2 - 6 volt batteries or 2 - 12 volt batteries or...

[bigrailer19]

A little information regarding my trailer: Its a 2005 29' eclipse attitude toy hauler. Right now I have 2 6 volt batteries hooked up to my trailer in parallel and the trailer is wired for 2 batteries. They are dead because I left them hooked up for a bit too long I suppose. So I'm in the market to purchase new batteries.

My question is not what is the better option but rather more practical for me. We rarely - actually will never - camp off the grid. The few places we take the trailer all have hook-ups. So really the only time I need the batteries is during travel, maybe to run the fridge, using the electric jack, etc...

Is it possible to run only 1 12 volt, or 2 12 volts rather than the 2 6 volts? This is relatively new to me and I'm not looking for a cheaper alternative, only a practicable solution for my needs.

Thanks in advance!

[MEXICOWANDERER]

Junkyard special to thousand dollar lithium battery this is the perfect way to destroy it...

"I left them hooked up for a bit too long I suppose"

While on the road the tow vehicle replenishes power used for refrigerator, etc. via it's charging system.

I am not fixating on price. My decision is based solely on fitting what is needed not dogmatic reaction to "What Seems To Be Right".

[tpi]

How old are the batteries that are dead? When was the last time they had life in them? I've resurrected a completely dead car battery (sat for over a year dead) -one my smart charger wouldn't charge but my dumb charger would get something going after a few days on it. Then an equalization from the smart charger. It may have been damaged but it was enough to continue to start the car.

I agree-once battery is solved find a way of maintaining it...

[jrnymn7]

I would first try resurrecting those 6's back to life. A result of 100% performance is not needed in this particular case.

Then consider your on-going maintenance options... grid, solar, alternator.

[pianotuna]

Hi Vulcan,

The OP doesn't off the grid at all. Almost any battery will do what the OP needs, even one that, for a boondocker, would be a boat anchor.

Since I use up to 276 amps instantaneous, via an inverter, 12 volt jars fit my particular needs. That would not suit most folks.

Do read what the OP wants to do before condemning sage advice.

Honestly he could probably manage on 8 or 10 rechargeable "D" cells or a lawn tractor battery.

[Vulcan_Rider]

MEXICOWANDERER wrote:
Sounds like the toy hauler will see severe non-use at least as far as the battery is concerned. Unless of course it's way cooler to destroy a hundred forty-dollar battery rather than a twenty dollar battery.

Well it appears that we are seeing this from differing primary objectives.

My objective is to have it work when I need it to and to last as long as possible. You seem to be ignoring most of that and instead focusing on the out of pocket expense at the moment.

An AGM battery, or even a good deep cycle maybe, that is initially fully charged will easily sit for 6 months at a time with no appreciable self-discharge and no significant sulphation AND should last at least 5 years if not abused otherwise.

If you don't mind having to replace the battery maybe every year....or even every 6 months.....then go for the $20 one. I for one have better things to do with my time......which is becoming more valuable as the years pass.

[azrving]

Get a sams or wally marine deep 12 v and a blue seas battery switch so you can eliminate all draws during storage.

[N-Trouble]

Chit happens... If I was stranded somewhere away from AC I would sure want at least one capable battery that could get me through. Prepare for the worst, hope for the best...

[MEXICOWANDERER]

Junkyard's gottem. A dome light shining for three hours or radio playing will tax a battery just as little. Why spend money for nothing? A Power Pedestal Princess needs the same battery as a Honda Civic. A toy hauler has no real hotel loads.

[wa8yxm]

smkettner wrote:
I recommend one 12 volt. Deep cycle trolling from WalMart is fine.

I hope I remember to come back and check for the answer to this but....

I have looked, and looked,and looked and I have NEVER found that battery at Wal*Mart, EVEN IN THE STORES WHERE IT IS CLEARLY PAINTED ON THE WALL THAT THEY HAVE THEM.

Oh, by the way, Under the conditions I do agree with you..

My question: Stock number so I can narrow my search please.

[pianotuna]

Heck, he could even use a dry cell.

[N-Trouble]

They sell $20 batteries??? Are those AA or AAA..LOL

[MEXICOWANDERER]

Sounds like the toy hauler will see severe non-use at least as far as the battery is concerned. Unless of course it's way cooler to destroy a hundred forty-dollar battery rather than a twenty dollar battery.

[Vulcan_Rider]

MEXICOWANDERER wrote:
the cheapest car starting battery even a junkyard battery stands the same chance as the most expensive RV battery.

I don't agree with that at all.
Batteries are damaged from NON-use more than from use.
And old used battery is always a BAD bet for anything.

[MEXICOWANDERER]

Judging from your post the cheapest car starting battery even a junkyard battery stands the same chance as the most expensive RV battery. That way when it flatlines it won't hit you too hard.