Motorhome will not run on batteries

[Burwoods]

This was suppose to be the hickup we worked on this weekend, being new we just thought that turn it on and bam it works. So after figuring out all the steps to bring in and take out slides, we were to tired to tackle the problem we had scheduled. What a learning curve. We have not hooked up water yet, please oh please let that go smoothly.

I guess as long as I never boondock I would be fine, but I want battery power because that is what we want to do.

[AllegroD]

Glad you solved that. Take note of the issue of not letting those batteries get below 12.2 or you will start this again.

[Burwoods]

Canadian Rainbirds wrote:
Thanks for the update. Let us know when (not IF) the next problem comes up!

You might want to post what converter you have. An older style should probably be replaced. Early ones killed batteries if left connected.

Our next thing is not an easy fix, we have some water damage to a part of the floor at the drivers door. For this one, we are letting the professionals take over. Taking it in for an estimate after our next trip out in September.

[Canadian_Rainbi]

Thanks for the update. Let us know when (not IF) the next problem comes up!

You might want to post what converter you have. An older style should probably be replaced. Early ones killed batteries if left connected.

[Burwoods]

I do not like to leave people hanging who have been so nice to help, and I did not finish this post off. New batteries and all problems disappeared. On to the next fix. Thanks again.

[Burwoods]

Dh is working today, but we have two new batteries ready and waiting. Our son brought something up after getting back from inlaws cottage...and they tested the liquid level in batteries, none, my husband said, they did add, but son says they are more then likely toast. As a poster said each time we saw the motorhome it was plugged in. It is old, we know that, but was in complete use last year. She is a little rough around the edges, but we are making her ours. With help from all of you...(Sally) Thanks

[Executive45]

You need new batteries.....Dennis

[BTPO1]

After reading this post as with the others that you have posted recently, it appears that you need to change your batteries and a lot of your problems should go away. JMO

[othertonka]

As in most of the 12 Volt system problems, the first thing to check is the condition of the batteries. If the batteries are discharged any tests that you attempt will not be viable until the batteries are recharged or replaced. So take care of that batteries first and then see if things work. If things still don't work, then do all of the checks posted above. New or charged batteries first, then trouble shoot second.

[blw2]

The store/use switch is the battery disconnect. Press it one way or the other and listen carefully for the click of a relay burried in a cabinet someplace likely near the battery.
If the battery is completely dead you likely wouldn't get the click.
In the "use" position the battery shoudl be connected.

My bet is dead battery.
I'm also in a new MH, had it a week and just yesterday took it in for a warranty battery replacement.
Letting a battery run down lower than 70% to 50% is a killer of batteries.
These things sit on dealers lots and are neglected. Salesmen leave the lights on accidentally when the show them, and they will sit discharged for periods of time.
I knew this going in but was unable to really ceck my battery since they had it plugged in and charging when i showed up for the PDI. In my case, it didn't tak long to confirm that my fears were correct.

[AllegroD]

Take apic of how the bats are connected, so you can reconnect them that way and label your cables. Take the batteries to a local auto parts store and have them tested.

[enblethen]

Before getting back to looking at it: Step back and take a deep breath!
When you get back to it:
start by listening for the relay.
No, clicking could indicate blown fuse in the control circuit. Normally located in battery control center or:
Bad circuit breaker in the line between batteries and battery disconnect.
If you have a test lamp, you could check for power at the battery disconnect relay.

[Burwoods]

enblethen wrote:
That is good that system works when main engine is running. Tells me the charge relay is working.
Did you find the battery control center?
Start tracing the positive lead from the batteries toward the battery disconnect relay. I think you will find a bad circuit breaker.
Did you try cycling the system with someone listening for the relay click?

We have had to abandon the search in the last 30 minutes, we have been hit with a pop up thunder storm. Work tomorrow, but back on the search Tuesday. thank you

[enblethen]

That is good that system works when main engine is running. Tells me the charge relay is working.
Did you find the battery control center?
Start tracing the positive lead from the batteries toward the battery disconnect relay. I think you will find a bad circuit breaker.
Did you try cycling the system with someone listening for the relay click?

[Burwoods]

enblethen wrote:
What happens to the lights when the main engine is running and shore power is disconnected?

They work