can get a 900 watt generator at Harbor Freight. That and a cheap battery charger hooked up for an hour or 2 during the daylight hours should carry you through the night. Of course that is dependent on the tolerated noise levels for a generator during the day where you are dry camping.
  • opnspaces's avatar
    opnspaces
    Navigator III
    Jan 13, 2020
    Short answer is no. You won't find a 12 volt battery that will do what you're asking for one time a year.

    You have a few options. two 6 volts. I agree though that would be overkill for your situation. Is there enough room to mount two batteries?

    Two 12 volts. Probably still overkill for one weekend a year. Is there enough room to mount two batteries?

    Or bring a spare battery once a year and put it on the ground by the trailer tongue. Then use some jumper cables to hook the batteries together.

    Solar might help. but for once a year it's probably not the best option.

    2 six volt or two 12 volt batteries is basically the same price. But at that price range the 2 six volts store more usable power.

    Another option, have you ever considered a small generator? This would probably only be cost effective if you have a need for the same generator at home when not camping.

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